Disney Musicals Program Brings Free Productions to Rhode Island Schools

It's time to raise the curtain on some very special performances in the Ocean State.

Starting in January 2026, five Rhode Island schools will begin working on their productions of Disney musicals.

Acquiring the rights to perform a Disney production can be pricey, but for these lucky local schools, it will cost them nothing as part of the Disney Musicals in Schools Program.

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Established in 2010, Disney Musicals in Schools is a way "to create sustainable theater programs in under-resourced public elementary schools."

Winning Schools

• Achievement First Iluminar Mayoral Academy Elementary School, Cranston
• Governor Christopher DelSesto Middle School, Providence
• Joseph Jenks Middle School, Pawtucket
• Tiogue Elementary School, Coventry
• Veazie Street Elementary School, Providence

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What Do the Schools Get?

In addition to the performance rights, each school will receive education materials and guidance from two teaching artists from Providence Performing Arts Center.

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From directing to choreography, music and more, the assistance and mentorship from PPAC will aid the schools in producing a 30-minute Disney KIDS or 60-minute Disney JR. musical.

Program Goals

1. Create sustainable musical theater programs in public elementary schools.
2. Provide school faculty with the training and tools necessary to support student performance and production, and to empower them to do so.
3. Develop a critical awareness and appreciation of the arts within schools.
4. Develop a strong community including cultural organizations, students, parents, faculty, staff, and neighbors.
5. Expose students and school teachers to the wide spectrum of skills that are developed when producing a piece of musical theater, including: critical thinking, problem solving, ensemble building, communication, self-confidence, and interpersonal skills.

To cap off the experience, the winning schools will get the opportunity to perform one number from their show on stage at the PPAC during a Student Share Celebration for friends, family, students, teachers and community.