A packed forum erupted in cheers recently as 59 talented Erving Elementary students lit up the stage with their spring show choir performance, “Movie, Music, Magic.” From the opening notes of “Happy” to the final chorus of “We’re All In This Together,” the audience was treated to a high-energy showcase of music, movement, and remarkable young talent that left families and staff beaming with pride.
Under the direction of music teacher Russell Gallas and interventionist Katrina McKinney-Grier, the “Triple Arts” after-school show choir has grown from a small group of 30 students last fall into a full-fledged production, featuring second through fourth graders singing, dancing, acting and - most importantly - growing as performers.
“We’ve created a culture where the students want to sing and perform,” said Gallas. “Last year, many of them were nervous to even sing in front of their peers.” Now they’re auditioning for solos and working on their craft outside of rehearsal. It’s amazing to see.”
“When we first started, we had no idea how impactful this after-school program would be,” said McKinney-Grier. “We are creating an environment where students feel empowered and enthusiastic to express themselves creatively—whether through singing, dancing, acting, or public speaking. This after-school program not only nurtures artistic expression but also helps students build confidence, develop communication skills, and gain a deeper appreciation for collaboration and teamwork.”
The club meets three times a week for an hour, and the dedication shows. This spring’s performance featured group numbers like “Happy” from Despicable Me, a show-stopping medley from Wicked, and a crowd favorite - “We’re All In This Together” from High School Musical.
In addition to group numbers, the show featured solo performances: “My Once Upon a Time” from the movie Descendants 3 and “Kiss Me” from the movie She’s All That - two stand-out moments that showcased the individual talent and confidence of Erving’s young performers.
The program puts on two performances a year. Gallas coordinates the music and vocal arrangements while Grier, who has ballet training, designs all the choreography. The team modeled the club’s format after the Young Americans, a professional music outreach group known for its themed performances and workshops.
“We wanted to give our students that same experience - learning music and movement, working together, and performing with confidence,” said Gallas.
It’s more than just entertainment. Gallas notes that Triple Arts is helping students build foundational skills in music literacy, performance, and collaboration - skills they’ll carry into the upper elementary and middle school programs. “They’re following along with sheet music, understanding timing and harmony - this is laying real groundwork,” he said.
The show choir has also helped bring the Erving community closer together. “The response from families and staff has been incredible,” Gallas added. “Everyone loves seeing what their students bring to the stage. We’ve built a community that wants to perform, and it’s all smiles.”
As for what’s next, Gallas and McKinney-Grier are already thinking ahead to the fall performance. But for now, they - and the students - are basking in the magic of a successful show.
“It’s about the kids and seeing them succeed,” said Gallas. “I couldn’t be more proud.”