Soda City Studios 2025 Summer youth production
Set Sail on an Unforgettable Journey!
Embark on an unforgettable journey this summer with Soda City Theatre Company’s Youth Production of Moana Jr.! This heartwarming, adventurous musical celebrates the power of courage, self-discovery, and community. Join us as we bring this beloved Disney tale to life through vibrant performances, stunning choreography, and music that transports you to the islands of Polynesia.
What Makes Our Program Special?
Our Summer Studio Production is more than just a camp or class—it’s a real theatre experience from auditions through closing night. Participants are guaranteed a role and will learn by actively rehearsing and performing under the guidance of seasoned theatre professionals. The program focuses on:
- Teamwork and supporting one another.
- Professionalism and working hard.
- Learning through hands-on experience.
This production offers a supportive environment where young people can explore the magic of theatre, grow their skills, and build lifelong memories—all while having fun.
Why Moana Jr.?
Moana Jr. tells the inspiring story of Moana, a strong-willed young woman who sets sail across the Pacific to save her village and discover the truth about her heritage. Alongside the demigod Maui, she embarks on an epic adventure that celebrates Polynesian culture and teaches us all to harness the power within.
Kids will not only perform but also learn about Pacific Island culture, including music, dance, and storytelling. The experience will conclude with an exciting island-themed cast party!
Volunteer Opportunities
Soda City Theatre Company is a non-profit organization, and we rely on volunteers to make each production a success. Family members are invited to help with:
- Ushering and concessions.
- Set building and painting.
- Props and costumes.
- Backstage support, dressing rooms, and publicity.
We look forward to building a supportive and collaborative team with your family this summer!
Everything You Need to Know
Production Title:
Moana Jr.
Directed By:
Debra E. Leopard
Choreography By:
Christie Burgess
Music Direction By:
John Norris
Who Can Enroll:
Ages 5 - 19
Rehearsal Location:
Brookland United Methodist Church
541 Meeting St.
West Columbia, SC
Performance Location:
Brookland United Methodist Church
541 Meeting St.
West Columbia, SC
Ticket Information:
Coming Soon!
Performance Dates:
July 24, 25 @ 7:30pm
July 26 @ 3:00pm and 7:30pm
Contact Us:
For inquiries, email us at info@sodacitytheatre.com
Soda City Studios Summer Youth Production Staff
Director Debra Leopard
Choreographer Christie Burgess
Music Director John Norris
With over 45 years of theatre experience, Debra E. Leopard is a true force in the world of performance and education. As an accomplished actress, director, and educator, Debra has directed more than 100 productions and performed in over 150 shows. Her extensive expertise includes professional voice-over work, improv performance, and even playwriting.
Debra holds a BFA in Acting and an MFA in Directing, with over 40 years dedicated to teaching at universities and modeling agencies. She’s also the founder of three successful children’s theatre programs in the Midlands, where she’s inspired countless young performers.
Passionate about every aspect of theatre—onstage and behind the scenes—Debra’s leadership promises to bring our Summer Youth Production to life in extraordinary ways.
Music Director John Norris
Choreographer Christie Burgess
Music Director John Norris
John is excited to join the Soda City Theatre Company for this summer’s production! With extensive experience as a music director and performer, his credits include Nunsense Jamboree, 9 to 5, Little Shop of Horrors, Hairspray, Gilligan‘s Island: The Musical, Oliver, The Diary of Adam & Eve, Footloose, Rock of Ages, The Addams Family, and Mary Poppins.
As an actor, John has appeared in productions such as Gilligan’s Island: The Musical (Alien), The King and I (Kralahome), Bull in a China Shop (Kramer), and The Diary of Adam & Eve (Serpent).
A graduate of Furman University and the University of South Carolina with degrees in music theory, John currently serves as the pianist at North Trenholm Baptist Church in Columbia. Outside of the arts, he works as a claims analyst for Palmetto GBA.
John would like to thank God for His continuous blessings and extends his gratitude to the patrons and supporters of the arts who make these productions possible.
Choreographer Christie Burgess
Choreographer Christie Burgess
Choreographer Christie Burgess
Christie Burgess is the proud owner of Dance Elements Academy in Batesburg-Leesville, SC, where she inspires students of all ages with her passion for dance and the performing arts. With over 20 years of teaching experience, Christie has choreographed and taught a variety of styles and served as Associate Choreographer for productions like Seussical Jr. and The Wizard of Oz: Youth Edition.
A graduate of the University of South Carolina Aiken, Christie earned her degree in Communications with a minor in Fine Arts. During her college years, she choreographed and participated in numerous theater productions and served as captain of the USCA Dance Team in her junior and senior years.
Outside of the studio, Christie is a proud mom to three children, who are active in dance, sports, and musical theater. She is thrilled to bring her creativity and expertise to this year’s Summer Youth Production, sharing her love for the arts with the next generation of performers.