The transition to kindergarten marks a significant milestone in a child’s life, often representing their first foray into a world away from the familiar comforts of home and family. It’s a time of new experiences, from deciphering the alphabet’s mysteries to navigating the exciting, sometimes daunting, world of making new friends. This pivotal year serves as the compelling backdrop for Disney’s latest musical series, “Kindergarten: The Musical,” a heartwarming tale chronicling the adventures of five-year-old Berti and her classmates as they embark on their kindergarten journey.
From Tiny Moments to Big Emotions: Capturing the Essence of Kindergarten
“We were all kids once,” muses Michelle Lewis, one of the show’s creators and executive producers, in an exclusive interview with Billboard. This shared experience of childhood forms the bedrock of the series, drawing inspiration from the genuine emotions and experiences of kindergarteners.
The Power of Authenticity: Real Kids, Real Stories
Echoing Lewis’ sentiment, her fellow series creator and executive producer, Charlton Pettus, emphasizes the authenticity at the heart of “Kindergarten: The Musical.” “We’re both parents,” he shares. “Real kids are so much more interesting than most people. We’re telling super fun stories about people we know extraordinarily well, having raised bunches of them.” This deep understanding of the intricacies of childhood allows the creators to portray the world of kindergarten with remarkable relatability.
A Musical Tapestry Woven with Heart and Humor
The creative team behind "Kindergarten: The Musical" poses for a photo.
Charlton Pettus, Kay Hanley, Dan Petty, Michelle Lewis, and Tom Warburton. Courtesy of Disney
Lewis and Pettus, a seasoned creative duo with decades of experience as producers, songwriters, and musicians, bring their considerable talents to the forefront in “Kindergarten: The Musical.” Lewis, a two-time Emmy Award winner, boasts an impressive portfolio, having written for renowned artists such as Cher, Amy Grant, and Little Mix. Her expertise extends to the realm of animated children’s shows, with credits including “Doc McStuffins,” “Vampirina,” and “Bubble Guppies.”
Pettus, since 2000, has been an integral part of Tears for Fears as a touring guitarist, producer, and co-writer. His musical collaborations also include prominent names like Hilary Duff, Lindsay Lohan, and Selena Gomez. “Kindergarten: The Musical” marks his inaugural venture into television, a transition he welcomes with open arms.
Finding Joy in the Journey: From Pop Songwriting to Television
“It’s so much better,” Pettus remarks, comparing his television experience to his time in pop songwriting. “In the darkest days of pop songwriting, [Lewis and I] were in that period where the mission was to write songs that sounded like they were about something, but assiduously avoided ever actually being about something. So, I think we got a little burnt on the chase.”
The allure of television and film, with its emphasis on storytelling, beckoned the duo. “TV and film seemed much more fun, so we started dabbling in that,” Pettus reveals. He recounts pitching several shows, with “Kindergarten: The Musical” initially conceived as a “back pocket pitch.”
“We thought it was clever and kind of fun,” Pettus admits. However, as they ventured out and shared their ideas, “Kindergarten: The Musical” struck a chord, resonating with audiences in a way their other projects hadn’t.
Music to Our Ears: A Celebration of Music’s Unifying Power
True to its title, “Kindergarten: The Musical” embraces music as a powerful narrative tool, seamlessly weaving it into the fabric of the story. Lewis describes the series as a “love letter to music,” highlighting its ability to connect with audiences on a visceral level.
“We have a song called ‘I Want to Go Home’ in the show,” Lewis illustrates. “It’s about being in school and they miss home, they miss their dog, whatever.” She underscores the significance of these seemingly small moments in the lives of children, moments amplified and validated through the power of music.
“What would seem like a tiny moment, for a little kid is actually a big moment, and big enough for them to sing,” Lewis elaborates. “I hope that the show makes kids feel seen and heard, celebrated and comfortable with expressing those things, those fears and anxieties and joys and all that stuff through music.”
Finding Resonance in Shared Experiences
Pettus concludes with a poignant observation, “Why do songs make us cry? Because we recognize ourselves. It resonates.” He believes that music possesses a unique ability to tap into our shared human experiences, allowing us to see ourselves reflected in the stories and emotions conveyed.
“I think we just want to do the same thing with kids,” Pettus affirms. “We want them to recognize themselves, see themselves, and see that it works out, that it’s all okay.”
Tune In and Relive the Magic of Kindergarten
Ready to relive the wonder and excitement of kindergarten through the eyes of Berti and her classmates? “Kindergarten: The Musical” is now available to stream on Disney Jr. and Disney+.
Don’t miss out on the musical magic! Be sure to check out an exclusive clip of the song “First Day” below, courtesy of Billboard.
What’s Next for the Kindergarten Crew?
As fans eagerly immerse themselves in the world of “Kindergarten: The Musical,” speculation abounds regarding the future adventures of Berti and her friends. Will they conquer their fears on the playground? Will they master the art of sharing and discover the true meaning of friendship?
Share your thoughts and predictions in the comments below! We can’t wait to hear what you think of this heartwarming new series.
