Students from Cottonwood Elementary, 5205 Holladay Blvd., performed at a Granite School District board meeting in March. Performers did two numbers from the school’s musical “The Princess and the Pea,” “It's Time for a Wedding” and “Where is My Bride?” This year’s musical included 67 fourth- and fifth-grade students.

“Elementary school is such a safe place to try new things and enjoy new experiences,” said Cottonwood Elementary’s musical director Julie Knight. “It amazes me every year to see these children come early for months and work hard to achieve something. The performances are always marked by an unmistakable pride in their own abilities and joy in the experience.”

Knight said being part of a musical production builds connections when everyone is working toward a common goal. The goal is to make all the students feel important, included and part of the team. 

“There tends to be a different atmosphere at musical practice than in the classroom or on the playground,” she said. “Everyone is more accepting because we are all doing the same thing. And, at the end of the day, I believe every child should have the chance to stand on stage and be applauded.”