A seventh grader who just might be on his way to being a future Broadway star has been named a Broadway Junior Student of the Month for November by Music Theatre International.
Duane Patrick, Jr. from Flat Rock Middle was nominated for the honor by his chorus teacher, Dana Lamb-Schaubroeck. Duane was selected from hundreds of applicants from across the nation who have demonstrated a desire for learning and growing through musical theatre, and have shown exemplary qualities of dedication, passion, leadership, and spirit.
Duane was first introduced to musical theatre last year when chorus teacher Lamb-Schaubroeck announced that they would be performing the musical, “Lion King Jr.,” for the school’s music theatre festival. He says he felt from the start that it was going to be something of interest to him.
“I automatically started to enjoy the script and knew that this experience was going to be fun. Being a part of this musical, I have decided that acting and performing is something that I am going to continue to pursue in my life,” Duane says.
Although he had no prior experience with musical theatre, his teacher says he brought so much energy and enthusiasm to the audition that he was cast for the lead role of Simba, both young and old.
“I could not have been more pleased that he was our Simba in Flat Rock’s first ever presentation of the ‘Lion King Jr.’ He is one of the most humble and outgoing, yet respectful and talented students that I have ever taught,” says Lamb-Schaubroeck. “He is a dynamic and ambitious young man, and yet he remains teachable and focuses on making every aspect of his performance the best it can be.”
Being the lead in the musical did not stop Duane from taking on other responsibilities with the production. He also helped paint sets and organized Facetime rehearsals with other cast members on the weekends.
When he has free time at school, Duane can be found rehearsing in the chorus room. His commitment and dedication to music and acting are mirrored in his academic endeavors. He maintains excellent grades in all subject areas and is a peer leader among his classmates.
Duane seems to be well on his way to a successful acting career. In addition to this latest honor, Duane won a full scholarship from Music Theatre International to attend its Camp Broadway this past summer where he studied with Jennifer Holliday, a singer and actress who started her career in Broadway musicals, and later became a successful recording artist.
