CHARLESTON, W.Va. -- Every year since 1998, Boone County Schools has sponsored theatrical productions by STAGE, the Scholastic Team for Arts and Greater Enrichment. It is made up of Boone County students and teachers.

STAGE finishes its spring production, "Disney's Aladdin Jr." with a performance for Scott High School freshmen and sophomores Friday.

The director is Chelsea Price, a music teacher at Madison Middle School who was part of STAGE when she was in school. Helping her organize the production are Robin Bunch Bailey, a Boone County 4-H agent, and Renee Farmer of Renee's Dance Studio in Madison.

Auditions were in early March, and a decision was made on what play would be performed. Soon after, 22 students ranging from fifth to 12th grade began rehearsing the production.

"In today's world, it's hard to find young people who will commit time and effort to a production. We have a wonderful cast, but more importantly, a great group of emerging artists that are dedicated to the program as a team," Price said.

This is not the first year for many STAGE participants. The production has become something they look forward to each year and will continue to take part in.

"It helps kids learn to express themselves, be outgoing and be a part of something bigger than themselves." said Brittany Whitt, a 16-year old from Scott High School who has been part of STAGE for four years. She was cast as a narrator in this production.