ELK GROVE, CA (MPG) - Musical Mayhem Productions (MMP) is once again recreating some of America’s favorite theater shows for Elk Grove audiences. The sweet fantasy of Disney’s “Beauty and the Beast” and the improbable comedy “Sister Act” will entrance those who love live theater.

“Beauty and the Beast” will be presented by students ages 6 through 12 years old on Sept. 13 and 14 in the Consumnes Oaks High School Performing Arts Theater. Evening shows are at 7 with a Sunday matinee at 2 p.m. 

“Sister Act” stars advanced students ages 13 through 19 in the Sheldon High School Performing Arts Theater on Sept. 27 and 28 and again on Oct. 5 and 6. Evening shows are at 7 and Sunday matinee is 2 p.m.

Tickets for both productions are available at www.mmpkids.com/tickets.

Musical Mayhem Productions is a nonprofit performing arts organization for students ages 4 through 19. Since its inception in 2012, when the co-founders Anne-Marie Pringle and Bryce McDill decided to take a chance on such an uncertain project, the idea has flourished. They have now grown out of their original building and into a larger facility. They currently have 130 students just in the Master Academy and 50 in the Apprentice Academy producing 20 shows a year. In addition they have 1,400 cast members performing in shows throughout the year in numerous venues.

Musical Mayhem Productions has garnered a wall full of awards. For outstanding acting, directing, costuming and choreography, Musical Mayhem Productions has been named Best Of in numerous Elly Awards and was presented The Iris Award for Performing Arts from the City of Elk Grove Arts Commission. The organization has been recognized nationally at the Junior Theater Festival and is a pilot company for new musicals not yet released to the public.

Musical Mayhem Productions offers plays not just in its hometown of Elk Grove but in theaters in Sacramento and the surrounding region. Registered auditions are open to young theater hopefuls and not limited to academy members.

“By the end of October, 500 kids will have performed in eight plays,” said Edie Sabia, Musical Mayhem Productions volunteer outreach spokesperson.

Although the organization is primarily a musical theater, Musical Mayhem Productions students are taught the basics of vocal and dance disciplines as well as backstage skills such as costume and set design. 

“During their time working in theater, students learn teamwork, discipline, work ethic and gain confidence,” said Sabia, who has grandchildren in the program. “It is an alternative to sports programs.”

Musical Mayhem Productions is good for the Elk Grove economy, Sabia said, because parents and family members from other areas bring their children to classes and to the shows. Many come from Stockton, Carmichael, West Sacramento and neighboring cities.

 “They shop and dine in restaurants while they are here,” she said. 

For more information about Musical Mayhem Productions, visit mayhem productions.com.