HERCULES JR. To Be Piloted By Beacon Performing Arts Center

Beacon Performing Arts Center (BPAC) has been selected to pilot a production of Disney's Hercules Jr. Having this opportunity means BPAC is one of only a few theatre companies in the country chosen to premiere a brand-new "Junior" version of a Disney musical. Specially adapted for student performers, this production will help shape the show before its official release. Representatives from Disney will be in attendance to evaluate elements such as pacing, music, and storytelling, making adjustments based on what they observe.

Disney's Hercules JR. is a high-energy stage adaptation of the 1997 animated film. The story follows Hercules as he discovers his demigod heritage, battles the villainous Hades, and finds love with Megara. This lively production features witty, updated dialogue, vibrant sets, stunning costumes, and a dynamic score by Alan Menken, including fan-favorite songs such as "Go the Distance," "A Star Is Born," "The Gospel Truth," and "Zero to Hero."

The cast features students from across the Hudson Valley in grades 6 through 10. Ben Fury stars as Hercules, alongside Isabella Felidi as Megara and Emory Rowe as Hades. The Muses are portrayed by Milana Rivera, McKenna Griffin, Gianna Joachim, Mira Sen, and Giana Rodriguez.

The production is led by BPAC's co-founders: Jake Vander Linden (Director), Tim Grady (Choreographer), and Kate Vander Linden (Music Director), with costumes designed by Elizabeth Hamboussi.

"Piloting a brand-new Junior musical has been a goal of ours since we founded BPAC nearly 10 years ago," said Kate Vander Linden. "Being able to collaborate with Disney is truly a dream come true, and Hercules JR. is such a perfect adaptation of the film. We were honored to be invited to pilot the show after a Disney representative saw our students perform at the Junior Theater Festival in Sacramento in February 2025 and was so impressed by their talent that they said they wanted to collaborate in the future!"