PLAYING THROUGH THE TURNAROUND

In an effort to get grown-ups to listen to them, middle schoolers do something extraordinary.

So does Larsen, in her debut—by introducing characters so distinct and alive that each sparkles and yet becomes much more as they together tackle the challenging task of asserting their right to a say in their own educations. Drawn together by their common devotion to twice-weekly Jazz Lab, five eighth grade musicians are dismayed when grizzled, legendary adviser Mr. Lewis is replaced by random subs as rumors of budget cuts swirl. Popular efforts to drum up signatures for a petition lead to disturbing revelations that cuts have been quietly paring away elective activities for years. But finding a bundle of signed petitions chucked in the garbage unread and seeing students’ concerns waved off by the school board really motivate the quintet. Enter professional problem student Quentin “Quagmire” Tiarello, bringing his gift for alienating powers that be, a wonderful ongoing duel with a certain English teacher who (to his discomfiture) really sees him, and a surprising level of technical savvy with light and sound boards—all of which prove invaluable in setting up an inspired, foot-stomping, showstopping, thoroughly unauthorized musical climax. Does it create magically sweeping changes? Maybe not…but more people join the youths in listening to one another, and that’s a worthy result. Mr. Lewis’ reappearance adds a final sweet, poignant note. Main characters read White; names cue ethnic diversity in the supporting cast.

A magnificent medley of cogent themes and memorable moments.