Middle school is a grand time to explore. Drama is a great activity to discover.

The cast and crew of Warwick Middle School's "Schoolhouse Rock Live! Jr." is made up of students who are relatively new to the genre of theater. But what they lack in experience they more than make up for with energy, enthusiasm and curiosity.

"Students in middle school are starting to make decisions for themselves," said Justin Droegemueller, who, along with Allison Fund, is co-directing "Schoolhouse Rock Live! Jr." "Some build their own characters on stage. We want to give them freedom. For some, it's their first show; others have professional experience. It's amazing to see them grow through the two years. Some are so reserved. Some go from being really introverted to the exact opposite. We want to make sure these kids get to try everything in middle school."

Those budding artists and their support staff will perform "Schoolhouse Rock Live! Jr." on Friday, March 1, at 7 p.m. and Saturday, March 2, at 1 p.m. in the auditorium of the Warwick Middle School, 401 Maple St., Lititz.

"It's an educational show and there's learning built into it," said Droegemueller. "Our kids learn to articulate, to pronounce, to project. They also find friendship and acceptance in drama. They're being exposed to drama at a high level right away. If they become broader, more well-rounded people, what more could you hope for?"

Warwick Middle School's production of "Schoolhouse Rock Live! Jr." features a cast of 30 student actors and actresses, as well as a backstage crew of about 10 more students. There are also about 15 parent volunteers involved.

"On the days of the show, the energy with the cast is through the roof," said Droegemueller. "They're talking to everyone. There's a buzz going on backstage. We try to get (the students) focused on the material, and they always rise to the occasion. Last year, we had two packed houses."

The cast incluces eighth-graders Collin Rosebrook as Tom, Carter Geesaman as George, Jo Bender as Dori, Lydia Crowther as Shulie, Liv Campbell as Joe, Capri Shoemaker as Dina, Alex Kofroth as Elvis and Kayla Stuckey as Janet.

"I love that Shulie can be played as a light and bubbly personality," said Lydia. "She matches me as a person really well. Being part of the show is so much fun. I think adults will remember the songs from their childhood and kids will think it's all really amusing. We have worked hard to bring educational songs to life."

Preparation for the performances has included three days of rehearsals per week for two months, or about 20 total rehearsals. Each week an enhancement has been added - lights, sound, costumes and other technical elements - all leading up to the final dress rehearsal on the Thursday before the shows.

"I've done this show in the past and it's a lot of fun," said Fund. "We were looking at some things, and it jumped out at us. Warwick has such a strong arts program, as far as music goes. A lot of (students) have just a natural vocal ability. You just have to adapt and be flexible. It's really an ensemble piece."

The musical play is based on the 1970s "Schoolhouse Rock," a collection of animated music videos created to present short lessons on English, math, history and geography to young learners.

"A lot of the songs you'll remember," said Droegemueller. "It's Tom's first day of teaching, and he's trying to figure out how to be accepted. He draws on the old songs to be accepted. It's a prop-heavy show. A lot of props are used to represent language."

Tickets for "Schoolhouse Rock Live! Jr." will be available on a presale basis on Thursday, Feb. 29, from 6 to 7 p.m. in the lobby of the Warwick Middle School auditorium, as well as at the door one hour prior to both performances.