Olivia Newton John, roller skates, and feathered hair: Who could ask for more?

In an effort to breathe new life into the ’80s cult classic movie memory, students at John Winthrop Middle School (JWMS) will showcase their rendition of the musical Xanadu this weekend, Friday and Saturday, April 1 and 2, complete with a myriad of puffy clouds, unicorns, and songs.

Rehearsing since they were cast back in November, the 60 7th- and 8th-grade performers have worked to hone their musical skills as well as a bevy of intricate dance moves, costume changes, lighting effects, and more.

JWMS para-professional and co-director Sean O’Leary said Xanadu was chosen for its comedic content, large cast size, and funky dance moves. He said the kids have all been working very hard and he hopes everyone comes out to support these young actresses and actors.

“This is a very enthusiastic bunch of kids and they have put everything they have into this show,” O’Leary said. “It’s very inspiring to see them work hard every day after school. These kids are having a great time and it shows when they are on stage.”

A member of the musical’s rock band the Tubes, 8th-grader Sophia Malli, who also performed in last year’s show Once Upon a Mattress, said she is having a great time this year being part of this special show.

“It is really cool,” said Malli. “We get to experience a lot of different kinds of performing in the show and a lot of singing, more than we get in chorus, and I really like that. It’s a really good experience and I would encourage people to come to see the show because it is very funny, it has a lot of catchy songs in it, and the costumes are great.”

Malli’s co-cast member 7th-grader Elio Perez-Wilson, who plays Cyclops in addition to being in Tubes, said his favorite part of the musical production is the music—“It’s the best.” His favorite song is “Strange Magic” because of the lyrics.

“The whole show is great and all the music is really good,” said Perez-Wilson. “We do need more boys in the show, so hopefully next year a lot more boys will try out. It’s a really fun experience and, although sometimes it’s hard, during the last few weeks, when we are rehearsing every day, to get our homework done it’s worth it. It’s a great show.”

Tickets for the show are $10 for adults and $5 for students and seniors. Tickets can be reserved by calling John Winthrop Junior High School at 860-526-9546. Show times are April 1 and 2 at 7 p.m.