Calvary Chapel Christian School brings “The Prince of Egypt” to the West Coast stage
DOWNEY — Calvary Chapel Christian School brought a major theatrical milestone to Downey earlier this month, hosting the West Coast’s first-ever stage production of The Prince of Egypt from May 1-3.
Based on the biblical story of Exodus and inspired by the beloved DreamWorks animated film, The Prince of Egypt tells the sweeping story of Moses, the parting of the Red Sea, and the Israelites' journey from slavery to freedom.
The production featured a live professional orchestra, elaborate staging, and a cast of more than 100 students, with even more working behind the scenes on lighting, cameras, and set design.
“We like to choose musicals that are large enough to feature all of our very talented students here, and Prince of Egypt has numerous roles for the ensemble,” said Dr. Kristina Young-Goodner, assistant principal and director of choral music at the school. “We also like to choose productions that have powerful messages in them to share with our audiences, and Prince of Egypt shares the message of deliverance, which many people need to hear today.”
The school stages a musical production once every two years, giving students a limited but intensive time to rehearse. Students began learning the music in January, with months of preparation culminating in a moving and memorable performance.
Young-Goodner, a Calvary Chapel alumna herself, described the experience as deeply rewarding.
“I’m incredibly amazed and awed at the God-given talents and abilities by both my students and staff members around me,” she said. “It is beyond amazing to be able to create art and tell such a powerful message of deliverance with this cast and crew, and it’s a moment we all will cherish to be able to do this.”
The production drew full audiences throughout its run and was praised for its ambitious scale and spiritual depth, reinforcing the school’s commitment to artistic excellence and faith-based education.