The Gowanda Middle School Musical is a highly regarded annual event that has been a cornerstone of the Middle School for 50 years. This beloved tradition began in 1977 under the vision of retired music educator, Mrs. Cynthia Ripley. Her passion for musical theater and innovative teaching approaches not only shaped our local program but also made history. Mrs. Ripley was approached by Music Theatre International to help originate the very first Broadway Junior show, Annie Junior. Gowanda Middle School became one of the first schools in the nation to develop, produce, and pilot a Broadway Junior musical, paving the way for what is now known worldwide as the Broadway Junior Collection. Mrs. Ripley continues to share her expertise as a Master Teacher with iTheatrics, training educators across the globe.

Today, under the direction of Mr. Adam Bett, the Gowanda Middle School Musical is thriving more than ever as we celebrate our 50th anniversary season. Each year, casts of no fewer than 120 students bring to life unforgettable characters, vibrant settings, and meaningful stories filled with lessons that last a lifetime. Our cast is proudly drawn from our 5th–8th grade chorus program: all 5th and 6th grade chorus members are automatically included in the musical, while 7th and 8th graders audition for their roles. Every actor is a chorus member, ensuring they develop the vocal foundation needed to succeed on stage.

We are equally proud that our productions are entirely student-run. From lights and sound to stage crew and student directors, both middle and high school students take ownership of every aspect of the performance. This collaboration fosters leadership, responsibility, and pride that extend far beyond the stage.

The success of the GMS Musical rests on the combined talents and dedication of our students, teachers, parents, administrators, and community. It is this shared spirit that has made the musical one of the most attended events in our district year after year—and why, for the past 50 years, it has remained a defining tradition of Gowanda Middle School.