Her cast of 25 will range from age 6 to 18. Jonathan Eisely, 16, plays Michael Jackson. "He's been dancing for seven years and does all the moves," she said.
"Our kids are really excited, and last year they even performed in the rain," she said. "Make-A-Wish is one of the charities we haven't given to, so the kids realize they're helping kids and they love doing any performance that's for a good cause.''
Middle school students Lauren Wulf and Rachel Englander will sell hot chocolate, popcorn and water as usual and sales go to Make-A-Wish.
Newman plans on using multicolor laser projections this year, but he doesn't want to give away all his secrets. "I want my new animatronics to be a surprise," he said. Last year, a talking, disembodied head was particularly popular with the kids.
A former sound and light designer for rock concerts, resorts and nightclubs, Newman is in his element when the shows start. "The economy is down and this takes their mind off their problems for a little while," he said. "Come and have a great time and donate whatever you can to Make-A-Wish."
