Julian Dans ’25 Takes Original Full-Length Musical “Elevation” From Page to Stage
Julian Dans ’25 Takes Original Full-Length Musical “Elevation” From Page to Stage
Julian Dans ’25 has been passionate about music from a young age, writing songs and performing in musical theater since he was eight. Now a Senior at Viewpoint School, he recently showcased his original full-length musical, “Elevation,” in a staged reading in Viewpoint’s Black Box Theater this September.
Inspired by a novel he read in seventh grade, “Elevation” explores themes of human connection, small differences, and the impact of helping others. Julian has spent the past several years developing the project, refining the music and lyrics until he felt it had reached its final form.
“I’ve rewritten almost every song from scratch, some of them twice or three times,” Dans said. “The show that I have now is completely different from what I started with, but it’s the same story that ties it all together.”
With the support of Viewpoint School and a $3,000 grant from the YoungArts Foundation, Julian was able to assemble a professional cast and bring Elevation to life.
“Working with professional actors was incredible. At first, I worried they wouldn’t take me seriously, but they were so supportive and really understood my vision,” shared Dans. “It felt like I was part of something truly professional.”
“Julian has an incredible maturity for someone his age,” said Scott Feldsher, Theatre and Dance Department Chair. “Watching him direct these actors with such confidence and clarity was impressive. He’s truly developed into a young artist ready to take on larger stages.”
This experience allowed Julian to take on multiple roles beyond writing. He directed the production, gave notes to the actors, and managed the entire process from start to finish.
“It was like watching a student step into the professional world for the first time,” Feldsher added. “The actors respected his leadership and approach because he handled the responsibility with such poise.”
Julian views “Elevation” as a significant stepping stone in his creative journey, marking not just the culmination of years of hard work, but also what he hopes will be the beginning of a long and evolving career in the arts.
“I’d love for the show to go further, but even if it doesn’t, it’s something I can show to people in the industry as a representation of what I can do,” Dans said. “It’s been a huge learning experience, and I’m ready to keep growing as a writer.”
“I have no doubt that Julian is destined for big things,” Feldsher said. “He has the talent, the passion, and most importantly the perseverance to succeed. He’s already World Ready.”