If you’ve ever been part of the audience for a school event involving little kids, then you know what that entails for tiny performers. School shows are exciting for kids and adults, but you can definitely expect lots of smiles, laughter, and cute uh-oh moments.
There is lots of excitement, but as soon as the show begins, you can spot who’s who. Always present is at least one zoned-out daydreamer, a startled line-forgetter, the oblivious dancer, a clown, and a show stealer.
Show stealers are easy to spot by their Broadway-worthy displays. When it came time for her pre-school graduation performance, 4-year-old Sophia was right on cue.
All the kids were lined up on stage to sing How Far I’ll Go from Disney’s Moana, dressed to the nines and ready for their close-ups. As this video cranks up, you’ll notice a spirited little girl in the center. She is giving her all while singing along to the tune, with the same level of passion that kids before her devoted to the undying Let It Go.
Nothing here spells startled. Nothing here spells oblivious. And Sophia is not fooling around. Surrounded by other cuties like her and teachers singing backup in the last row, she is giving L-I-F-E to this show! I don’t think people were ready.
Watch as she gestures with her arms and legs, stomps her feet, and makes the frowning face that only serious singers do.
According to an interview with ABC News, Sophia’s mom Michelle said the songs and her daughter’s enthusiasm were a surprise:
“She’s usually spunky and has a quirky personality but that was something else even for her. And right before the graduation when it was just about time to walk, she said, ‘I don’t want to do it. I’m so scared. There’s so many people in the audience.’”
Something about that music struck a note for the little girl and the scariness melted away. You know what it’s like when your song comes on and you can’t resist the feeling. You’ve done it in your car, your shower, and kitchen. You rock on without inhibition!
The class had already sung two songs from Zootopia before this one, but Moana’s jam was like flipping a switch on for Sophia. Her mother said she was cool and collected during those first ones, but then she turned into a new person when the special song came on to close out the show.
Moana is one Sophia’s favorite movies, and she shared that the musical performance was her favorite part of the whole ceremony because it made her happy. Who can’t relate to that?
After being posted on Facebook, the video went viral, racking up over 18 million views on the social media site. The family had no idea it would garner such a huge reaction, but the greatest reward Sophia received for ripping the stage was a cookie cake from a family friend.
It’s a fitting gift! And who knows? Maybe all that confidence and fire could have Sophia being one of Disney’s next big stars. We wouldn’t be surprised.
What do you think of Sophia’s adorable performance? Which song makes you want to belt it out like a rock star and gesture like Sophia?