Performing Arts
"There is that smaller world which is the stage, and that larger stage which is the world."
Isaac Goldberg
At PJS, the Performing Arts are an integral part of our commitment to fostering confident, compassionate young people both on stage and beyond. Our fall play and spring musical are more than just performances—they are an imaginative journey that fosters joy and engagement. Young actors enhance their creativity, resilience, and empathy as they step into different roles and collaborate to bring a story to life. From auditions to opening night, students develop essential communication skills, learn to take risks, and build the self-confidence that is essential for success.
A Thriving Stage for New Leaders: The PJS Fall Production
As our fall production proudly enters its third year in the 2025-26 school year, we celebrate the remarkable growth and vibrancy of the performing arts at Princeton Junior School. Open to students in the 5/6 Suite, the fall play offers young performers a unique opportunity to shine in a supportive, creative environment. In recent years, the PJS Players have shown their imagination and talent in performances of Kid Frankenstein and Robin Hood. This fall, we are especially excited to introduce Shakespeare with a production of Macbeth in collaboration with McCarter Theater.
PJS Players Present, the Spring Musical!
Each spring, PJS students in Grades 1- 6 have the opportunity to participate in our spring musical. Whether performing onstage, designing and painting sets, managing audio and lighting, or working as part of the backstage crew, every role is valued and vital to the show’s success. The journey from audition to opening night requires continuous practice and effort over time, reinforcing the ethic of excellence that we strive to achieve throughout our programs. Our young actors build essential communication skills, collaborate, take risks and develop self confidence. Check out our teaser videos of past productions below
The PJS Choir
Every student at PJS is a member of the PJS choir. Participating in choir offers students a fun and engaging way to develop important skills while fostering a sense of belonging and community. Singing together builds confidence, improves listening and memory, and strengthens language development while teaching teamwork and responsibility. At Princeton Junior School, we have two choirs that perform throughout the year, a Lower School Choir for students in Kindergarten - Grade 2, and an Upper School Choir for students in Grades 3-6. The choir sings songs that promote cultural celebration, joy, and family traditions. Through music, students can express themselves creatively and experience the satisfaction of working toward a shared goal.
Open Mic
Parent Play
The Grumpy King: A PJS Parent Production
In a faraway land lives the Grumpy King. Neither his fabulous family or fanciest courtiers can make him happy. If the King is not happy no one is happy. What will finally put a smile on the Grumpy King's face and save the kingdom from gloom?
Originally written by our school’s founder in collaboration with her students some 40 years ago, The Grumpy King is back at PJS and fast becoming a fun annual tradition. In early spring, a group of risk-taking, adventurous parents of students from the Reggio Class through Grade 2 volunteer to bring this charming play to life with a new twist, rewriting and performing their own version of the story.
This heartwarming, hilarious show not only honors our school’s creative roots but also fosters meaningful connections among families. Our youngest students take great delight in watching their parents on stage, having fun and being brave. The end result is a completely original show that celebrates community, imagination, and joy
