I'm Moving On

Hello everyone,
My time is coming to an end with the Lion King. It's hard to believe that almost a year and a half has past. I will be leaving on Sunday, April 24, 2011. I have really enjoyed my stay at Lion King, but I can't wait to see what's coming next. If you want to see my performance, my schedule is posted. Thank you to everyone who has supported me so far. From here, the sky is the limit. TTYL
Alphonso

Saying Goodbye to Shannon

Yesterday was one of the hardest days in the young life of our son. He had to say farewell to one of his friends, Shannon Skye Tavarez. She and Alphonso performed together in his Broadway debut and he will always have that special connection with her. Her smile could brighten up the cloudiest of days and her talent was just incredible. We are praying for her family and hope that you will do the same. If you are 18 or older, please register to be a bone marrow donor. If you are a child, talk to your parents, aunts, uncles, teachers, or any adult about registering to become a donor. Help save someone's life. If you would like, please leave a comment as I will be giving them to Shannon's mother. And remember,
"JUST ONE SWAB WILL DO THE JOB".
Respectfully,
Kathy and Alphonso Jones, Sr.

Guess What!

You'll never guess what happened today. As I was walking out of the theatre my mom called me over to her and then I saw Rihanna. I got to take a picture with her and talk to her. I was so excited and I wasn't expecting to see her after a long day of rehearsal. That was a terrific way to end my day in New York. TTYL

Alphonso

My Awesome Vacation

Recently we got a new cast member named Eden. She is our new Young Nala . I also I went on vacation. My family and I went to Washington DC. I had a blast. We went to almost all of the trademarks. We went to the Bureau of Engraving and Printing. This is where new money is made. Next year we are going to have a new 100 dollar bill. It has lots of colors and many new security features. We also went to The Capitol Building, Air and Space Museum, Museum of Natural History, and The White House! I saw and learned a lot of things in all of those buildings. I even saw the T-Rex from Night at The Museum 2. That was awesome and it was really big. We saw a 3D movie in the Smithsonian called Dinosaurs and we learned a lot about how the dinosaurs survived and hunted. That was cool. My vacation was Awesome. TTYL

Alphonso

"Whip My Hair" - Willow Smith

Meeting Jordin Sparks

This week was great. All of the cubs got lasers tag guns for backstage. We play with them so much I'm surprised the batteries didn't die yet. My sister and cousin also made a dance for the song Whip My Hair by Willow Smith. They even put it up on youtube. I'm gonna link it to my blog page so check it out. I also got my custom made converses. They are really cool. They are purple and blue. My classmates love my shoes. I love them too. And to top things off, I went to see In The Heights and I met Jordin Sparks! She was so nice. I loved the music so much that my dad bought me the soundtrack. TTYL

Alphonso

First Day of School!!!!!!

Today was awesome. It was first day back to school. I was so happy to see all of my friends from last year. I am also happy because I am in middle school. I'm gonna have a locker and I'm gonna be changing classes. I saw all of the teachers who I am really close to. It was nice to be back in school. This school year is gonna be great. TTYL

Alphonso

A Super Labor Day

Today my family and I spent the day with Khail and her family. They took us to the West Indian Parade in Brooklyn. It was amazing! There were so many people at the parade so we all stayed very close because it would have been easy to get lost. Each group in the parade had sound systems that were so big that they were on 18 wheeler flat bed trucks. When the trucks moved closed to me, the vibrations went all through my body. I have never felt like that ever before in my life. It felt like every muscle in my body was jumping and tingling to the beat of the music. Incredible! The costumes were great even though my mom had to cover my eyes from time to time. Before we left, my dad bought me some extra large shrimp to eat. They were huge. When I opened the bag I got the surprised of my life....the heads were still on! I kinda freaked out. Mommy came to the rescue and made the shrimp look like what I'm used to eating. Whew! I was so glad. Overall it was one of the best Labor Days that I can remember. TTYL
Alphonso

Happy Anniversary to Me!

Today I celebrated one year at the Lion King! It was so much fun. My dad sent me a fruit basket from Edible Arrangements. It was a basketball arrangement and it was so good. I shared it with the other cubs. Then my church sent me balloons with a web cam lion. Also I found out that I did exceptionally well on the NJASK test. I had the highest score in my grade. My mom and dad are so proud of me. The whole Lion King family was also proud and they gave me congratulations all day. My mom says that middle school will be more challenging, but I'm going to do my very best in school this year. TTYL
Alphonso

Good Bye Niki

Yesterday was a very hard day. My wrangler, Niki, is moving to Virginia and it was her last day. On Saturday, we had a big pot luck for her between shows. There were so many past Young Simbas and Young Nalas who came to say goodbye. The cubs did a skit and we also sang an original song. I dressed like a punk rocker and my mom gave me a red mohawk. It was loads of fun. During the second show, I gave Niki my special gift and she cried, cried, cried! Then yesterday, it was my turn. I cried, cried, cried. She is like my second mother and I will miss her so much. My mom picked me up then Niki called to ask if I could stay and I was glad she said yes. When the show was over, we were all crying including my mom and sisters. My dad turned his back so he wouldn't cry. We got our last hugs and left. Then I heard Niki yell out my name and I ran back to the theater and we hugged and cried again. Boy that was really hard for me. I'm glad I get to talk to her on the phone and hopefully, I'll get to visit her one day. It was so hard to say goodbye.......... I love you Niki
TTYL
Alphonso

Youtube Sensation

Last year, I made a video for my Pastor for his anniversary since I wasn't going to be there. My mom brought it last week so the other cubs' parents could see it. Ms. Wendy convinced me to put it on youtube so I did. If you would like to see it, type in Pastor Nevernap on the youtube search and check it out. It was so well received that I have decided to make it a series and I'm working on a next one now. I have great news, Shannon is getting her transplant tomorrow! I am so happy. Oh one more thing, I finally did a front flip in gymnastics and landed on my feet with no help! I'm really getting better. TTYL
Alphonso

Summer Is Great!

Summer has been great so far. I am still going to gymnastics with my sister but I still haven't learned how to do a back flip by myself. It's a little scary without a spotter. My great grandmother turned 96 on August 2nd and we had a big party for her. It was so much fun. Khail had a birthday party and it was fantastic. We went to the pool, had a few dance-offs, and stayed up very very late at the hotel. Both of my sisters came to the party too and that made it even more fun. I'm still playing my guitar. I have even made a song. I played it for J Bo and he loved it. So did Jade's mom. My parents bought me a music making software for the computer and I love it! My sister Camille and I use it all the time. Joshua spent a week at my house and he loves it too. Oh I almost forgot, I got to see Shannon. She came to the theatre and surprised us. I was so happy to see her and she looks great! Well that's all for now. TTYL

Alphonso

Catching Up

Hello readers,
Alphonso has been taking a much deserved break since school is done for the year. Here are a few things that has happened over the last few weeks. Alphonso, along with his sisters, was in a car accident. Thankfully everyone was okay. Cars can be replaced but lives cannot. He was promoted to the sixth grade with high honors. His contract with Lion King has been extended again! We are so pleased with his growth as an actor. Lawrence Presbyterian Church centered their Vacation Bible School around the Lion King so we popped in for a surprise visit. The children, as well as the staff, were so excited when we arrived. It was great. He was also asked to be part of a video. Once the shot is complete, he will release all of the pertinent information. My husband and I would like to takes this opportunity to thank all of you for your continued support. TTYL
Mr & Mrs Jones

My Whole School Saw Me Perform

Today was so fun. My school came to see the show today. The 6th, 7th, and 8th graders came this time. That was the last of the whole school. They had lots of fun watching the show. We saw them on their way back to Trenton. They waved and I waved back. After the show all of the cubs went to BKC (Broadway Kids Care). We all had so much fun. We made posters for the member in our cast who is sick. I had a great time. At the second show, Jade and I watched a movie and ate snacks. That was great. TTYL

Alphonso

The Big Opening Week

This week was the opening week for our new Timon, Pumbaa, Nala, Zazu, Mufasa, and Scar. They are great performers. They are also extremely nice and friendly to any new person that they meet. This was also the opening week for the new show arrangements. I like it because it gets my mom and I on an earlier train than before. Today we also Skyped one of the cast members who is sick. Everyone was so excited. This was the second time we did it. Next time we are going to make signs and posters to let the whole cast know. TTYL

Alphonso

From Good Morning America to The Bachelorette

Today I went to GMA. I had to get up really early. I was really tired and it was cold outside. Finally we went inside. I was so happy to be in the warmth of that room. We only got 10 minutes of camera time because most of the anchors were in other places. I still had fun because I met Betty White, George Stephanopoulos, Carson Kressley. I had a blast. After that I went home. At home I played my drums until it was time for gymnastics. I had a lot of fun at gymnastics. After gymnastics I went to game stop with my dad. I bought a new video game and a skin. I played that game that game for the rest of the day until I found out that I was on the television show "The Bachelorette". They filmed the episode a while ago and it just aired. I was so excited. I WAS JUMPING ALL AROUND THE HOUSE. I was very happy. Today was fun. TTYL

Alphonso

Going to the Tony Awards

Today was my last time doing Morning Report. I made sure I danced really well so I could stamp it into my memory. After the show, we gave flowers to our leaving cast members. Then I got dressed and my mom and I went to the Tony's!!! I had an amazing time. It was so exciting and an amazing experience. I saw so many stars like Jay-z, Beyonce, Denzel Washington and his wife, and finally Will and Jada Pinkett Smith! That was amazing. I had a great day. TTYL

Alphonso

The Final Rehearsal

Yesterday, my mom and I got caught in the pouring rain with no umbrellas. We were soaked, but we found a great chinese restaurant so it was worth it. Today was fun. We had a full dress rehearsal for the new cuts. Khail and I watched the rehearsal while Josh and Jade did the rehearsal. I had so much fun watching because I never get to see it. After the first act all of the kids were dismissed. Then we went to get something to eat. I got pizza. It was really good. We all played in the lobby until it was time to go backstage. I had a great show. TTYL

Alphonso

A Life Changing Experience

Today my sister came with me to New York. When we got there, we watched Timon and Pumbaa rehearse their scenes. That was really fun. Then Jade, Khail, my sister, and I played hide and seek until it was time for us to go backstage. I had a great show. After the show, I met and signed an autograph for a girl who was disabled. Niki was telling me about her so I recognized her as soon as I came out of the stage door. It made my heart feel so good because she was so excited to meet me. I will always remember how she made me feel. I will never forget her. Today was great. TTYL

Alphonso

A Sad Day

Today was my great grandmother's funeral. She was 88 years old. She has been sick most of my life so I didn't know her very well. My sister Brittany was really crying because she was named after her. It made me feel bad to see her cry. Afterwards, I met alot of my cousins that I've never seen before. Then I had to leave to come to work. I was very tired and more sadder than I thought I would be. I was so glad that Joshua was doing tonight's show. TTYL

Alphonso

Noahs Ark: 2010

Today was a crazy Memorial Day. Usually we go to my grandmother's grave and take flowers followed by a cookout. But this was the most unusual Memorial Day ever. It started raining really hard and out of no where, in a matter of fifteen minutes, the whole street was flooded. The water was up to me knees. That was so wild. Then the power went out. My dad ran and got the camera and we recorded this historic event that happened. It was so amazing because in area where I live would be the last place I'd ever check for a flood. They hardly happened. Then as fast as it came, it all washed away. Now I know the real meaning of a "flash flood". That was crazy. TTYL

Alphonso

A Very Busy Week

This week was so hectic with all of the rehearsals. It seemed like there was rehearsals every day. I had rehearsal with the new cast members. They are in training. Since I'm a main character I have to be in the rehearsals. They were long but worth it. My dad brought me to work yesterday. Between shows, we went to the Intrepid. That was so awesome. We saw where the crew slept, cooked, and worked. It was so interesting how they showed the different things they used on the ship. I even got to put on a World War II army helmet. It was really heavy and it covered my whole face. My question was why did they have to wear those. I had a great time looking at the different planes and helicopters. All of the shows this week went great. TTYL


Alphonso

A New Show, How Exciting!

Today I bought shoes to wear to the Tony Awards. They look so nice. Then I had rehearsal. First we started rehearsing the new changes for the show. I'm very excited because it feels like a brand new show and I get to have an opening night all over again. I rehearsed with different cast members. Afterwards, I went back to the theatre. At the theatre, I watched Timon and Pumbaa rehearse. Before I knew it it was time for my call. I played games backstage and hung out with Niki. I had a lot of fun. TTYL

Alphonso

Young Lion Off Duty

Josh came home with me yesterday and spent the night. We went to see Shrek last night and it was so funny. Today Josh went to school with me. We had so much fun. He said he likes my school. Then we went home and played video games until it was time to go to the baseball game. At the game, I sung the National Anthem and threw out the first pitch. There was only one slight problem. I threw the ball too high and it almost hit one of the photographers. All of the field staffers were cracking up. They said that it was the fastest they had ever seen that man move. My mom,church,family and all of the spectators said that I did great. I think I did great too. Oh, guess what... Reggie Jackson was at the game and I got to shake his hand in the dugout. The manager is going to try to get him to autograph a baseball for me. What an exciting day! TTYL

Alphonso

From Gold To Jade

Today was an amazing day. The first show went great. Between shows, my dad and I went to the King Tut Exibit across the street from the theatre. It was awesome. There was everything from artifacts to the king's gold! Then I went back to the theatre for a vocal rehearsal with the new Timon and Pumbaa. They are funny, impressive, and really cool guys. I'm going to be quick friends with them. Tonight was also the first time I did a show with Jade. Even though it was new working with her, it still felt very comfortable. She is a great Young Nala. I love her scream in the "Chow Down" chase. It's perfect. Our show went great. TTYL


Alphonso

Men Can Get Mani Pedis Too

Today was a great day. Between shows I got a mani pedi. That is short for a manicure and pedicure. It felt so good, especially the foot soak and massage. I was in heaven the whole time. They also buffed my nails and they are still shiny. I loved it. For the first time I performed with a different Zazu. It was weird performing with someone new. But that's how it is with everything. He did a pretty good job. It was also Jade's first show. I gave her a necklace to remember her Broadway debut. It really makes me feel good to give to others. TTYL

Alphonso

Oh No My Mom's Coming To My School

Today I found out one of my worst nightmares came true. Out of every school in Trenton, my mom got transfered to teach at my school. I went crazy. So as soon as my mom finishes her leave of absence, she is coming straight to my school. On the train, my mom helped me learn the National Anthem. I have to sing it at the game where I'm throwing out the first pitch. I think I got it. The show went great. On the train home, I scared the guy in front of us. I was singing "Encourage Yourself" and I sung "speak over yourself" and I scared him. He was sleeping and I woke him up. My mom got a kick out of that one. When we got home, I went to visit my great grandma. I haven't seen her in a long time. While I was there, I saw this really cool hamper. It had three different bags. 1 for colors, 1 for whites, and 1 for whatever you want. I want that because it will make laundry so much easier. TTYL

Alphonso

My Mom's New Dress

Today was a great day. When we got in the city, my mom and I went to a dress shop to look for a dress for the Tony's. I picked out a beautiful dress. The dress color in Eggplant. My mom said she can't wait to put it on. I can't wait to see her in it, especially since I bought it. Today was Shereen's last show. But this time I didn't cry. She told me she'll be back to visit in June. I can't wait. The show was great. Dashaun's (Adult Simba) mom was in the audience so I gave 200% into the show. TTYL

Alphonso

A Saturday Adventure With My Dad

Today was so much fun. After the first show, my dad and I went to the 9th Ave Street Fair. I had so much fun. There was lots of food and games and all sorts of things. My dad bought a gyro. He loves gyros. I bought wings and fries. Those were really good. Then my dad and I went to the park. I swung on the swings for a long time. Then my dad took pictures of me while I was playing. All of a sudden we heard a boat horn. We walked to where we heard the sound then we saw the Pier 88. My dad said we didn't have enough time to go over there so we just took a picture with one of the boats in the background. The second show went great. TTYL

Alphonso

Welcome Jade!

I got home really late last night. So late that I had to miss school. I didn't miss much because I was only going to be in school for an hour. I slept for a long time then I made some breakfast. I made waffles. When I went to put on some syrup, I saw there was no more Mrs. Buttersworth left. So then I took a dare. I put on some sugar free syrup. I took one bite and that bite tasted like the bite of death. I ran to the garbage and threw my waffles away. I was mad because I wasted two good waffles. I rode the Amtrak with my god father who's a conductor for Amtrak. We got there really early. So we finished some errands that we had to run. Then we went to the theatre for my rehearsal. It was a long and tiring rehearsal. It was for the new Young Nala. Her name is Jade. She is very nice and fits right in with us. It's too bad Shereen is leaving on Sunday. I had fun with her coming back to the show again. But there are new experiences to come. On our break before call, we all hung out in the lobby and ate dinner. My mom and I had anchovie pizza that was really good. The show went great today. Tommorow is Jade's put in. TTYL

Alphonso`

On the Red Carper at the Tony's

I'm going to the Tony Awards!!!!!!!!!!!! I found out today that Lion King had ten tickets to the Tony Awards. I quickly called my mom and asked my mom if she wanted to go. My mom was not a split second late to say, " YES!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!" Then I ran to stage management and signed up for two tickets. I can't wait to go. I'm already planning out what I'm going to wear. I'm going to meet tons of famous people. I'm gonna have a blast. TTYL

Alphonso

Apples, Apples, Apples

Yesterday between shows, the cast and crew had a Top Chef Cookoff. The featured ingredient was apples. I didn't know so many dishes could be made with apples! There were appetizers, main dishes and desserts. I ate so much. I love it when we have food competitions. They are so much fun. Today was a great day. I told my mom Happy Mothers Day this morning. My whole household family came with me to New York. Before my call my mom, sisters, and I went to get makeovers. Then we went to the theatre. The show went great. It was too bad that I couldn't spend Mother's Day with my mom. TTYL


Alphonso

Getting Some Much Needed Rest

Today I stayed home from school because I got home really late and I was really tired. I could not be tired during the state test because my brain wouldn't work right. I'll just have to take the makeup test for math. So I slept in my bed for a long time. I got out of bed and watched a movie to pass the time. I watched Hoodwinked. That is a really good movie. My favorite character is Twitchy. He is a squirrel who speaks really fast and you can't understand a word he is saying. He is a funny character. Then it was time to go to work. At the theatre, I ordered some food then I drew on Niki's dry erase board. Then Josh and I were dunking in our dressing room. It felt good to play like a kid other than on Mondays. TTYL

Alphonso

Another Crazy Train Ride

Today was a crazy day. We started the NJ ASK yesterday with Language Arts and today we finished Language Arts. The train ride to work was crazy. When we were about to stop at Rahway, the train stopped in the middle of the track and didn't move for almost an hour. I was sleep and everytime I happened to look up, we were in the same spot. We past Rahway and then the conductor told us they were terminating the train at Newark Penn Station. That means they weren't stopping in New York City. So my mom and I got off the train and had to find our way to the next train. The defect is that Newark Penn is the biggest and most confusing station I've ever been in! Secaucus Junction that was confusing too. My mom and I finally got there. But I was ten minutes late. that was a real bummer. I was going to order out to eat at the theatre, but I forgot to. I don't know how but I did. So I going to have oodles of noodles when get home. TTYL

Alphonso

NJASK, I'm Ready for You

Today was wonderful. The weather was great. My mom, sister, and I walked up to the theatre from Penn Station. That walk felt good because of the fantastic breeze. The show went great. Backstage Josh and I were drumming and making beats in our dressing room. We drummed for fifteen minutes straight. I had so much fun. Tommorow starts NJASK testing. I think I am very prepared. I am also confident that I am going to pass the test. I'm going to get lots of sleep and a good breakfast. I have to make sure my brain is functioning its very best. TTYL

Alphonso

From Tribeca to Corbin to Car Fire

Today was fun but crazy. The fun part was that BKC performed at the Tribeca Film Festival. Another fun part was that my dad took me to Sam Ash after the first show. Then Khail, Shereen, Joshua and I went to meet Corbin Bleu. He was so nice. I took an individual picture with him. That was so cool. The crazy part started in the lobby. Joshua, Khail, Shreen, me and all of our parents were in the lobby watching people on the street dance when all of a sudden a car started smoking. The car was on fire. I was so scared because it was so close to the theater. That was really scary. Watch the news tomorrow for all the details of what happened. Inspite of all of that, I had a great show today. TTYL

Alphonso

Running For My Life

Today was a super amazing day. I got out of school early because of parent teacher conferences. After lunch we went outside, played, then we went home. Before I left, I went to the book fair. I bought the rest of the Diary of a Wimpy Kid Series. When I was walking home, I got chased by some girls who came to see the show yesterday. I had to run really fast to get home. Luckily, I live right down the street from my school. I banged on my door and ran in the house as soon as my mom opened the door. She asked me what's wrong and I told her what happened while totally out of breath. That was crazy. I started reading the second book of the series at home then I kept reading on the train. Then I was interrupted by a lady who recognized me. Her name was Deneen. She was so excited to meet me. She asked for my autograph and my mom took a picture of us on Deneen's camera phone. She said that her sister was going to be jealous. I felt like a star. When we got in the city, I bought some sunglasses. My mom said I looked incognito. The glasses only cost me $5.00 and I love them. I wore them all the way to the theatre. At the theatre, we were collecting money for a cast member who has Leukemia. I hope we raise a lot of money. TTYL

Alphonso

I Went to Broadway Kids Care

Today was a terrific day. First of all, my school came today. The Pre-K, 1st, 2nd, 3rd, 4th, and 6th graders came to see me. I was so excited. When I got on stage, I had so much energy. Then between shows Joshua, Khail, Shereen and I went to a group place called BKC. That stands for Broadway Kids Care. I had tons of fun there. We are rehearsing to perform in the Tribeca Film Festival this Saturday. We are singing I'm a Believer, Anything You Can Do I Can Do Better, and Do Re Mi. Then we had pizza. Shereen told me they have pizza everyday. The second show went fast and it was great. Tomorrow all of the teachers want me to autograph the students' playbills so I'll be very busy at school in the morning. TTYL

Alphonso

NJ Ask Here I Come

Today was an easy day. At school, we went over everything we learned in the whole year because we are starting NJ ASK testing. We also did four poems. I finished and typed my poems and they are really funny. My gymnastics class was great. After gymnastics, I went to my sister's Student of the Month ceremony. Then I went to get my hair cut. The barbershop was closed so I couldn't get my hair cut. Today was great. TTYL

Alphonso

Meeting Matt Damon

Today was amazing. I was late to the theatre. The train broke down at Princeton Junction. So we had to get on another train which was one hour late because of all the people who had to get on at Princeton Junction. I made it to the theatre in time to get dressed and be ready for showtime. My day went from bad to great because I found out that Matt Damon was in the audience. I was so excited. After the show, I took a picture and shook hands with him. I made sure I gave a great performance just in case he was scouting. I had a big day. TTYL

Alphonso

Sad Beginnings Make Happy Endings

Today was a weird day. It started with a very early rehearsal. Khail and I were in a put-in. Afterwards, we watched the second act with our moms in the back of the theatre. My principal called my mom and said that my school was coming again on this Wednesday. This time 200 students are coming. When rehearsal was over, we went to Toys R Us, but it wasn't a pleasant visit. We were told that one of our cast mates was very sick and would be out for a while. Khail and I wanted to buy a gift for her. We picked out something very nice. The gift is from Joshua, Khail and me. At the second show, everybody was so sad, but the show must go on. When we left the theatre, we got on the train. Then everyone from the hockey game got on the train in Newark. The guy that sat behind us said that his son called 911 because he learned it in school today and the police came to his house. My mom and I thought that was so funny. We laughed so hard! So what started out as a sad trip home ended up being very funny. TTYL

Alphonso

I Love to Laugh

Today was wonderful day. Between shows, my mom and I went to see Death at a Funeral. That movie was so funny. I was laughing really hard. My favorite part was when the man was naked on the roof. Then I found out that the movie was a remake of a british comedy version. Joshua, Khail, myself and our parents went to Ruby Tuesdays between shows. That was very nice. At the second show, we celebrated Enrique's birthday. Enrique plays Ed in the show. He said he turned 23 for the 20th time. I thought that was really funny. Today was great. TTYL



Alphonso

I'm Still A Winner

Today was a wonderful day. I found out that I didn't win the essay contest, but I felt good because I knew that I did my very best. In school, we caught up on everything that needed to be done this month. Then we played kickball in gym. The boys won 10 to 2. I was very happy. I only got out once. After school my mom, sister, and I went to get paint for our kitchen. We got a paint swatch and brought it home for my dad. Before I went to the theatre, my mom and I went to K-Mart and got me a digital camera so I could take pictures backstage. The colors of my camera is red and black. At the theatre, I watched Big Momma's House 2 and cleaned out my drawer. Now my draw in spic and span. TTYL

Alphonso

The Best Train Ride Ever

Today was my first time performing on a Sunday in a long time. It felt very different plus I won't get home as early as I usually do. Niki wasn't here today but Jessica was here. Niki was making 400 cakeballs for a Bah Mitzvah and she is also making cakeballs for Mothers Day. Her cakeballs are really good. I ate lots of airheads backstage. I couldn't help it. Lucki,ly they didn't stain my tongue. The show went great. On the train home, the lights kept going off. I love it when the train is dark. I said that the train ride was the best ever. TTYL

Alphonso

Seeing Shereen Again

Today was great. I didn't have the matinee so I got to leave early with my dad. My dad and I went to Toys R Us. I got a travel case for my DSi XL. Then we went to McDonalds and ate. After that I waited in the lobby until it was time for my call. Before the show started, Shereen came and visited us. I was really happy to see her. The show went great. After the show, I took picture with people in the audience. TTYL

Alphonso

I Pays To Do Well in School

Today was great. I finally finished my essay on global warming. I emailed it to my teacher and now I'm waiting to hear if I won or not. I also found out that I received several awards in school, but I got to school after the ceremony was over. They were citizenship, honor roll for the 1st marking period, and honor roll for the 2nd marking period. I was really happy because in addition to the certificates, I was given gift certificates to McDonalds and two movie cards. I had rehearsal today. The rehearsal lasted two hours. I haven't had rehearsal in a long time so it was hard work. On the break, I went on Study Island and did work. Then I played around with Joshua and Khail. Marquis came to see us today. He was happy to see us. The second show was great. TTYL

Alphonso

Introducing Khail and Joshua- The New Cubs

Today was an amazing day. I am entering an essay contest. The topic of the essay is "Global Warming". My essay is coming along really well. I didn't have the matinee so I went to go see "Diary of a Wimpy Kid:The Movie". I read the book already. The movie was closley based on the book. So I pretty much new the whole storyline. Between shows the new cubs, Joshua and Khail, and I hung out in the lobby. We ran, flipped, danced and had a good time. The second show was my first performance with Khail. Niki, my wrangler, said that we looked like we performed together before. She said it was perfect. I had a lot of fun. Today was a really fun day. TTYL

Alphonso

Opening Night For the New Cubs

Today was a great day. I got my hair cut after school. It looks really nice now. On the train, I slept so hard that I forgot all about the new cubs' opening night. My mom reminded me while we were getting off of the train. I screamed and ran into the nearest store I saw. I bought the boy a watch and the girl a necklace. They loved their gifts. I had anchovie pizza today. It was really good. I had a root beer with my pizza. I figured out that root beer is my favorite soda. TTYL

Alphonso

Happy Trails to Shereen and Marquis

Yesterday and today were big days. The days were important because they were Marquis's and Shereen's last two days in the show. Yesterday, we all cried because we were going to miss each other. My mom and Shereen have become so attached to each other. Both of them were crying alot and I was too. Shereen's dad promised that we would all see each other again. I'm counting on that. Today, Shereen and I watched the whole first act from the audience. We had lots of fun. The show looked totally different than on stage. All the effects looked totally awesome. The sound was great too. We had a "Happy Trails" celebration for them. We had red velvet cake. The cake was good and I had a great time. Happy Trails to Shereen and Marquis. TTYL


Alphonso

From the New DSI to the New Cubs

Yesterday I got the new DSI-XL. It is way cool. You can do so many things on it and the screen is much larger. My dad and I went to buy it after I finished my gymnastics class. Today was so much fun. We spent almost the whole day with the new cubs. First Shannon and I rehearsed with the new cubs. We ran through the whole show. Then we made changes to both of our shows. Most of the changes were in the elephant graveyard. After the rehearsal, my mom and I went to a restaurant. I had chicken finger and fries. My mom had what she called the best tuna salad sandwich ever. The food was reallly good. At the theatre, the new young simba tracked backstage with me again. It was really cool to hang out with him. TTYL

Alphonso

Reading The Wonderful Wizard of Oz

Today was a great day. I had no school because I am on spring break. I slept until 12:00pm. Then I played video games. After I finished the games, I went over my grandma's house to help clean. I cleaned for 30 minutes then I rode my scooter outside with my friends. Before I left to get on the train, my family and I watched old video tapes that my grandma had. It was so funny looking back on old times. In all of the videos, I hadn't been born yet. In some of the videos, my mom was pregnant with me. My mom bought "The Wonderful Wizard of Oz" for me on her Kindle. So I read that on the train. I fell asleep while I was reading. When I woke up, I saw that I was reading the chapter about the poppies. That was really funny. The show went great and I can't wait to get home. On the train, there were three guys who were very funny. My mom was laughing so hard that she was crying. Everytime she tried to calm down, she would crack up laughing again. That made the train ride home fun and fast. TTYL

Alphonso

Finally A Successful Back Roll

Today was awesome. I had a great show with the new Timon cover. Between shows, I stayed in the lobby and practiced my back rolls. I finally did one. I am so proud of myself. I also have to thank my mom for helping me. At the second show, the new Nala came for tracking. Tracking is when you follow someone else to see what they do during the show. She tracked Shereen. Of course, Shannon and I couldn't go with them so we stayed backstage with our other wrangler and Zuey. I had so much fun today. TTYL

Alphonso

A Rainy Tuesday

Inspite of the rainy weather, I had a great day today. At school, I finished all of my writing prompts. I am also counting down the days until spring break. Woohooo! I can't wait. At the theatre, we had a new Timon understudy go on. He was hilarious and I love his puppeteering. At second act, I had some soup and watched Pink Panther 2. It was very funny. Today was great. TTYL

Alphonso

So Long Danny

Today was a fun day. After the show it was our turn again to get my pictures taken with audience members. It makes me feel good to see how many people want to get pictures taken. Not because it's with me but because the money is used for a great cause. Between shows we had a Pot Luck for Danny our "Timon". They had all types of food. I just ate the pizza. After the Pot Luck, I watched the big jumbo tron which was showing episodes of Spongebob. You couldn't hear the sound but it had captions. So I practically read the episodes. At the second show, I got my hair cut by John Jordan my hair dresser. He shaped it up. Now my mom says I look really nice. Today was great. TTYL

Alphonso

Meeting the New Cubs

Today was a fantastic day. A group of kids came for the matinee. Before half hour Niki, Shannon, Shereen, Marquis and I talked to them and answered their questions. I had fun. Between shows, my mom and I went to Toys R US. I bought a Miatchi. I used it as a bean bag. That kept me entertained for a long time. Then I ordered pizza. By the time I went backstage, the pizza delivery called. I got anchovies on my pizza. I loved that pizza. The new kids also came to see the show. They are so cool. I can't wait to work with them. Today was great. TTYL

Alphonso

Mic Check 1 2 3...

Today was long day. We had to take the early train into New York because I had rehearsal. The rehearsal was for the new sound board. It makes everything louder and clearer. The technicians had to make the new sound board match the levels of the old sound board. The rehearsal was really long. But in the end everything was great. Backstage, Shereen and I started a new movie. The movie was called "Imagine That". From what I saw, it was pretty funny. I can''t wait to finish it. TTYL

Alphonso

It's Spring!!!!!!

Today is the first day of Spring. I had so much fun in the great outdoors. Before my call, my dad and I went to the park to play basketball. We shot the ball a lot then we headed out for the theatre. After the show, Shereen and I took photos for Broadway Cares. There was a long line of people waiting to take a picture with us. I enjoyed the limelight. During the break, my dad and I went back to the park and played some more basketball. I had so much fun that backstage I took a nap. Today was a fantastic day. I can't wait until tomorrow so I can have fun in the great weather. TTYL

Alphonso

Party Planning

Today was such a nice day. After I was picked up from school, my mom, sister, and I went to different places to try and find a venue to have my sister's sweet sixteen party. We found some nice places but now we are stuck between two places. We have a good idea of which one we are going to pick though. At home, I hung out with my mom and showed my sister the places that we saw. Then my mom showed her the sketch of my sister's party layout that she drew. Everything is gong to look so nice. I can't wait. Too bad it is next year. I had a great show, on stage and backstage. I can't wait to get home and get some rest. TTYL



Alphonso

A Wonderful St. Patricks Day

Today was such a wonderful day. My mom and I took an earlier train to New York so we could catch some of the St. Patrick's Day Parade. I had so much fun watching the parade. Then we had to walk on Madison Avenue back to 42nd Street, walk up to 7th Avenue, and up to 45th Street to get to the theatre. All of the streets were blocked off. That was a lot of walking but I didn't mind because it was a nice day, in spite of all the drunks. After one great show my mom and I walked around. We went to Bryant Park, The NY Public Library, the top of the TKTS stairs, and a lot of other places. I had so much fun and it felt good to be out and about and not in the same places all of the time. Today was really great. TTYL


SCHEDULE THROUGH APRIL 11, 2010: TUES 7PM, WED 2PM, THUR 8PM, SAT 2PM
Alphonso

Catching Up

I know I haven't blogged in a long time but some great and not so great things have happened. My dad and I got stuck in New York Saturday because of the great rain storm. I also went to my first gymnastics class yesterday. My sister and I both went to gymnastics. We had lots of fun but the movements caused lots of pain. This morning my mom asked me if my body was in pain. I said no. I guess the pain went away. In school, we did brain teasers and studied the four states of matter; Solid, Plasma, Liquid, Gas. We did definitions and gave examples of each one using things in the classroom. At the theatre, Niki put up new holiday decorations. They were all St. Patrick's Day decorations. At second act, Shereen's mom treated me to some crab bisque. I thought that was really nice of her. I also thought the soup was really great. I had a awesome show too. TTYL

Alphonso

My PSP is Fixed!!!!

Yes! My PSP is fixed! After almost two months, it is fixed. One of the people at the theatre knew how to fix it. So he fixed it without any problem. I couldn't thank him enough for taking the time to fix my PSP. As soon as I get home, I'm gonna play some games. During the first act, I played with Lucy (Niki's dog) and Zuey ( ensemble member's dog). They are so cute. I got to feed them and play with them. I had lots of fun. Today was a great day, especially the PSP part. TTYL

Alphonso

Alphonso the Breakdancer

Today was a terrific day. On the way up to New York on the train, I did my homework. I did some math and I wrote one of the best stories I've ever written. I was pleased with the finished product. . When we got in the city, we ate at Cafe Edison. My mom and I shared one waffle and I had the best hot chocolate ever. It was so good. The first show went great. At second act, Niki and I went on www.jibjab.com to put my face in another person's video. The video is of me being a break dancing leprechan. Every person that I showed laughed really hard. Between shows, my mom and I went to Subway and Arthur Treachers to eat. I had Subway and she had Arthur Treachers. I got a meatball sub. That was really good. At the second show, I worked out with one of the male dancers. Then I played with Maria's new dog Cloe. She is so cute and furry. I love her so much. Today went by fast. TTYL

Alphonso

Writing All Day

Today in school we wrote all day. We had to write, check, and hand in three papers. It was hard but I finished them. I was really happy. In the computer lab, I worked on my report about the spotted hyena. It is coming together well. I can't wait to have a finished product. After school, I got a hair cut. My mom said that it looked nice when I was done. After that I went to the church a watched the dance academy rehearse. TTYL

Alphonso

My House Warming Gift

Today was a nice day. My mom went to the dentist and while she was there my sister took me to get a dvd/vcr player for my great grandmother's new home. We went in the store and found the perfect one for the perfect price. I had a lot of money left over so I bought a Michael Jackson cd for $5.00. I was so happy to give the present to her. I called it her house warming gift. She was really happy but said she needed somebody to help her with it. I couldn't blame her. That remote has a lot of buttons. I left there and went to the theatre for an early rehearsal. We rehearsed all of our scenes. The best part was that in some scenes we got to play other character. The boys got to be Banzi, Scar, Zazu, and our own character. The girls were the lionesses, Shenzi and their character. That was so much fun. On our break, Shereen and I went to Applebees. I got really excited because they had kiwi lemonade. I haven't had kiwi lemonade in years. It felt good to have it again. Backstage I stayed on the computer and played basketball in my room. Today was a great day. TTYL

Alphonso

My School Came !!!!!!

Today was an exciting day. My school came to see me in the show. That was so cool. I was jumping off the walls. I couldn't wait to see them. I was a little bit nervous before I went on stage but once I got on stage, I was fine. At the bows, I got a big roar from my school mates. That made me feel great. After the show my school attended a Question and Answer session with the cast. After the Q and A, I took a picture with my class and said good bye to the students on all three buses. Between shows, my mom and I went to Grand Slam to get me some Heelys. I was so excited. I can't wait to wear them. Today was a great day. Happy Birthday Niki! TTYL


Alphonso

A Very Relaxing Sunday

Today was very relaxiing. There wasn't anything that went wrong today. When my mom and I got up we had breakfast out of the breakfast room in the hotel. I had two waffles and two bananas. That was really good. After we ate my mom checked my new schedule. The schedule had the names of the two new kids that are joining the show. When I saw their names, I felt happy and sad. Happy because I would meet new people. But sad because Marquis and Shereen are leaving. After my mom checked her email we sat and watched tv. While we watched tv, I heard pigeons pecking at the air conditioner. I kept looking over at the AC every time I heard pecks. My mom said that they couldn't get in but I said that they could try. At the theatre Shereen and I played games backstage. We played two games of Boggle, one game of Uno, and one game of basketball. We had lots of fun. At home my cousin, aunt, and others went to the movies for my cousin's birthday. We saw Cop Out. That movie was so funny. I laughed so many times. That trip was fun. TTYL

Alphonso

Meeting Some of My Biggest Fans

Today was a fun day. I hung out with twin brothers who read my blog regularly. Their names are Tylir and Tim and they are from Hamilton. They are really nice and so are their parents. We went to Dallas BBQ's and then took pictures in the box office lobby. They saw the show today and said that I did a great job. After the show, I went to the bus to thank them for coming. Then I went to Starbucks to thank Mrs. Brown, their mother. I took lots of pictures with people who saw the show. Between shows there was a poster signing party. There were so many posters to sign. I couldn't wait to finish so I could eat the food that was provided. My hands were tired when I finished. At the second show, I hung up posters on my mirror. They are really nice. Niki also brought her dog. Today was a very exciting and busy day. TTYL

Alphonso

Bring On The Students

Yesterday some students from Trenton came to see me perform. The student received tickets for their high academic achievement and participating in community service events. At the end of the show, they got a Q&A (question and answer) session along with students from Shannon's school. They had lots of fun. Today was a great day. In school, we are doing a report on animals that are in the Lion King. My report is on the spotted hyena, also called the laughing hyena. I can tell that so far my report is awesome. At the theatre, we decorated our dressing rooms and doors with construction paper. Our rooms look pretty nice. At the second act I ordered food and ate it while talking with Jessica and Shannon. During the show, my mom talked to a young man who just might be my biggest fan. He is coming to see me perform on Saturday and I'm so excited to finally meet him in person. See you real soon Tylir! TTYL

Alphonso

Getting the Big Check

Today was so cool. I felt like I was a major star. I had my first really big press conference. WZBN and Channel 6 Action News were in my school because the mayor was giving a check to the school. Mayor Palmer gave the money so that my fellow students can go to see The Lion King on Broadway. I was interviewed by the Trentonian newspaper. I also got to take a picture with the mayor, the executive board of his foundation and the big check for $13,500. He said that Bill Clinton helped him raise the money. That was so cool. It was even better because my mom, dad, godparents, and my uncle were there. Today was great. TTYL

Alphonso

Playing With My Sister

Today my sister came with me to New York. We had so much fun. On the way to New York, my sister and I played fight with the glare from our IPods. That was really funny because another person's glare came and we started to fight that one. At the theatre, Shereen and I made St. Patrick's Day decorations. They are so nice. We used glitter, construction paper, and glitter markers. The decorations are going into a cast members dressing room. The cast members loved them. On the train home, my sister and I played Guess Who. Then at home my cousin and I played it. We had fun. Today was great. TTYL

Alphonso

My Put In for Someone Else

Today was a fun day. I did my first "put in" for somebody else. I wore sweat pants and a mic belt. I felt weird because I didn't have my costume on. The put in was for a Nala swing and a Shenzi swing. I thought their performances were great. The put in was different from mine because the show didn't have any lights, or flying. They also cut some scenes and we didn't have as many cast members. On the break my mom stayed in the lobby and I watched The Jetsons Movie on one of the male ensemble member's laptop. I loved the movie. Unfortunately, I could not get to my mom in the lobby in time to say good bye. But I told her good bye at the the theatre on Facebook. The show went great and I can't wait to get home. TTYL

Alphonso

PS: Thanks for doing my poll. Keep voting. You can try to see if the box office will let you switch your tickets for the earlier show on March 27th. Sorry I will not be performing on February 21st. For the person on February 27th tell your parents to email my mom at kjjones@trenton.k12.nj.us I'd like to know more about you. My schedule through March 28th is Tues 7pm, Wed 2pm mat, Thur 8pm, and Sat 2pm mat. Please be careful when booking your tickets.I don't want anyone to be disappointed.

Two Show Wednesdays

Today was a weird day because we had two shows. Usually there is only one on Wednesday, but today there was two. Niki and I finished watching Eight Crazy Nights at the second act of the first show. She almost cried at the end. She said it was very touching. Then when the movie was done, we got some puppies to play with. Our room was like a puppy garden. They were so cuddly and soft. I love them. Between shows my mom helped me with my homework. She made it simple so I could understand it. I did very well. At the second show, I hung out with the dogs and paid visits to the actors in the principle hallway. I had lots of fun. TTYL

Alphonso

PS: Check out my new poll------->

March 28th is a one show day and the show starts at 3:00pm. Double check your tickets. If they say 8:00pm showtime then there's a problem somewhere.

Adjusting To My New Schedule

Today went by really fast. This morning it felt funny getting up early. I really did not want to go to school. As it went later into the day, I started to feel normal. In school we went over the papers we completed during the snowstorm. We finished, checked, and graded the papers. That took almost the whole day. I had a great show today. At second act, Shereen and I watched Eight Crazy Nights. I would love to meet Adam Sandler because he is so funny. I laughed really hard. That movie is merlangulous. I had a great day. Thanks for all of your comments and keep them coming. Yes I will be performing the matinee on February 27th! I'm so glad you'll get to see me! TTYL

Alphonso

PS: My schedule is:
Tuesday 7pm, Wednesday Mat 2pm, Thursday 8pm, Saturday Mat 2pm effective through March 28th

Winter Wonderland

Today was the best day ever. At the theatre, I couldn’t wait to get home to play in the snow. My mom watched the show today and that made me get even more excited. After the show, I watched the transition between no snow in New York and lots of snow in New Jersey. The farther the train went the more snow I saw. When I got home, I made a snow man with my cousin and my sister. It was the best snow man that we ever made. It was really tall. I love it. I had lots of fun today and I have no school tomorrow. Yes, Yes, Yes!. TTYL

Alphonso

Snowy Anticipation

Today was great. There was no school today because of Teachers in-service day. So on my school day off I visited my great-grandma. I stayed over there for an hour then I left to catch the train to work. My mom and I are staying in the city because of the impending snow storm. Trenton is expected to get 12 to 18 inches. The Trenton Public Schools are closed for tommorow. At the theatre, I played basketball on the boys' room door hoop. I had lots of fun. The people at the hotel are very nice and friendly. They told my mom that a lot of actors stay here. They were very excited when they found out that I play Simba in the Lion King. Today was a great day. TTYL

Alphonso

Super Bowl Sunday -- Go Colts

Today was a great day. Everyone was so excited being that it was Super Bowl Sunday. Niki gave the leader of the chili cook-off Super Bowl cake balls. They were the colors of the Saints and the Colts. I was excited too. Between shows my parents and I stayed in the lobby and played Uno. We played lots of games. I'm glad I won at least once because my mom was kicking my and my dad's butt. I had lots of fun. At the second show, I sat in Butch's room and watched the Super Bowl. From what I saw, my team-the Colts, were playing well. I can't wait to see who wins. On the train my mom told me that she saw people from Trenton who came to see me. Unfortunately, they bought tickets for the evening show instead of the matinee. My dad felt really bad and so did my mom. I'm excited for Wednesday because another bus from Trenton is coming to see me in the show. That is so cool! TTYL

Alphonso

Cold Snow and Hot Chili

Today was great. My mom, dad and I stayed in a hotel because of all the snow in Trenton. I'm having a great time. Plus I don't have to wake up so early to go to the theatre. At the theatre, Shereen and I played Sorry and played with the two dogs. We had lots of fun. Between shows I bought a glow board that you can write on and it glows in the dark. It is so cool. Then some of the cast members had a chili cookoff. There were so many different kinds of chili. I thought the KaBoom chilli was the best but it didn't win. Oh well. At the second show, Shereen and I ate and watched The Wiz. We had lots of fun. TTYL

Alphonso

My Snacks Came Back

Today was a great day. My mom picked me up from school and when we got to the train station, we saw my godfather. So we all rode on the Amtrak express train to New York. It’s always great to see him. Since I lost my food at Madame Tussaud’s yesterday, my mom and I bought some food to store backstage so I can save money. I think that was a smart idea because I spend almost $10.00 every time I do a show.  Now I can save a lot of money. I have a big stash of food in my dressing room. At second act I was eating when suddenly Marquis brought up a bag from the stage door and it had the snacks that I lost yesterday. I was so happy because now I have double the snacks. when we came home I gave my Pastor a gift for his anniversary. He loved it. Today was great. TTYL

Alphonso

Happy Birthday Mommy

Today in art class, we made more hearts for our fundraiser "Hearts for Haiti". I am honored to be helping the children of Haiti. Today in New York, I felt like a big star. We had a big signing party at the Madame Tussaud's Wax Museum. Lots of kids were in line to get my autograph and take pictures with me. I felt like a big time star. The kids were so nice and the best part was that we got to see parts of the museum for free. When I was at the theatre, I realized that I left my snack I bought at the museum. So my mom and my sister went back to the museum and they got to see the whole museum for free but someone had already taken my snacks. Since it was my mom's birthday, she and my sister went to Red Lobster. The waiters even sung "Happy Birthday" to my mom. I wish I could have been there but I had to work. Maybe next year I can take a vacation day on her birthday and spend it with her. The show was great too. TTYL

Alphonso

A Very Busy Monday

Today was busy day. In school we did a lot of math and writing in our notebooks. Our notebooks are filled with daily questions. My hand was hurting because we wrote a lot of things. We also learned a lot from those questions. We did so much that we had to eat lunch in the classroom. Now we have information to look back on in the future. After school we did lots of things. We had to record my acceptance speech for the Black Image Awards because I have to work so I will not be able to attend the banquet. We also had to do something else but I'm gonna keep it a surprise. I worked very hard today and I can't wait to rest. TTYL

Alphonso

I Went to See Tyler Perry

Yesterday, my dad and I went to go see Madea's Big Happy Family. That play was really really funny. I laughed a lot. It was also a really good story. I give it a thumbs up. We stood in the concession line behind an actor that was in "Madea Goes to Jail" and we rode the subway with another actor that was in "Why Did I Get Married". It was so exciting. Today I walked around backstage selling beaded hearts that my classmates made to raise money for the children in Haiti. I raised a lot of money. I can't wait to donate it. It'll make me feel really good. TTYL

Alphonso

PS. My contract with the Lion King has been extended until September!!!!! Plan your bus trips. Yeah!!!!!!!

From Bad to Good

Today was great. Well it didn't start great because my mom lost her phone on the train. Now she has to get a new one. (I think she's secretly happy about that) We had rehearsal for the two new actors that are playing Shenzi. They were really good actors. I was very impressed. Rehearsal was long today but I still had time to eat and play with my mom before call time. My mom and I went to the Chicken Bar for dinner. I had chicken finger and my mom had cheese steak. I liked the food. It was delicious. I wasn't on tonight so I got to leave at little earlier. I heard that someone is planning a "Trenton Goes to Broadway Day". When my mom gets the details, I'll post them. TTYL

Alphonso

Matinee Day

Today went by fast. In school we learned about time zones. We learned about USA time zones and world time zones. That lesson was fun. I was late being dismissed from school and we only had a short time before the train came. The secretary at my school dropped us off at the train station so we wouldn’t miss our train. I had a great show today. On the way home my mom and I caught the best train ever. It only made four stops. We got home really early. Today was great. TTYL

Alphonso

Hearts For Haiti

Today was a great day. We finished up on elapsed time in school. We also got a new student. She seems really nice. In art class we are painting and beading hearts to raise money for Haiti. The sale is called Hearts for Haiti. We are selling them for one dollar each. We sold over $47.00 already. I was really happy. At the theatre I hung out backstage going from room to room saying hi and having conversation. Overall this day was great. TTYL


Alphonso

Defying Gravity

Yesterday, I went to see Wicked again. This time our whole cast went. The show was still great because I got to see it from a different angle. I got to see many things that I didn't see before. I saw the show with my uncle. We had lots of fun.

Today was great. I left school early to finish my passport information. I can't wait to see it. I never had my own passport. That is going to be so cool. At the theatre, everyone was singing the songs from Wicked. I admit I was singing them too. Everyone was talking about how cool the show was. Niki was really being convinced to go and see it. Today we also met our new cast member. He was very friendly and nice when I said hello to him. Everyone knew him already, but he was a new person to me. Today went by fast. TTYL

Alphonso

I'm Getting My Passport

Today was an easy day. In school, we wrote stories and focused on elapsed time. The story is Grandma's House. It is about a restaurant called Grandma's House. I finished my story and added it to my big story folder. Our whole class wrote 8 stories in 1 week and this week we are writing 2 more. I can't wait. After school my mom and I got our passport pictures. I took mine with a big smile. I can't wait to see my passport. At the theatre, Shereen and I played Monopoly. We are still playing that same game ever since last Saturday. That is 3 days and no one won yet. Tomorrow we are going to continue playing. Also tommorow I am going to see Wicked again. My job had a lottery for tickets and I signed up. Everyone was a winner. I am so happy. This time I am going with my cousin. We are going to have lots of fun. TTYL

Alphonso

Receiving the Youth Leadership Award

Today I received an award for Youth Leadership from the Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. The ceremony was very nice. I didn’t really like the breakfast so the waiter brought me a bowl of Fruit Loops. Many prominent Trentonian faces were there. People like Mayor Palmer, Eric Jackson, John Harmon, L.A Parker, and many others. I got to walk in with the mayor and other executives. I felt very important.  For my award, I received a certificate and a check for my college fund. Then I sang after I gave my acceptance speech. After the ceremony my dad, mom, sisters, and I went shopping. I bought two pair of sneakers and they are really nice. Today was a great accomplishing day. TTYL

Alphonso

There are still seats on the bus for trip on March 14th. Please call 609-393-9993 if you would like to go.

A Quick Sunday

Today went by fast. We played Uno all day. We played so many times that I don't even remember how many times I won. After many games, we checked to see what time it was in the show and it was time to go up for the bows. Between shows my mom and I went to McDonalds and ate it in the lobby. The time flew by fast in the lobby. At the second show, our wrangler gave us cupcakes. I ate and vanilla cupcake with rainbow sprinkles and an Oreo cookies and cream cupcake. Today went by fast. I can’t wait to rest tomorrow after my awards ceremony. TTYL

Alphonso

I Met Whoopi Goldberg!

Today I had one of the best experiences of my life. I met Whoopi Goldberg! She joined our cast for one day only. She did some of the scenes in costume. She was a bird lady, Shenzi in a part of the show, and Rafiki in another part of the show. She was hilarious. All the scenes that she was in were funny funny funny. She said that manuevering the hyena puppet was harder than it looks. I got to watch all of the scenes she was in at the back of the theatre in the audience. At the end of the show we took a cast piture with Whoopi. She had lots of fun. I thought she did too. I can't wait to see the picture. TTYL

Alphonso

Wicked Was Wicked!

Today I went to see Wicked after the matinee. I was so eager. Before my mom and I went to the theatre, we went to get me an outfit for my awards ceremony and we had dinner. My outfit is based on the color blue. I bought a sweater vest to go with one of my dress shirts at home. The outfit is really nice. We went to Ruby Tuesdays for dinner. I was so hungry that I nearly ate my whole order. That usually doesn't happen. When we got to the Gershwin Theatre, I was excited to sit down. We decided to buy a hat before the show because at intermission the lines can get crazy. Once we sat down, I couldn't wait for the show to start. I thought the show was phenominal. The singing, dancing, acting, and the plot was all great. I was amazed at all of the effects. This was one fantastic day. TTYL

Alphonso

Lessons in Black History

Today in school we were learning about black history. There were some pretty cruel things that happened in the 1900's through the 1960's. We are doing a report on Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. We created information sheets and references on the computer. My report is almost done. At home, I practiced my song for my awards ceremony on January 18th. My mom said I did a fantastic job. I think I did well too. On the train to work, I did Study Island. I did Comparing Numbers and Frations and I also did Ordering Numbers. After a few tries I got the hang of it. I did really well. At work I took a nap. It felt so good just to sleep. After I woke up, I was fully energized. I played boggle with Ni ki and I played with the dogs. Today was great. TTYL

Alphonso

Frank the Forecaster

Yesterday was one of the best days ever. Between shows, my dad and I went to F-A-O Schwarz and I made a muppet. His name is Frank the Forecaster. I love it so much. Niki got really excited when she saw the muppet. Everybody thought it was really cool. Shereen said she was going to ask her mom if she could buy one. The show went well that day. Today, I got to play with my muppet even more being that I did the morning show. At the second show, I watched Circle of Life with Jen in the theatre. It was so different watching the show from the audience. I had so much fun. Today went by really fast. TTYL

Alphonso

I'm Going To See Wicked!

Today we had an early show. I did the show today. Everyone was saying things like it's about time you did a show because I haven't done a show since New Years Eve. It felt good to go on again. I brought a clock for the boys' room being that we don't have one. We always have to go to Niki for the time. During the second act, I played with the dogs. They were very energetic and playful. I had lots of fun. After the show, we had a rehearsal. So during our break my mom and I ate McDonalds and watched a movie. She also told me we were going to see Wicked. I always wanted to see Wicked! We are going next Wednesday. Then it was time for rehearsal. We rehearsed with the new Shenzi. We got out early because we only have one scene with her. Today was a great day. TTYL

Alphonso

Getting Back In The Swing of Things

Today was very different for me. I wasn't use to going to school because of winter break and I was totally out of it. I felt like something was off when I was in the car going to school. But my school day ended up being great. In school, we were studying Edward William Dolch. He was a linguist who created a list of frequently used words. The list had 220 service words and 90 nouns. When my mom picked me up we went to the school where she use to teach. She was giving one of her teacher friends a present. As we walked in the classroom, some of the students started pointing at me saying, "Simba!" Then they lined up all by themselves to get my autograph. My mom and her teacher friend were cracking up. My sister was also with us and she gave autographs too. I think I signed about 20 autographs. That was pretty cool. At the theatre, mom and I sat in the lobby before it was time for me to go backstage, and ate some soup. I had chicken noodle soup. I think it was the best soup I have ever tasted. Backstage another past Young Nala came to see Niki. She was a recent cast member. She was so happy to be there that she cried. She was lots of fun. During the show Shereen and I played Connect Four. It was fun and we played till it was time for both of us to leave. Today was great. TTYL

Alphonso
PS. Get on the bus and come see me do my thing on March 14th. If you're interested leave a comment and my mom will contact you.

Happy New Year!

Happy New Year everybody. This has been a great year. Many great things have happened. But there were also many sad things that happened. I want this year to be better than last year. I want this year to have more accomplishments than failures. My resolutions are to be less argumentative and be a good listener. I want to stay in my business and stay out of others. This year is going to be great. I just know it! TTYL

Alphonso