A groundbreaking bilingual musical journey took center stage at P.S. 242 The Young Diplomats Magnet Academy in the heart of Harlem, Manhattan, captivating over one hundred students and families through the dynamic edu-musical Caccia al Tesoro -Treasure Hunt, written and directed by acclaimed Italian performer and educator Simona Rodano, also known as The Italian Fairy, the program marked a significant cultural milestone in promoting bilingual education through the arts.

Rodano collaborated with Principal Ms. Desjardins and Vice Principal Ms. Ellman to bring a full scale in-residency bilingual program in one of the many schools that hold Italian programs and are listed under the Educational Office of the General Consulate of New York, Director Daniele Castellani. One of the many schools was Simona Rodano and her team has worked tirelessly since 2006.

Over eight weeks, students in grades 3 through 5 became the protagonists of a unique learning experience, blending music, theater, and language acquisition in an immersive, creative setting.

“The arts create memorable learning moments,” said Rodano, whose company has engaged more than 90,000 students nationwide. “With Treasure Hunt, we are not only bringing experiential learning but we are inspiring curiosity, confidence, and cultural awareness.”

The program kicked off with teaching artists from the original cast of Caccia Al Tesoro - Treasure Hunt, who appeared in the Off-Broadway version in seven theatres this past Spring season bringing over 4,000 students to the theatre. Children at P.S. 242 realized they would soon step into the roles of singers, actors, and explorers on the junior version designed for schools as an exceptional bilingual theatrical quest.

With the help of a professional team of teaching artists who are native Italian speakers and accomplished performers—the school auditorium transformed into a vibrant rehearsal space. Twice a week, students engaged in choreography, voice training, and character development, all while absorbing Italian vocabulary and expressions embedded in the musical’s songs. The culminating performance featured high-energy songs entirely in Italian, while narration and dialogue flowed between English and Italian, creating an accessible yet authentic bilingual experience. Costumes, props, and digital backdrops helped transport audiences to a fantastical journey.

"The message of teamwork, perseverance, and peace in the world brought to our student by the edumusical resonates deeply with our students,” noted Ms. Dejardins, Principal at P.S. 242. “But the bilingual element added another layer of richness. Our kids were not just memorizing lines, they were learning another language through play and storytelling.”

“I don’t want this to end!” said Telour, a visibly emotional 3rd grader at the end of the show.

“Thank you for giving my son the opportunity to shine,” said Jayden’s mother, 4th grader parent. P.S. 242 teachers were deeply involved in the process, reinforcing vocabulary and helping students with scripts and pronunciation.

 “This company is so good at what it does!” said Mr.Dennis, a 4th grade teacher.” Songs are so catchy and perfect not only for the students but for teachers as well. I love when students sing!”

With the success of Treasure Hunt, Principal Desjardins and Vice Principal Ms. Ellman are eager to continue fostering bilingual arts initiatives: “This was more than a show—it was a journey our entire school community took together. We discovered that the real treasure was PEACE. A theme that embraces the entire world.”

As the curtain closed on the final performance, students took their bows to thunderous applause. For all of them it was a defining moment—one where language, imagination, and teamwork created something magical.

Caccia al Tesoro Treasure Hunt may have ended on stage, but its impact is just beginning.