“Order in the Court” — An Original Musical by Martin Luther School
Friday, May 16, 2025 — 7:00 PM — Soli Deo Gloria
On a warm May evening, the halls of Martin Luther School in Joplin, Missouri came alive with music, laughter, and standing ovations as students performed the world premiere of Order in the Court — an original musical co-written by MLS teacher Mrs. Lyla Glaskey and Caleb Paxton. This wasn’t a production borrowed from a catalog. It was a story born right here in our school community, performed by our own students, and brought to life by the creative talents that make MLS so special.
A Story Written for Our Students
Order in the Court is a courtroom comedy with heart. When the honorable Judge Justus takes the bench, the audience becomes the jury — complete with mysterious notes hidden under their seats and plenty of audience participation. The show blended humor, drama, and meaningful life lessons about honesty, forgiveness, and the mercy of God. These are exactly the kind of character-building experiences that define our mission to kindle character, spark joy, and ignite curiosity through the light of Christ.
The Gospel Hidden in Plain Sight
Look closer at the names. Peter Tent is a penitent sinner. Joshua Isaacs — Joshua is the Hebrew name for Jesus; Isaac was the promised son. Sarah Works represents works of the law. Judge Prudence Justus sits on the bench of God’s righteousness. Sam Shekel bears the weight of worldly commerce. Even the defense attorney’s strategy mirrors the gospel: he never denies his client’s guilt. Instead, he serves the sentence himself. “I only defend the guilty,” Joshua says. “And I always win.”
This is Law and Gospel in a courtroom. The prosecution builds an airtight case — and the defense agrees with every word. Moses takes the stand and testifies that “the soul that sins must die” and “all have sinned.” The mountain of evidence isn’t refuted. It doesn’t need to be. Because the real twist isn’t the verdict — it’s the discovery that the sentence has already been carried out. The fine paid. The time served. By the defense attorney. For his client. When the bailiff hands notes to everyone in the courtroom — judge, prosecutor, jury, witnesses — each person discovers their own guilt. And on the back of every note: Paid in full. That’s the gospel. Not just for Peter Tent, but for Sarah Works, for Judge Justus, for every person in the audience holding a note under their chair.
Original Works, Extraordinary Students
Martin Luther School has a proud tradition of outstanding musical productions. This spring, our students are performing Out of the Woods, a fractured-fairytale musical by Sharon and Don Turney (KidsWorks Music) — where Cinderella, Tin Man, Snow White, Red Riding Hood, and Goldilocks get their stories turned inside-out and infused with Biblical truth. And with Order in the Court, MLS showcased something truly special — an original script written right here in our school community. There’s something powerful about performing a story created specifically for your students — students see themselves in the characters, families connect to the themes, and the entire production becomes a deeply personal experience. Our performing arts program gives students of all ages the opportunity to shine on stage, build confidence, and develop as innovative thinkers and compassionate leaders.
More Than a Performance
Behind the curtain, weeks of rehearsals taught students about teamwork, discipline, and perseverance — qualities we nurture as part of our core value of raising resilient learners. From memorizing lines to building sets, from learning choreography to supporting one another through opening-night jitters, every student involved grew through the process. These are the moments that set Martin Luther School apart — moments where faith, academics, and the arts come together to fan into flame a passion for Christ that shines through knowledge, character, and servant-leadership (2 Timothy 1:6).
Watch the Performance
We’re thrilled to share the full recording of Order in the Court with you. If you weren’t able to attend in person, grab some popcorn and enjoy the show! And if you were there — we know you’ll want to watch it again.
Principal Mollie Ramstad gave closing remarks from the stage, recognizing the Paxtons as composers and — catching Mrs. Glaskey as she tried to slip away — introducing her as the writer and director of the show. Special thanks to the amazing and supportive teachers and staff of MLS! You are a blessing!
ACT 1
SCENE 1 — We meet the prosecutor and defense. “God So Loved”
SCENE 2 — Opening statements and an unusual plan. “God Has A Plan”
SCENE 3 — The first witness, Sam Shekel, testifies.
SCENE 4 — Miriam Meribah testifies. “Mountains Of Mercy”
SCENE 5 — Hazel Benjamin testifies, reluctantly. The prosecution rests. “Do You Trust?”
ACT 2
SCENE 1 — The defendant takes the stand.
SCENE 2 — The star witness, Moses, testifies. “Hall Of Faith”
SCENE 3 — Closing statements and the jury returns a verdict.
SCENE 4 — Good News for Peter, for Ms. Works, and for us! “God So Loved Reprise”
Copyright ©️ 2025. Music/Lyrics — Caleb and Erin Paxton. Book — Lyla Glaskey. All rights reserved.
This musical, including its script, score, lyrics, and all associated materials, is protected under copyright law. No part of this production may be copied, distributed, performed, or adapted in any form without the express written permission of the copyright holder.
The Arts at Martin Luther School
Music and the performing arts are an essential part of the MLS experience. Our students sing in chapel, perform in school musicals, and participate in music education throughout the year. We believe that the arts help students express themselves as God’s unique creations and develop gifts that glorify God and serve others. Every child at Martin Luther School is valued, known, and given opportunities to discover their talents.
Come See What MLS Is All About
Interested in a school where your child can perform in original musicals, grow in faith, and thrive academically? Schedule a tour to visit Martin Luther School and see our Christ-centered community in action. We’re currently accepting applications for the 2026–2027 school year. Our dedicated teachers and staff would love to meet your family and show you why MLS is the right choice for your child’s education.
Martin Luther School is a Christ-centered Lutheran school in Joplin, Missouri, serving early childhood through eighth grade since 1953. We are affiliated with the Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod (LCMS) and accredited through National Lutheran School Accreditation. Learn more about our history.