Romance hits stage
Disney’s classic love story Beauty and the Beast will come to life next week when Mandurah Catholic College students take to the Mandurah Performing Arts Centre stage.
Drama co-ordinator Emma Merritt said the production had been 15 months in the making.
“It’s great to see the hard work coming to fruition,” she said.
“The (extra-curricular) musical combines about 40 students from Year 2 to 12, plus backstage crew, staff and parent support.”
Miss Merritt said the production was almost an exact replica of Disney’s animated classic, but with a few more songs.
She said lead actress Shania Eliassen, 17, was “wonderful” as Belle and made the musical “something special”.
Shania said she was excited for opening night on June 19.
“It’s a big responsibility to be the lead and to learn my lines for younger students to follow suit,” she said.
Support lead Brayden Hardingham, 16, said he had overcome his nerves while tackling his first acting role as the Beast.
Miss Merritt credited 16-year-old Grace Dennis on her effort to bring the evil Gaston to life.
“It’s been interesting to get in touch with my manly side and beating up (sidekick) LeFou,” Grace said.
Miss Merritt said there was one matinee and three night performances from June 19 to June 21.
To book tickets go to MPAC’s website.
