Tuesday 15th June 2010 saw our Prep Phase children put on a musical production of Beauty and the Beast.

So much hard work had been contributed by our budding thespians to make this production a reality, and we were completely blown away at the talent, energy and emotion that our students put into this.

Despite all the hardwork, sweat and tears, Miss McCullough and I have to confess that we had a blast working with the children and putting together a dramatic performance. How often we spent an afternoon laughing at Mike and George who were so natural in bringing their characters to life; a perfect comedy duo. So at ease being in character that they added so many of their own excellent actions.

Melanie encapsulated a perfect maternal Mrs Teatime, while Kirsten was as cute as a button as Tink! Zach had us in fits of giggles as he would swagger around the stage as the macho and handsome but creepy Gaston, and Alex portrayed an amazing, attentive and caring father. Ashleigh flawlessly exuded the energy of the bohemian storytelling artist, and Prudence excelled as her adorable sidekick. The guards helped the story line flow with their colorful flags and narrative voices, the witches made a dramatic entrance and the once kittenish wolves finally found their scary side and had us all trembling in our seats. The villagers thrived on gossip and the chorus added life and cheer to the play.

Of course, last but certainly not least Alice and M’tume were the perfect couple, despite initially objecting to the match!! They had much to learn but were attentive student actors who improved at each rehearsal, bringing energy and humor, their voices always had to be strong, many lines to remember and actions that were fully out of their comfort zone but they really did make a fantastic Beauty and Beast.

After weeks of rehearsals the time had finally come. Behind the scenes nearly 60 children sat in full costume and make-up; nerves were building up as the teachers were running around frantically and the hall was filling with parents. The curtain opened and the children gave it their all, to be met with resounding applause and an influx of compliments.  It really was the best performance they had ever done, they gave it their all and made all the hard work so worth it.

Congratulations Prep phase, you made us so proud, you were absolutely fantastic!!

Helen Surgenor and Laura McCullough