Students from Stella and St Augustine’s College have been rehearsing the classic musical tale of love and redemption, Beauty and Beast since last year. The production opens on Wednesday March 7th at 7.30 pm then plays Thursday 8th March, Friday 9th March and closes on Saturday March 10th.
The students speak of the sheer joy of bringing to life this passionate story, peopled with eccentric characters, some less savoury – note the narcissistic, downright dastardly Gaston and his buffoonish sidekick, Le Fou – than the others who are intent on lifting the curse placed on the arrogant prince, now the Beast of the title. Like magical eHarmony, they work to ensure Belle, the headstrong heroine, held prisoner in the cursed castle and the Beast fall in love, the antidote to the curse. This is a musical so it’s no real spoiler to say they succeed. But how they tear at the heartstrings on the way. Bring a tissue. Bring two!
Students have enjoyed not only the challenge of bringing this poignant yet ultimately joyous, musical work to an audience and the pleasure they trust it will give that audience but of the enduring friendships that the rehearsal process has afforded them. The school play brings students to a rich understanding of what it takes to be part of a team working together towards a common goal – the commitment, the discipline, the development of skills, the negotiation of relationships with both staff and fellow students, all colleagues. And always, the joy.
Come and see Beauty and the Beast. You’ll kick yourself if you miss it.
Tickets are $20.00 each or $60.00 for a family ticket (2 adults/2 children)
