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ARARAT - If you've ever thought about treading the boards, then why not join Ararat Musical Comedy Society's production of the Disney classic Beauty and the Beast?
A familiarisation night and barbecue will be held on Tuesday night to provide interested people with all the information they need to be part of the cast or back stage crew this year.
Based on the Academy-Award winning animated feature, the stage version of Disney's Beauty and the Beast includes all of the wonderful songs written by Alan Menken and the late Howard Ashman along with new songs by Mr Menken and Tim Rice.
Director Grant Johnson and musical director Leanne McCready will help transport audiences to the heart of provincial life in a lovely French town.
The story begins when Maurice becomes lost in the woods on the way to the fair, he seeks shelter in an old castle, but the master of the castle is a horrible beast that takes him captive. Maurice's daughter, Belle, must then give up her freedom to save his life.
Belle's taming of the unfortunate Beast and his ultimate transformation back into a handsome prince has enthralled audiences for years.
It features dozens of wonderful characters including Belle and the Beast, Maurice, Gaston and his side kick Lefou, the Enchantress and Monsieur D'Arque and a host of enchanted objects from the Beast's castle such as Cogsworth the clock, Lumiere the candelabra, Mrs Potts the tea pot and her son Chip the tea cup, Babette the feather duster and Madame de la Grande Bouche, the wardrobe.
In addition there is a huge chorus of villagers and minor enchanted objects.
Beauty and the Beast will truly have a part for everyone!
The production will be staged over the final two weekends in June 2013.
The information night will begin next Tuesday night with a free sausage sizzle at 6.30pm at the Ararat Performing Arts Centre craft room (entry adjacent to the Ararat Gallery), bring a salad or sweet to share. Tea, coffee and cordial will be provided, BYO non-alcoholic drinks. The meeting will follow at 7.30pm.
All interested in being on stage or behind the scenes are welcome to attend.