Ararat - Ararat Musical Comedy Society's production of Disney's Beauty and the Beast opens next week and excitement is building among the cast and crew as costumes and sets begin to be introduced into rehearsals.
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This year the Society is particularly proud of the fact that the cast of 50 ranges in age from six to 70, meaning everyone who wanted to be part of the show had the opportunity to do so.
From the tiniest teaspoon in the huge production number 'Be our Guest', to some of the more 'senior' knives, forks and spoons, Beauty and the Beast will feature an array of weird and wonderful characters.
In addition to the Beast, played by Riley Mason, there will be Cogsworth the Clock (Richard Draper), Lumiere the candlestick (Derek Pope), Mrs Potts the Tea Pot (Kristine Hughes), Madame de la Grand Bouche the Wardrobe (Deb Slorach), Babette the Feather Duster (Jan Pope) and young Chip the Teacup (Jaelyn Brand) - plus a whole range of enchanted objects.
"Be our Guest is one of the highlights of the show," director Grant Johnson said.
"It features almost the entire 50-strong cast on stage who are all dressed in an exciting array of costumes.
"It is also one of the biggest numbers musically and the cast, under the musical direction of Leanne McCready, are sounding amazing with some awesome harmonies."
Beauty and the Beast opens at the Ararat Performing Arts Centre on June 21, with further performances on June 22, 23 (matinee), 28 and 29 (matinee and evening show). Bookings can be made at the PAC or through www.trybooking.com.
"This is certainly a show not to be missed and one for all the family - it's a fantastic fairy tale that everyone will love," Mr Johnson said.
