Undersea adventure on stage

GIRTON Grammar Senior School students are ramping up preparations for their production of The Little Mermaid.

The musical will be staged at Ulumbarra Theatre on the evenings of Wednesday 19, Thursday 20 and Friday 21 June.

The ensemble cast has been busily rehearsing the show that’s set to include gravity defying aerial manoeuvres, more than 20 musical numbers, elaborate dance routines, stunning costumes and puppetry.

Girton’s head of drama Mandy Ellison said during several months of rehearsals many friendships have been forged among the student-led production, which includes 35 performers, a full orchestra, backstage crew, and make-up and tech teams.

“A theatre production binds the participants together like a family and is a memory that will stay with them throughout their lives,” she said.

“The students involved in the cast, orchestra and backstage have enjoyed collaborating with each other and their teachers to create something magical.

“Throughout the lengthy rehearsal process, the students can see and appreciate the growth occurring in themselves and in others through problem-solving, collaboration and commitment.”

Several cast members have recently taken on extra stunt training with instructors from famed contemporary arts company Circus Oz.

Ms Ellison said the use of aerial stunts will transform the Ulumbarra stage into “the underwater kingdom of Atlantica and truly immerse the audience in Ariel’s world.”

“The use of flying harnesses will allow the audience to see characters fly in the sky or swim underwater – it is a way of opening up the space and creating magical moments in this fantasy world,” she said.

“The students are finding it an exhilarating experience to be flying through the air while they are acting or singing.”

The Little Mermaid runs from 19 to 21 June with a 7pm start at Ulumbarra Theatre. Tickets are available via the Bendigo Venues & Events website.