A whole new show
We talk to the cast and Creative Team behind Claremont’s next big hit
Claremont’s shows are legendary: fun, engaging and inspiring. And the latest is no exception… Based on the 1992 Oscar-winning film and the 2014 hit Broadway show, Aladdin Jr. promises to be a magical-carpet ride of an evening that will transport you to a whole new world!
Rehearsals are already underway for the performances that will take place on 21st and 22nd February next year, with a special performance at nearby Sudbury Primary School on 23rd.
Judging by the number of people who auditioned for the show, it’s already proving popular. Over 120 students from years 7 to 12 tried for a place in the fifty-strong cast. They had to possess the ‘triple threat’ of being able to act, sing and dance… No mean feat! One of the successful auditionees was new Year 7 student, Shanel Singhawansa, who secured the lead role of Jasmine. On learning she’d got the part, Shanel said, ‘I’m very excited to have this new experience.’ Asked what she’s most looking forward to, she replied, ‘I think the best part is when the show comes together’.
Joining her in the cast is Allyzandro Rodrigues in Year 10, playing the title-character. ‘I didn’t expect to get the role of Aladdin!’ he says modestly. ‘It was a really good experience for me last year as I was in the Tech Crew, and this feels like another great accomplishment, getting this part.’
While the Art Department are busy building sets, the show’s director Mr Lipman and his team are putting the cast through their paces in the hall.
'We’re very excited to be bringing Aladdin to the Claremont stage next February,’ he says. ‘Year-on-year we continue to select shows which are ambitious in style and content, so we are looking forward to seeing our talented cast step up to the challenge! As well as our brilliant students, there are many members of staff who are busy working as part of our Creative Team, through musical and performance direction, choreography and set design. The audience are in for a real treat!’
With a few months to go until the performances, the excitement is already building. Will the Genie of the Lamp grant everyone’s wish and make this a dream-come-true show? With such a talented cast and Creative Team behind it, there’s no doubt!