Ky stars set for Phantom
SEVEN Kyabram locals will be part of Echuca-Moama’s Theatre Company’s Phantom of the Opera production at the Paramount in Echuca from May 25 to June 9.
Sophie Miller will play Christine Daae, 16-year-old Charlotte Goode will play lead ballet dancer Meg Giry and Connor Deakin has landed the role of Monsieur Gilles Andre´ .
Connor’s mother Trish Deakin is part of the crew, taking on a co-production and stage manager role.
Liz Dillon and Chris McDonald are vocal tutors, while Mr Skye Candy’s Shane Armstrong has been employed to do the indoor pyrotechnic effects for the chandelier and the graveyard scene.
The production will be the biggest the Echuca-Moama Theatre Company has ever staged.
The story of the Phantom of the Opera will be told by a 47-strong cast, who, eight weeks out from performance, are ramping up rehearsals.
“We are still in rehearsals but around this time is when the 14 members of the ballet come and join the rest of our cast,” Trish Deakin said.
“This show really links the singing and acting in with the ballet dancing so to be able to come together and rehearse is really exciting.
“Previously we had been rehearsing separately, but it’s really important for the choreography that we now start piecing the show together.’’
Sophie in particular has longdreamt of playing her role.
‘‘Phantom is my number one musical and to play Christine is my lifelong dream,’’ Sophie said. ‘‘I’m just so excited to be her.
‘‘I just can’t wait for the first show when I can fully be Christine and be in that mindset. Then it will be real.’’
Charlotte is already defying the odds, playing a lead role at just 16 years of age, but she is determined to make the most of the opportunity.
‘‘I’ve been doing ballet for a fair while now and that’s what drew me to the role, Meg’s the lead ballet dancer,’’ she said.
‘‘I like that Meg is a lot braver and more clever than people give her credit for and she’s very supportive to people around her and generally wants to please everyone. Overall she’s just a really beautiful character to play.’’
The show will be performed 12 times, up from the usual eight, showing just how big this production really is.
“Actors come from as far as Bendigo to perform in a show like this and the three actors from Kyabram are really looking forward to it,’’ Trish said.
“Everyone is really starting to understand their role. Everything is pulling together.”
If you wish to see the show or support the Kyabram contingent in the production, tickets are available at the Paramount.