(MENAFN- Gulf Times) The five performances of Beauty and the Beast by International School of London (ISL), Qatar's performing arts department cemented the school's performance reputation as 'the Doha musical production not to be missed.
Building on last year's stunning and acclaimed interpretation of the Lion King, the cast of over 50 students, including 20 primary-aged students in the choir, transported a total audience of over 2,200 people into a far-away magical world.
As the popular Beauty and the Beast song goes … ‘a tale as old as time, with a song as old as rhyme', the story unfolded with great panache, fun and vibrancy. The intricate and elaborate costumes further enhanced the faultless singing, dancing and acting performances of the students.
From the opening moment, when the curse is cast, until the final moving scene, the audience was carried along by the exciting, emotional and engaging action. Rousing numbers like Be Our Guest, Gaston and Human Again were complemented by the beautifully lyrical and touching Beauty and the Beast, sung with aplomb by an ensemble cast and choir who worked brilliantly together.
The combination of: talented and creative actors; uplifting and moving songs; sparkling and vibrant sound and lighting; deft choreography; stunning costumes; stylish hair and make-up; and skilful direction make this show so believable that the audience forgot that these were student actors and became immersed in a romantic tale in an enchanted castle and a rural French village.
This outstanding piece of musical theatre made fantasy feel real. The many romantic, comic and touching moments thoroughly engaged all who attended. The production was adeptly led by the very experienced Claire Daniels with the assistance of Ingrid Berry for drama and choreography.
Daniels commended the students on their commitment, hard work and sense of humour throughout the rehearsal period, which began last October.
Speaking after the show, Daniels explained that the purpose of a musical such as this 'is to provide a challenging and realistic performing arts experience which enables students to develop their skills and talents. She further praised the cast and multitude of supporters behind the scene support by saying 'The students certainly lived up to and surpassed our very high expectations.
The International School of London, Qatar has an outstanding reputation for high academic standards with the prestigious International Baccalaureate (IB) curriculum. The school is authorised to offer the IB Primary Years, Middle Years and Diploma Programmes (encompassing ages 3 to 18 years) and is accredited by the Council of International Schools, British Schools of the Middle East and the New England Association of Schools and Colleges.
MENAFN2504201700670000ID1095418547
Legal Disclaimer:
MENAFN provides the information “as is” without warranty of any kind. We do not accept any responsibility or liability for the accuracy, content, images, videos, licenses, completeness, legality, or reliability of the information contained in this article. If you have any complaints or copyright issues related to this article, kindly contact the provider above.