YOUNG actors have undergone a transformation to tell a tale as old as time.
Students at The King’s Academy, in Coulby Newham, are taking on roles as a beast, a teapot and a candlestick as they prepare to stage a Disney classic.
Beauty and the Beast Jr was cast before the summer holidays and students have been working since then to learn lines and songs ready for a three-night run next month.
Lewis Melvin, 18, of Hemlington, secured the lead role of the Beast, which he is combining with A Levels in chemistry, biology, psychology and politics.
He said: “It’s all about good time management, making sure I use my free lessons to study and work at home so I can fit in rehearsals.”
The demanding role also requires Lewis to wear a mask over his face. “The hair comes in two pieces that fit together and the mask is tight but I’ve got used to it,” he said.
Coleena Collins, 15, of Coulby Newham, was cast as Belle after auditions were held at the academy.
“It’s probably my last year at The King’s so I thought I should try and make it count,” she said.
The other students in principal roles are Rhys Williams as Gaston, Kirsty Gosnay as Mrs Potts, Tom Sutton as Lumiere, Rhys Lewis as Cogsworth and Ryan Clark as Maurice.
Director and head of drama Eddie Jones said: “We enjoyed doing Annie Jnr last year, it was a manageable show and the right length. Beauty and the Beast is a classic and has a lot of characters, especially for boys. As we’re seeing more boys coming through and wanting to perform it’s important to offer something for them as well as the girls.
“We’re seeing new faces every year and since September there’s been a lot of interest from our new Year 7 as well. The main roles were cast before they started at The King’s but they have joined the chorus and their interest bodes well for future productions.”
Teacher of drama and dance Danielle Dodsworth has arranged the choreography and the musical director is music teacher Eleanor Walker.
The cast will be rehearsing during the half term holiday and every evening before the show gets underway with a British Sign Language interpreted performance on November 9 at 6pm, followed by two 7pm performances on November 10 and 11.
Tickets are available from the academy in Stainton Way, Coulby Newham, or by calling 01642 577577.