THE young performers of the Carillon Junior Theatrical Society are counting down to the unveiling of their latest production.
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With the excitement of a visit from Bathurst's Broadway star Ainsley Melham behind them, they are hard at work before the curtain rises on their show Aladdin Jr.
"Our cast of 68 talented, excited students, wonderful supporting characters and ensemble are busily rehearsing for their opening performance in just over two months," the Carillon Junior Theatrical Society's Bronwyn Colley said.
The "fabulous" leads, she said, are Max Kendrick playing Aladdin, Daniel Van Klooster playing Genie, Grace Egan playing Princess Jasmine, Will Arnold playing Jafar, and Laura Martin Clark playing Iago.
Ms Colley says the show is "full of colour and humour, with close to 200 costumes, vibrant sets, catchy music and clever choreography by fellow cast member Eve Summerton".
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Mr Melham, who has played Aladdin in Australia and on Broadway, and his partner Callum Francis, who has played Lola in Kinky Boots, answered questions and offered tips when they dropped in to talk to the young performers earlier this month.
Ms Colley said it was a "special treat and highlight of our rehearsals so far".
"Both men were a real inspiration for the cast, speaking of their experiences and offering words of advice and encouragement," she said.
Aladdin Jr aims to take its audience on a magical ride through the city streets of fabled Agrabah, Ms Colley said.
While "street rat" Aladdin and his mates steal food just to survive, and the Sultan's evil vizier, Jafar, plots to overthrow him, Princess Jasmine longs to be free of her royal duties and escape the palace for a normal life.
When Aladdin is tricked by Jafar, he finds himself in possession of a magic lamp and master to its captive - but all-powerful - Genie. Suddenly, he has a chance to change his life forever.
Tickets, which are now on sale, are available from the Bathurst Memorial Entertainment Centre box office in William Street, by phone on 6333 6161 or at www.bmec.com.au.
"Don't miss out on seeing this Disney favourite and supporting local youth theatre," Ms Colley said.
