Young thespians take centre stage to bring classic tales to life

Performers in the ‘Cinderella’ play.

FROM first-time performers to young lead actors, children from The Story Book Academy took centre stage at PJ Performing Arts Centre (PJPAC).

They brought stories to life through a theatre showcase that celebrated creativity, growth and the performing arts in Malaysia.

The showcase featured five productions – Toy Story, The Wizard of Oz, Cinderella, The Chronicles of Narnia and “Our Greatest Show” – performed by children aged four to 15.

The audience comprised families, educators, and supporters of the arts.

Many of the young actors in ‘The Chronicles of Narnia’ play are real-life siblings.

The young cast members demonstrated not only acting and singing abilities, but also confidence, teamwork, resilience and stage presence developed throughout months of rehearsals.

Academy director Jeanisha Wan said this was a moment of growth for many of the children.

“Watching them step onto the stage with courage and joy reminded us why giving children access to the arts matters,” Wan said.

The productions also highlighted the academy’s ongoing collaboration with Dignity for Children Foundation, through its performing arts scholarships to underserved communities.

Children as young as four took part in ‘Toy Story’ and ‘Wizard of Oz’ plays.

This year, scholarship recipients performed in both Cinderella and “Our Greatest Show,” with one student, Ethan, taking on a lead role in “Our Greatest Show”.

Wan said his performance reflected the impact that access, encouragement and opportunity could have on a child’s confidence and development.

“When children from different backgrounds rehearse and perform together, they learn far more than lines and choreography.

“They learn empathy, communication, discipline and to support one another.

“These are experiences that stay with them beyond the stage,” she added.