General News
18 October, 2024
Spongebob comes to town
Order your Krabby Patties and prepare a trip to Bikini Bottom with the Maryborough Theatre Company this weekend as they present the SpongeBob Musical.
Based on the popular animated series, the junior stage show follows the journey of many fan-favourite characters as they aim to save their home from an erupting volcano.
“I think people can expect a very fun and colourful show, hopefully lots of smiles, some sad moments that all musicals need and I think it’s going to be a good show,” co-director Miller Tranter said.
“When I see a lot of these kids I see a younger version of myself in them because they seem so excited to get up on stage and I just love seeing new generations come and perform.”
The musical is the first time Ms Tranter, and fellow co-director Hannah Matters, will be in charge of a production, something Ms Tranter said has been a fun progression.
“I would always help my mum out with plays like Oliver! which she directed and I got given this opportunity and I went to Hannah and said ‘do you want to do it together’,” she said.
“It’s kind of funny because we did our first musical together and now we are directing for the first time together.”
Ms Matters said she has enjoyed the new experiences and challenges she has faced in her new role.
“Directing has been nerve-wracking and stressful, I’m used to being on stage and it’s very different from that,” she said.
“I’ve always looked at directors and thought that seems like a job that could be worth doing.
“I didn’t ever think I would be doing it this young, I thought I would wait until I was 30 but I think we are getting the hang of it.”
The musical is performed by the junior members of the theatre company, with cast members ranging from eight to 15 years old.
Speaking from personal experience, Ms Matters said being able to participate and perform in a show can make kids feel like the next big star.
“If I hadn’t been provided with the opportunity to do shows and start theatre, I wouldn’t have figured out who I am as a person,” she said.
“It’s so important for little kids to have this opportunity because it helps their confidence a lot — I have watched so many of these kids have their confidence bloom and it’s wonderful to see.
“I have loved being able to help the very shy kids like I used to be grow their confidence — it makes me feel really proud of how far they have come.”
The SpongeBob Musical will run three shows at the Geoff James Theatre at Highview College starting tonight. Tonight and Saturday’s show begins at 7 pm while the Sunday performance commences at 2 pm.
For more information, and to buy tickets, visit the Maryborough Theatre Company Facebook page to find the Trybooking link.