Grade 4 to 12 learners from Reddam House Waterfall captivated audiences on August 6 during their school production of Disney’s Beauty and the Beast JR.

Bringing together learners from across the preparatory and college campuses, the production showcased the collaboration, creativity, and commitment of the school’s performing arts programme.

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The production was brought to life by the school’s music, arts, dance and drama department, with a creative team comprising preparatory arts and culture director Tristan McConnell, Charlotte Tervit, Leandri Greeff, college arts and culture director Emma Campbell, Jenna Fieldgate, Hanre Holtzhauzen, and Cora-Mari van der Westhuizen.

“Beauty and the Beast JR felt like the perfect choice because it offers something for everyone,” said McConnell.

“It is a timeless story with unforgettable music, fantastic humour and meaningful themes of kindness, courage, acceptance and looking beyond appearances. Just as importantly, it provides opportunities for a huge number of learners to shine. From principal roles to the ensemble, every performer has an important part to play.”

Months of rehearsals culminated in polished performances featuring much-loved songs including Belle, Gaston, and Be Our Guest, supported by impressive choreography, colourful costumes, and memorable stagecraft.

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McConnell and Campbell agreed that the production’s greatest achievements happened long before the curtain rose. “Productions like this teach much more than performance skills,” McConnell explained.

“Learners develop resilience, discipline, accountability, time management, and the ability to receive and apply constructive feedback. They learn that excellence comes from consistency rather than perfection, and that every member of an ensemble has an equally valuable role in creating something extraordinary.”

He added that productions such as these help learners develop confidence, creativity, and teamwork in ways that extend well beyond the classroom.

Reflecting on the production, McConnell said seeing the learners’ personal growth throughout the process was the highlight of the experience.

“The greatest achievement wasn’t simply the final performance. It was watching our learners develop in confidence, support one another, overcome challenges, and take genuine ownership of the production.

Seeing how much every student grew throughout the journey is what made the experience so worthwhile.”

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