The Young Performers Project (YPP) will stage the epic musical The Prince of Egypt at the Playhouse Opera from July 10 to 19.

Set against the backdrop of Ancient Egypt, the production follows Ramses and Moses, two young men raised as brothers whose lives are transformed when a long-hidden secret is revealed. As one ascends to the throne as Pharaoh and the other leads his people to freedom, both are called to fulfil destinies that will change history forever.

The production marks theatrical director Roberto Pombo’s YPP debut and features choreography by Evashnee Pillay, musical direction by Des Govender, sound design by Ant Govender, set and prop design by Nicolene Steyn, lighting by Evan le Roux and costumes by Kathy Singery.

A cast of 134 young performers from 42 schools will bring the story to life.

Now celebrating its 25th year, YPP has become a launchpad for aspiring performers, giving young talent the opportunity to work alongside professional creatives in a fully staged production. Previous productions include Shrek, Elf the Musical, Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat, Annie and The Little Mermaid Jr.

Based on the 1998 DreamWorks film, the stage adaptation features music and lyrics by Stephen Schwartz, the award-winning composer behind Wicked, Pocahontas and The Hunchback of Notre Dame, with orchestral music by Hans Zimmer. Audiences can also look forward to the Oscar-winning song When You Believe, made famous by Whitney Houston and Mariah Carey.

The season opens with a special relaxed performance on Friday, July 10, at 11am. Designed for audience members with sensory sensitivities and first-time theatre-goers, the performance offers a calmer theatre experience with adjusted lighting, relaxed audience etiquette and an opportunity to meet the characters before the show begins.

Tickets are available through Webtickets.