AS the curtains raise on the Young Performers Project’s latest production, The Prince of Egypt, three Bluff performers are ready to step into the spotlight along with 130 castmates.

The production is set to run at the Durban Playhouse Theatre from July 11-19. Siblings Camryn and Connor Linderboom, along with nine-year-old Micah van Zyl, are appearing in the musical. 

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The production recounts the story of Ramses and Moses, who, despite being raised as brothers in a privileged environment, find their paths diverge due to a long-held secret. One is destined for the throne as Pharaoh, while the other is tasked with leading his people toward freedom. The narrative explores themes of destiny, sacrifice, and liberation.

Dynamic sibling duo

Camryn Linderboom, 18, is enrolled at the International School of Performing Arts and her brother, Connor, 15, attends Durban High School. This marks their second collaboration with the Young Performers Project, having previously contributed behind the scenes to their December production of A Fairytale Christmas Carol. 

Camryn said her love for the theatre dates all the way back to her primary school days at Our Lady of Natal.  

“The school was doing a showcase of Annie. I auditioned for the role of Annie, and I got the part. I performed and realised that I love performing and from then all the way to matric I fell in love with the art. I took Drama as a subject when I attended Maris Stella and was involved in every play, production and project the school had to offer. Some of the highlights of my schooling career were being awarded best actress in 2023 and 2024, and being awarded honours for Drama,” she said.  

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Camryn attributes the sibling’s participation in the project to their family’s love for the performing arts, especially after seeing past productions like Elf: The Musical and Annie.

“It is a beautiful project because it gives those who want to pursue theatre an experience in a professional setting. I joined the project because I believed it would be a wonderful experience to be a part of a production with people who have the same passion and create magic on stage,” said Camryn.

For Connor, he enjoys the collaboration aspect of the project, making friends with other like-minded children.

A diva in the making

Meanwhile, Micah van Zyl, a nine-year-old learner at Penzance Primary School, is making her debut with the Young Performers Project. Although this is her first production with the organisation, Micah has spent two years at Box Studio, where she discovered her inclination for drama and music while gaining performance experience. 

Micah’s mother Cherazard van Zyl said Micah has always enjoyed music, dancing and performing.

“She enjoys being on stage and has the confidence to showcase her inner diva. The Young Performers Project has given her the opportunity to grow, learn and do what she loves most,” said Cherazard. 

Tickets for The Prince of Egypt are available for purchase through Webtickets.

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