When our application to stage Disney’s enchanting production of ‘The Little Mermaid’ at Parramatta’s Riverside Theatre was met with success, I knew there was only one duo of artistic genius who could bring this magical tale to life: James and Callum Tolhurst-Close. With their unrivalled expertise, they assembled a remarkable team hailing from Newcastle, including the talented Harry Lyddiard (Assistant Director), and the choreography visionaries of Kristy Hooper (Choreographer) and Elise Simpson (Assistant Choreographer). Together, they formed a collective force that has made waves in the world of theatre. COVID-19 prevented James and Callum staging Kinky Boots for SYMT, so I am thrilled to work with them again. This extraordinary production of ‘The Little Mermaid’ has been the pinnacle of my role as President of SYMT thus far, and I owe it all to the incredible team who have made it possible. I would like to express my deepest gratitude to every member of the SYMT Committee – Bruce, Paul, Craig, Adam, Belinda, James, Matt, and Dylan – for their unwavering dedication and tireless efforts. I also want to extend a heartfelt thank you to our outgoing committee member, Claire, for her exceptional service to our youth. While bidding farewell to Claire, we warmly welcome Michelle and look forward to the creative contributions she will bring. Working with this cast has been an absolute delight - they radiate joy, energy, and a boundless enthusiasm that has made every moment truly unforgettable. Special thanks are in order for the masterful work of our lighting and sound teams; the creative brilliance of Belinda, James, and Michelle (and other supportive parents) in crafting exquisite costumes; Kirsten, our out of this world makeup; Kaz for supplying and expertly styling the wigs; Wendy’s attention to detail with props; and the exceptional set designs brought to life by Paul, Bruce, and James. We are also deeply grateful to Kent Powell for generously supplying the magnificent sets, Adam for his sensational marketing skills, Bob Williams for his remarkable set painting, backstage crew and Craig and Adam for their technical expertise. A huge thank you for the invaluable contributions of Grant and Adam capturing the essence of our production through their skilled photography and editing. I extend my heartfelt appreciation to the SYMT families who have tirelessly supported us in bringing this production to the Riverside Theatre. Without your unwavering dedication and assistance, none of this would have been possible. We are eternally grateful for the opportunity given to us by Riverside Theatre to showcase the boundless talent of SYMT. While SYMT typically stages two musicals per year, catering to our Senior (14 to 25 years) and Junior (10 to 18 years) members, we remain adaptable to the cast requirements of each production. Looking ahead to the 2024 season, we are thrilled to announce that it promises to be an exhilarating journey filled with excitement, magic, and extraordinary performances. Stay tuned for the 2024 season announcement! Chrissy Stimson President Sydney Youth Musical Theatre (SYMT)
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