the Performing Arts.

This past weekend I was able to witness some of the Island's talent emerging.

For everyone who had the chance to see one of the two performances of Sleeping Beauty, held at the Ruth Seaton James Centre for the Performing Arts, I am sure we can all agree that it was a very pleasing experience.

The play offered more than just children acting on stage. It presented a life lesson which some of us may have forgotten as we get older -- its always best to listen to what your parents say.

What amazed me was that these young thespians had to learn this play in less than a week. A total of 20 hours were spent bringing this production to the stage.

Going into it I didn't know what to expect. But what I saw was a truly talented cast who were very convincing and roaring to go.

With the aid of The Missoula Children's Theatre actors and directors Kym Craig and Peter Maier, the entire cast deserves a pat on the back for a job well done.

As soon as the court Jester appeared on stage there was laughter from the younger audience members.

In particular I enjoyed the work of the two young actresses who played Sleeping Beauty, Jiney Caines -- playing the younger Sleeping Beauty and Shay La Whitter playing her older counterpart. Both held their own and had two of the best musical solo's in the play.

Another highlight was the dreaded trolls. Ever the skilled negotiators, they brought humour and wickedness to their roles. You have to have loved that.

The queen and king should also be mentioned, Roy Richardson as the ever tired king and La Taunya Griffin as his queen. It was clear to see who kept the kingdom running.

Did I mention that they only had three days to learn this play? There were so many good things about the play, and I can only hope these kids will be encouraged to continue with their acting, whether as a career or a hobby and given the opportunity to see where this may lead. And with all the negative emphasis often placed on the young, it's rewarding to see that there are some who actually transcend such negativity.

Programmes like the Missoula Children's Theatre make theatre going all the more enjoyable for the audience and the cast and I hope that locals will continue to support events like this.

The next production of this play will be on August 8. So for all who may have missed out this time, this would be a good opportunity to show these kids that their contribution are not in vain.

Someone once told me that Bermudians are natural actors.

If I had any doubts before, than they disappeared as I left the theatre.

Keith Ceasar