CQU Aladdin theatre show students in crash course for directing

Queensland students have put Disney’s Aladdin production together after the show’s director unfortunate mishap with a stage prop. Read how the budding stage stars saved the show.

Theatre students discovered more than a whole new world in their Aladdin production.

They also got a feel for directing after an unfortunate mishap with a stage prop catapult them from the spotlight to the director’s chair.

When CQ University’s musical production Aladdin Kids director Dale Pengelly cut his hand on the wooden prop, the cast stepped up to ensure the show could go on.

Caitlin Rourke, Maclyn Scarborough and Katie Stoneman at CQ University’s Central Queensland Conservatorium of Music Summer Spectacular of Aladdin Kids. Picture: Michaela Harlow

Townsville student Maclyn Scarborough, 15, had scored the lead role as Aladdin in CQU’s Central Queensland Conservatorium of Music Summer Spectacular, and said Mr Pengelly’s accident gave the cast a key learning experience in teamwork and confidence.

“When Dale hurt himself, we all remember thinking- what are we going to do now,” she said.

“But it has actually been pretty great to be honest, because we have all worked together as a team and are closer because of it.

“We learnt the importance of teamwork and how we can build confidence in each other; we might be nervous getting on stage and performing, but we can come together.”

Director and choreographer Dale Pengelly said he realised the severity of his injury after a few of the students tried to pick out the wood pieces with tweezers.

Dale Pengelly internationally renowned choreographer, director and performer at CQ University’s Central Queensland Conservatorium of Music Summer Spectacular of Aladdin Kids. Picture: Michaela Harlow

“So I said to them, look I think I better go to hospital,” Mr Pengelly said.

“After the hospital visit they told me I had to go to the Mater to see a specialist and probably have surgery.

William Lees, Maclyn Scarborough and Robyn Diedricks at CQ University’s Central Queensland Conservatorium of Music Summer Spectacular of Aladdin Kids. Picture: Michaela Harlow

“This meant I was out of commission for a few days but they pulled it together as a team with the help of CQUniversity Conservatorium graduates and staff.”

Rural Biloela student William Lees, 13, played the Genie and said he learnt the importance of teamwork.

He said he enjoyed meeting like-minded children and was proud of their ability to put the show together amid the short time period and director.

“The amount of effort everyone has put into it this show is just amazing.”