Toowoomba streets transform into enchanting ‘Tale as old as time’

A unique event likened to an escape room, was held in the streets of Toowoomba’s CBD at the weekend with participating teams dressed up to suit the theme of Beauty and the Beast. See the photos here.

Beauties and beasts raced against the clock to reverse the curse in an immersive outdoor quest.

Hosted by CluedUpp Games, a unique event likened to an escape room, was held in the streets of Toowoomba’s CBD at the weekend with participating teams dressed up to suit the theme of Beauty and the Beast.

Among the fierce competitors on the day were Jordan Collins, 24, and Verity Russell, 17, who were drawn to the experience because of their adoration for the classic Disney film.

Jordan Collins and Verity Russell participate in CluedUpp Games Beauty and the Beast Experience Toowoomba. Picture: Kevin Farmer

“Growing up, Beauty and the Beast was always one of my personal favourites because of the magical story, which is actually also pretty relatable,” Mr Collins said.

“The character Belle is the odd one out in her society so she gets lost in the stories of books and is basically a big nerd – which I am too.”

Upcycling his costume from a Pride and Prejudice themed picnic he attended, Mr Collins said he had no trouble finding an outfit for the day, while other group members simply sourced pieces from their own wardrobe.

Ready for CluedUpp Games Beauty and the Beast Experience Toowoomba are (from left) Isabel Collins, Jordan Collins, Laura McDonald, Verity Russell and Heidi Houghton. Picture: Kevin Farmer

“I only found out we were dressing up last night so I think I’ve done pretty well considering,” Ms Russell said.

“The songs are one of the best things about (Beauty and the Beast) and we’re all pretty big music fans, but it’s also a pretty empowering story for those who don’t feel like they fit in because it shows there’s a place for everyone.”

Despite the team of five bringing previous escape room experience with them, Mr Collins said they were already at a disadvantage at the start of the game after he forfeited an exercise in an attempt to pause the game.

“I’ve already failed the first challenge accidentally so we’ll see how we go – we’ve left ourselves about two hours to figure it out,” he said.

“Another group managed to finish the entire game in just over an hour and that was before our team had even started.”

Getting into the theme are (back, from left) Tenille Mathison, Reuben Mathison, Ava Gaschk, Emillee Mathison, Sarah Gaschk, Islah Mathison, Mia Gaschk and Emily Gaschk with Kaleb Gaschk in front for CluedUpp games Beatuy and the Beast Experience Toowoomba. Picture: Kevin Farmer