The Bluff all-rounder set to shine once again
This year’s Young Performers Project will feature its biggest cast yet with 170 children and two children mass led choirs.
THE upcoming annual Young Performers Project (YPP) is set to dazzle audiences with its ambitious production, Dream On: A Poppins Tale of Joseph, featuring The Bluff all-rounder Rory Booth.
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Booth, renowned for his versatility as an actor, singer and dancer, is preparing to charm audiences alongside other talented young performers at the Playhouse Opera with a unique blend of musical theatre numbers from July 5 to 14.
This year’s production will feature its largest cast yet, with 170 children aged five to 19 from more than 50 schools throughout KwaZulu-Natal. Additionally, this year’s project will also include a second child-led mass choir, which will alternate performances.
Booth shared insights into his character and the play’s storyline, which promises to enchant theatregoers of all ages. “In Dream On, I portray Brenton, a cleaner with a passion for show tunes. His character becomes pivotal when he suggests summoning Mary Poppins to assist a young show director in creating a production at the prestigious playhouse. Through a magical mix of props and ideas, Mary Poppins (played by Georgie Mabbett Kelly) unveils the perfect story, interwoven with the timeless narrative of Joseph, featuring beloved hits we know and love,” Booth explained.
Booth’s involvement in this year’s YPP production is not just about entertainment but also a personal journey rooted in his childhood passion for the arts. Reflecting on his career path, Booth shared, “I always knew I wanted to be an entertainer, regardless of which facet I ended up in.”
For Booth, participating in Dream On holds special significance as it is the same project that ignited his early passion for acting and music. “Being part of this project when I was younger helped solidify my craft and open pathways for me to grow. The project has also helped produce many other major South African artists,” said Booth.
He explained about the importance of representation in media, noting the scarcity of role models like him during his youth. “The lack of people who looked like me and talked like me in the media when growing up has motivated me to be the representation and inspiration for other young and emerging artists,” Booth stated.
The YPP’s Dream On: A Poppins Tale of Joseph promises an unforgettable experience, blending creativity, talent and the magic of theatre together under the bright lights.
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