Before opening night, 550 students and teachers from 11 schools, and 150 community-supported members of the public, were welcomed to a special final dress rehearsal of Disney’s Beauty and the Beast at Adelaide Festival Centre. Another 280 students from eight additional schools are set to attend during the season.
This incredible opportunity, made possible through Adelaide Festival Centre's Arts for All centrED School Subsidy program and TIX for ALL initiative, was also proudly supported by Disney and the Adelaide Festival Centre Foundation, which generously covered transport for participating schools.
Students were deeply moved and inspired by the performance, showering it with 'chef kisses' and heartfelt thanks.
“It was beautiful!! This encouraged me as a musician (vocalist) to become a triple threat! The choreography was gorgeous ❤❤”
“I felt like it was the best experience ever, was a once in a lifetime opportunity, thank you…”
Educators expressed that the impact went far beyond the performance itself - it was a meaningful and lasting experience that will echo through their schools and communities.
“Firstly, this production was out of this world amazing! We are so grateful to be able to bring our students. Many students have never been to theatre let alone to the Festival Theatre…
We recognise the resources used to put in a show like this, the extra staff, etc to give us the opportunity to see the live rehearsal. It was seamless. These students will remember this experience for the rest of their lives, and it is my hope that they will share their experiences with their community and in future with their own families and take them to see theatre.
Students will use this performance to connect to their theatre in technology assignment, and their responding to drama. It helps to engage our students in the arts and see what could be if they work hard.”
Individuals and families from community-supported organisations - including those supported by the Cancer Council, foster care groups, multicultural communities and more - also joined the audience, bringing pure joy to their day with such an enchanting experience.
“What a wonderful opportunity you provide to people in the community. It was a truly memorable experience, thank you.”
TIX for ALL enables equitable access to Adelaide Festival Centre performances truly making the Arts For All.
Through Arts for All and TIX for ALL, Adelaide Festival Centre’s equity programming continues its mission to close the gap for South Australians missing out on vital arts experiences - experiences that nurture creativity, support positive mental health, enhance critical thinking, and cultivate emotional intelligence.
Disney's Beauty and the Beast
'Be our Guest' from 8 May–6 July '25 at Festival Theatre.
