After three months of rehearsals, the 83 cast and crew of Aquinas College’s Bugsy Malone production are rearing to go. The show, based on the hugely popular 1970’s musical gangster film starring Scott Biao/Jodie Foster, opens at Tauranga’s Baycourt Theatre this Thursday.

Busgy Malone is a triple treat; an all singing, all dancing, all acting extravaganza. Bugsy, played by Year 11 student Michael Graham, is supported by Aquinas College Head Girl Millie Elliott as Blousy and Jessica Robinson in the role of Tallulah.

Several trained dancers showcase their skills, but for many, being cast in the Show has brought challenges. When it comes to learning new skills ‘Fizzy’ played by Isaac Jarden, dons a pair of tap shoes for his very first dance solo.

“I’ve never done tap dancing before but when I got the role of Fizzy it was time to learn” commented lsaac, who played ‘Oliver’ the school’s last production.

Another highlight is a ballet segment featuring Matthew Karton, from the New School of Dance Associates programme.

“After months of hard work, we are really pleased with what our boys in particular have achieved” commented Choreographer Laura Mansell. “‘So You Wanna Be a Boxer’ is a scene set inside a gym that features 18 of the boys showcasing the skills they have learnt so far”.

The school is well known locally for putting on high quality of musical productions, having performed Oliver, The Sound of Music and Cinderella in recent years.  Directed by veteran Toni Henderson, Head of Music Lynda Cooney is the Musical Director, Laura Mansell is Choreographer and Teacher Helen Adams heads up Production.

“It’s a big show costume wise” commented Toni, “with many of the cast having up to 4 costumes changes, all 1920’s style. The audience is in for a few surprises too – splurge guns and pedal cars add to the glamour and energy of this classic gangster tale”.

Tickets are available from Baycourt on 577 7188 or through Ticketek.