What makes a monster and what makes a man?
The Hunchback of Notre Dame is a sweeping, grand-scale musical from Disney Theatrical. Based on the 1996 Disney film and Victor Hugo’s 1831 novel, The Hunchback of Notre Dame tells the story of Quasimodo, the hunchbacked bell-ringer of Notre Dame, and his desire to one day be a part of the outside world.
When he summons the courage to attend the Feast of Fools, he meets Esmeralda, a compassionate gypsy who protects him from an angry mob. But at the same time, Quasimodo’s master, the archdeacon Dom Claude Frollo, and the new captain of the guard, Phoebus de Martin, fall in love with the beautiful girl. Adding to Quasimodo’s struggle is his punishment and derision from Frollo, following years of psychological abuse, and the danger posed by the gypsies, who are willing to kill any outsiders who venture into their secret hideout.
Before Paris is burned to the ground, will Quasimodo be able to save Esmeralda from Frollo’s lust and anger? Will she return Quasimodo’s affection? Who is the true monster of Notre Dame?
This musical is brought to life for its Australian Premiere, by the Toowoomba Choral Society Youth Choir for two shows only on the iconic Empire stage.
The beautiful music includes The Bells of Notre Dame, God help the Outcasts, Hellfire, In a Place of Miracles, Someday and many more.
Please note: The musical is based on the Disney animated movie but has been rewritten for stage as a new, darker version. It includes themes of faith, power, discrimination, isolation, and sacrifice but also offers a powerful message of acceptance through rich storytelling.
Billing
Based on the Victor Hugo novel and songs from the Disney film
Music by Alan Menken
Lyrics by Stephen Schwartz
Script by Peter Parnell
Originally developed by Disney Theatrical Productions. The Hunchback of Notre Dame is presented through special arrangement with Music Theatre International (MTI).
All authorized performance materials are also supplied by MTI (www.mtishows.com).
Producers
Leanne Peters & Sonya Herndon
Creative Team
Director – Harrison Paroz
Musical Director – Tonya Paroz
Vocal Coach – Martin Paroz
Costume – Leisa Johnston
Hair/Makeup- Lisa Volp
Sets/Props – Marcella Cullinan
Choreographer – Anthea Jones
Stage Manager – Britney Cawkwell
Cast
Quasimodo – Evie Heffernan
Frollo – Ryan Murphy
Esmeralda – Claire Tiller
Phoebus – Will Lydement
Clopin – Flynn Walmsley
Florika – Addisyn Herndon
Saint Aphrodisius – Will Anderson
Frederick – Hugo McLean
Jehan – Luke Parker
Father Dupin – Ben Thomas
And an ensemble of over 40 youth.
Thank you and Acknowledgement
This project was supported by the Toowoomba Regional Council Community Grants.
TCS Youth Choir acknowledge the support of Inland Rail for this production.
This project was also supported by a generous grant from
Bulk Nutrients.
DATE:
9th July 2022
VENUE:
Empire Theatres, Toowoomba
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