Logan-native Jackson Head will realise a lifelong dream as he hits the stage as Gaston in Beauty and the Beast at QPAC.
The former Park Ridge primary school student spent his childhood dreaming of such an opportunity.
“As an artist, you have low expectations but high hopes always,” Mr Head said.
“Every time I would see a Disney show come through, I’d always think, ‘man that would be cool’.
Mr Head has performed professionally for the past few years but said this was his first lead role.
“Which is really exciting,” he said.
“We’re bringing to life this sacred Disney story, so everyone in the cast wants to do their best every night.”
Mr Head has revelled in a return to his home state for the role.
“I’ve had so many family and friends come see the show, and my family is pretty big too,” he said.
“It has been really nice to get to see everyone, because as a performer you’re often travelling around the country and you don’t get to see family very often.
“I also got to see people I grew up with and trained with – it has been nice to see them too.”
Growing up in Logan Mr Head said he had a fulfilling childhood.
“My brothers and I grew up on acreage so it was always fun to be out in the backyard,” he said.
“My parents were pretty great; they pretty much just encouraged us to try anything.
“I had a go at a bunch of different musical instruments and did some dance training at a Logan-based company that no longer exists – Divine River Dance Academy.”
He said there “wasn’t as much of an art scene” in the city when he grew up.
“But from what I’ve heard and seen now there’s a lot more opportunity popping up for young performers, which is great,” Mr Head said.
This is the first time Beauty and the Beast has ever played in Queensland.
