A Strandfontein village resident’s dream will come true tonight as she takes to the stage in a Disney production at the Artscape Theatre.

Playing the character of the Redeemable Villian, Cindy-Ann Abrahams also celebrates her 34th birthday today, Wednesday October 9, the opening night of the Disney’s The Magic Box.

The all-South African cast brings to life a stage musical that immerses the audience in an unprecedented theatrical adventure, including puppetry, elaborate costumes, and projections in an innovative and large-scale staging.

“For me it's a childhood dream come true. I grew up wanting to be a Disney princess which contributed hugely to my chosen profession and love for music,” she told the Plainsman during an email interview.

She said her godparents bought of the all of the Disney classics on VHS cassettes.

“Every Friday after school, I'd force my cousin to sit through Pocahontas and when he eventually got bored, I'd end off my marathon with The Lion King. This carried on for many years,” she said.

Ms Abrahams said she had come full circle, from the Disney her grandparents knew to the Disney her nephews know now, which is all brought together by “human magic”.

Her lifelong love affair with music propelled her to the prestigious UCT School of Music, where she honed her operatic skills.

Her performance as a semi-finalist in SA's Got Talent in 2013 marked the beginning of a dazzling career.

Since then, she has graced the stage in numerous acclaimed operas, from the classic The Rake's Progress to the beloved Le Nozze de Figaro and L'elisir d'Amore.

Her talents have taken her on an international tour with the renowned Evita Revival, including a run in China.

Most recently, she captivated audiences in the local musical Calling Us Home and the The Sound of Music local tour.

Ms Abrahams said her journey with the cast and crew has been an amazing experience. They have been hard at work since August.

“I find myself teary-eyed almost everyday. It's been an incredible blessing to be part of something this wholesome and fun, with a team so loving and supportive,” she said.

The show is a sensory experience that pays tribute to the art of animation and invites the audience to reconnect with the legacy of Disney music through the stories, songs, and characters that have accompanied them through the different stages of their lives.

The songs merge into an iconic original score and the characters come to life through various theatrical techniques, choreography, voice overs and performances of a South African cast of 26 top-notch artists.

It is perfect for families with school-going children, audiences can expect to be blown away by the innovative creativity, unique presentation, and the wonderful magic of Disney on stage in a musical including excerpts from more than 75 songs from Disney films.

The show run in Cape Town ends on Sunday November 10. The show is 90 minutes with no intermission. No children under 3 years are allowed and parental guidance is recommended. Weekday performances are Wednesdays, Thursdays, Fridays at 7.30pm; and Saturdays at 1.30pm, 4.30pm, 7.30pm; and Sundays at 2pm and 5pm. Wednesday and Thursday tickets cost R200, R250, R350 and R450; while Friday, Saturday and Sunday tickets cost R250, R350, R450 and R550.

There is a 20% discount on groups of 21 and more. Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday performances are only valid for the top two prices. Contact Jill Somers from 9am to 5pm on 079 218 1658 for more information.

For more information about the show or to book your tickets visit Disneythemagicbox.com

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