Milton's CWA hall has been filled with a bevy of children of teenagers growing in stature as they prepare for an upcoming theatre production.
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Since February a cast of 27, aged between seven and 18, have rehearsed twice a week for the Milton Follies' Anything Goes Jr show.
Newcomers Jack Foran, 15, and Jaya Pimm, 8, spoke to The Times during the fun Monday night rehearsal of American playwright Cole Porter's smash hit.
Jack, an Ulladulla High School who had only ever performed at school, said his Mum asked him to start a new extracurricular.
"I didn't want to play sport, so I signed up here," he said.
Jack said he made the right decision and has grown in confidence since joining the theatre production group.
"I, sort of, feel accepted here. No matter your skill, they accept everyone," he said.
"It's great, [to have] the ability to express yourself without being judged."
Jaya, who likes performing and acting, said she was encouraged by her dance teacher to join the Follies.
The Milton Public School student said she has missed a couple of rehearsals, but Follies has quickly become one of her favourite things to do because of the acting and dancing.
"I've missed a couple but I try to come as much as I because it's something I really like," she said.
The second youngest cast member plays a reporter and will also dance. She said director Lloyd McDonald and lead actress Maya Holstegge had helped her gain confidence on stage.
"The people are so kind, Maya especially. Lloyd helps us as much as he can," she said.
Jaya likes to read, but she has had some assistance with practising her lines including her parents and director Lloyd.
Jack and Jaya both encouraged any school-aged children to join the Follies for any future junior productions.
"I've made friends with a lot of people, everyone is really friendly," Jaya said.
The Milton Follies' Anything Goes Jr production runs for six shows from May 31 to June 9 at Milton Theatre. The musical comedy follows the journey of the London-bound S.S. 'American' revealing topsy-turvy relationships, mistaken identities and foiled plots.
Show dates: Friday, May 31 7pm; Saturday, June 1; Sunday, June 2 2pm; Friday, June 7 7pm; Saturday, June 8 5pm and Sunday, June 9 2pm. Tickets $25. Visit Miltonfollies.org or Akwa Surf in Milton.
