Asher Ghali has the formidable task of bringing the larger-than-life character of Genie to life in the school’s production of ‘Aladdin’. This week we asked how he is approaching the upcoming performances…

Have you done musicals before?

I’ve done a couple here at Mueller over the years – The Little Mermaid in Primary school and then Chitty Chitty Bang Bang in Secondary. I’m all here for the culture of musicals – everyone coming together to work on something, meeting new people, and there is always just a good sense of community.

What are you most looking forward to about the performances?

It’s kind of fun to be scared out of your mind! The whole process of questioning yourself but then getting into the flow of the performance and getting to do it beside your friends is what I look forward to because after that you get to take it easy and have fun.

What is the hardest thing about playing Genie?

He’s a very exaggerated sort of character and I’m more of a chilled person. I’m not naturally over the top like him but that’s the whole point of acting! He’s a fun character with a more comedic quality which I really enjoy playing.

What would you tell younger kids who dream of playing a lead role one day?

I would say just get in there and do it. I don’t necessarily have the talent of others in the cast but I got in there and auditioned and got the part. Even if you don’t have a musical theatre background or you don’t think you have the credentials, just give it a go. I encourage people to get involved in musicals just for the chance to do something fun with your friends. The camaraderie alone is worth it.

Which show do you think people should come to see?

The Friday performance is fun and exciting but the last performance is particularly great – performers really want to bust it out for the last show and give it everything they’ve got.