Local youth will take to the Sky Center stage this weekend as part of the Missoula Children's Theatre production of Aladdin.

The theatre company from Missoula, Montana is brought to Swift Current each year and provides aspiring performers with a glimpse into the world of professional theatre.

A large number of youths from kindergarten to grade 8 come out to audition each year and this year was no exception. According to a number of performers in this year's production, the experience is all about learning and fun.

"Cause I think they bring a lot of joy to the kids and help them with their acting. Cause it is a good experience for everyone to act. It is fun and it teaches me new things about acting when I get older. It is really fun and even if you don't get a role you can come and watch the show and it's a really good and fun experience."

Benjamin Yates and Hannah Keller are the directors of the production who say the story is close to the Disney story with a few changes. Instead of Princess Jasmin there is Princess Dory in addition to some penguins, a donkey and a goat. However, Keller says the theme of the story about being successful if you be yourself still remains true. Yates will also be taking to the stage in the role of the Genie.

Yates says they were impressed at the turn out for auditions in Swift Current.

"Both times in Canada, we had the most that we personally have ever had audition which was around eighty. So seeing eighty kids come out and knowing there is that interest and excitement for it is such a great feeling."

Keller says the theatre program is important because not every community has a drama or arts program so this might be the only time of year when kids get to be involved and everyone needs that opportunity.

Aladdin will be performed Saturday at 3:00pm and tickets are available at Pharmasave and at the door.