The Qatar Foundation schools production SHOWTIME! – returning this March – has inspired a resurgence in musical theatre in Doha, encouraging a new generation of singers, actors and dancers to take to the stage. Director Chris Piper is also back, bringing with him a wealth of experience in theatre, television and film – having worked on West End shows such as Charlie and the Chocolate Factory and Matilda.

Explaining how the aim of the first show, planned in 2020 but delayed because of COVID-19, was for it to become an annual event. Piper said the stage production served as a driving force behind the revival of musical theatre in Qatar.

After-school performing arts clubs have started to run through staff that were involved in SHOWTIME! initially, causing a sort of snowball effect in Doha – with the production serving as a foundation.

Piper said there is an incredible amount of opportunity within the performing arts sphere in Qatar and SHOWTIME! has stirred things up – lighting a fire of inspiration. He said that it was wonderful seeing how it has had such a positive impact on the people involved – how it feels like a truly worthwhile project.

More children participating

A clear indication of its popularity is the number of children taking part. This year, more than 260 students from a number of Qatar Foundation Pre-University Education (PUE) schools auditioned – including returning students as well as first-time participants – with the production set to feature 50 students and 15 staff members.

But musical theatre is more than just singing, dancing and acting. It isn’t just a fun and exciting extracurricular activity; it imbues and embeds so much more, like confidence and discipline. There’s so much more to it than just getting on stage, says Piper.

He said it can help stretch children beyond their abilities, or beyond what they think their limits are.

Piper shared that he saw people in auditions who are shy and afraid to try things, but as they progress through the rehearsals, they began learning so much about themselves, increasing their confidence and helping them overcome challenges. And even if they don’t go into performing arts, this has an impact on other areas of their life – allowing them to push themselves and exceed their own expectations.

I think it’s a really fun and social way to increase so many life skills. Also, this year we have different QF schools coming together, so students and staff members are meeting new people and forming new friendships.

Musicals at the Movies

This year, the theme of SHOWTIME! is Musicals at the Movies, with the numbers inspired by award-winning musical films or musicals that have been adapted from award-winning films. Additionally, the original song Now or Never by Qatari composer Dana Al Fardan will debut in the show, in Arabic and English.

Piper said that everything has been elevated this year – the choreographic challenges have been heightened, there is more detailed singing and the harmonies are being stretched.

I think the quality of the show has gone up a level, and I’m really excited for people to see this new incarnation of it.

SHOWTIME! is making an impact and making a difference, and it’s amazing to see this – from when they initially came over in 2019 for auditions and not knowing if there’d be an appetite for the juggernaut that it has become.

SHOWTIME! is taking place from 2 to 4 March at the PUE Theater in Education City. Tickets are available to purchase from q-tickets.com. Get more details here. 

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