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Little Anastasia Cast Revealed for Sydney Premiere of Broadway’s Anastasia

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Maya Porragas, Willa Valaris, Arianna Lorusso, Willow Wilson ANASTASIA © Cameron Grant Parenthesy 31 | Photo supplied by IP Publicity

Producers of the hit Broadway musical ANASTASIA have just revealed the talented young Sydney performers who will be sharing the role of Little Anastasia in the highly anticipated musical opening in April at the spectacular Lyric Theatre Sydney.

The local performers who scored the coveted role amongst many keen auditionees are Arianna Lorusso aged 9 and based in Beacon Hill; Maya Porragas aged 10 from Cremorne; Willa Valaris aged 10 from Allambie Heights and Willow Wilson aged 11 from Lisarow.

The crowd-favourite musical made its Australian debut in December at Melbourne’s Regent Theatre wowing audiences and critics alike, and is now playing in Perth. New tickets for the Sydney season go on sale today for the final performances from 8 – 19 July.

Time Out Melbourne called the musical a “charming theatre experience’” that was “destined to deliver theatrical magic” while The Music said it was “a theatrical spectacle that dazzles on every front and will leave you spellbound” and Beat Magazine said that the musical’s “dazzling Australian premiere is rich with powerful performances.”

These hugely talented young performers will join cast members Georgina Hopson as Anya, Robert Tripolino as charming con artist Dmitry, Joshua Robson in the role of antagonist Gleb, Rodney Dobson as Vlad, the much-loved Rhonda Burchmore as Countess Lily and theatre icon Nancye Hayes AM in the role of the Dowager Empress.

The ensemble cast includes Sophia Bae, Elliot Baker, Nicholas Cunningham, Davis Giotopoulos Moore, Todd Goddard, Stephanie Kurlow, Keian Langdon, Bella Minniti, Nathan Stafford, Alexis Van Maanen, Patrick Volpe, Annie Wilson, Deone Zanotto and Andrea Zappacosta with the swings team featuring Manon Gunderson-Briggs, Iosefa Laga’aia, Nathan Pinnell and Emma Russell.

Inspired by the mysterious tale of Grand Duchess Anastasia Romanov’s rumoured escape in the dawning days of the Russian Revolution, and the 1997 Oscar-nominated animated film of the same name, ANASTASIA has been brought to life on the stage by the Tony Award-winning creative team of Terrence McNally, Stephen Flaherty, and Lynn Ahrens.

ANASTASIA is a lavish musical for all ages, transporting audiences from the twilight years of the Imperial rule to the euphoria and exuberance of Paris in the 1920s, as a brave young woman named Anya sets out to discover the mystery of her past. Pursued by an army officer determined to silence her, she enlists the aid of a dashing conman and a lovable ex-aristocrat. Together, they embark on an epic adventure to help her find home, love, and family.

Directed by Tony Award-winning director Darko Tresnjak, ANASTASIA premiered on Broadway in March 2017. It received a Tony Award nomination for Best Costume Design in a Musical and won more than 15 major international awards, including Best Musical awards in Germany, the Netherlands, and Spain.

The book for ANASTASIA was written by the late five-time Tony Award-winning writer Terrence McNally, whose credits include Love! Valour! Compassion!, Master Class, Kiss of the Spider Woman and Ragtime.

Music and lyrics for ANASTASIA were written by the renowned writing team of Stephen Flaherty and Lynn Ahrens who have been referred to as “one of the greatest songwriting teams in Broadway history.” (Chicago Tribune).

ANASTASIA – THE BROADWAY MUSICAL

Produced by John Frost for Crossroads Live and Opera Australia in special collaboration with Stage Entertainment Productions, Tom Kirdahy, Hunter Arnold and Dan Hinde

SYDNEY SEASON DETAILS

Venue Sydney Lyric Theatre

Season From 7 April

Performance Times Tue-Thurs at 7pm, Fr-Sat 7:30pm, Wed 1pm, Sat 2pm, Sun 1pm, 3pm or 6pm (performance times vary each week)

Prices: From $69.90 (Transaction fees apply)

Bookings: anastasiathemusical.com.au or 136 100

Groups 8+ email groups@ticketmaster.com.au

Introducing Zara Griffiths: Get To Know The Rising Star Behind The Latest Issue Of StarCentral Kids

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At just 12 years old, Zara is already making a remarkable impact in the worlds of fashion, dance, and performing arts. Her career as a model has seen her grace prestigious runways and appear in numerous magazine editorials, showcasing versatility, style, and confidence far beyond her years. With every photoshoot and catwalk appearance, Zara proves she has the poise and presence of a seasoned professional.

Beyond the runway, Zara is an accomplished aerialist and acrobat. Combining strength, flexibility, and grace, she captivates audiences with performances that reflect both technical skill and artistry. Dance is another of her passions — she has competed at national levels as an elite dancer, earning accolades that highlight her dedication, talent, and expressive ability.

Athletics also play an important role in Zara’s life. As her school’s athletic champion, she has broken records and demonstrated exceptional physical ability, proving that discipline and hard work are key to achieving excellence. This combination of athleticism and performance talent makes Zara a truly well-rounded young achiever.

Zara’s love for the stage extends into musical theatre and acting, where her charisma and presence shine. She is equally comfortable performing in productions as she is hosting events, demonstrating a natural ability to connect with audiences. Her stage work, combined with her modelling and athletic achievements, underscores her versatility and dedication across multiple disciplines.

What sets Zara apart is not just her skill but her vibrant personality and commitment to excellence. She inspires her peers by showing that with passion, perseverance, and focus, extraordinary achievements are possible even at a young age. Balancing modelling, dance, athletics, and theatre, Zara exemplifies what it means to pursue multiple interests while maintaining grace and humility.

With a diverse skill set and a bright, engaging personality, Zara is more than a rising star — she is an inspiration. Her journey demonstrates that dedication and talent, when combined with heart and ambition, can create extraordinary opportunities. As she continues to explore new avenues in fashion, performing arts, and beyond, Zara’s story is one to watch, and her future shines incredibly bright.

Watch Out Hollywood: Kylee Levien Is the Rising Star Stealing Hearts

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Photo credit: Ethan Sigmon

Rising young talent Kylee Levien steps into a captivating role in the heartwarming holiday film Chrismystery, which premiered on Apple TV and On Demand on November 4, 2025. Playing Leia, the spirited daughter of Hallmark veteran Jen Lilley’s character, Kylee, brings infectious energy and curiosity to the small-town Christmas crime story.

The film follows former big-city police officer Annie Willows (Jen Lilley), who returns to her quiet hometown seeking solace and a fresh start as deputy sheriff after the loss of her husband. Annie’s grieving process is interrupted by a local holiday crime, and it’s Leia’s inquisitive nature and determination that become central to unraveling the mystery. Together, mother and daughter navigate the investigation while discovering the true meaning of home, family, and unexpected romance amidst the festive season.

Fans of Kylee Levien have even more to look forward to: in 2026, she’ll be starring in the Christmas horror film CATNIP, acting alongside Chevy Chase, Joey Lauren Adams, and Bruce Dern, showcasing her versatility across genres.

With her charm, talent, and enthusiasm, Kylee Levien is quickly becoming a name to watch in both family-friendly and thrilling cinematic worlds. StarCentral Kids recently interviewed Kylee, giving fans a behind-the-scenes look at her role, her approach to acting, and her experiences working on Chrismystery, and here’s what went down:

What was it like stepping into the role of Leia in Chrismystery?

Playing Leia was such a joy. She’s adventurous, hopeful, and has that classic kid-detective spark. Stepping into her shoes felt like returning to a version of myself that still believes everything is possible, especially at Christmas.

Photo Credit: Personal Collection

How did you connect with her curiosity and determination?

Leia has this really pure way of wanting answers, not to cause trouble, but to understand people and the world around her. I relate to that so much. I’m naturally curious, and once I’m passionate about something, I don’t let go. So it felt natural to lean into that energy.

The film captures a magical small-town Christmas energy. What moments from filming in Saint Joseph, Missouri, really brought that Christmas magic to life for you?

Saint Joseph honestly felt like a Christmas movie set even when cameras weren’t rolling. There were lights on real houses, wreaths on shop doors, and locals who were genuinely excited we were filming. My favorite moments were shooting our outside scenes with the tree lit or with the snow machine. People from the neighborhood came out just to watch and be a part of this magical filming experience. It felt like the whole town was part of the movie.

Photo credit: Cathryn Farnsworth

We’ve heard you have some funny stories about “small-town traffic.” What was the biggest culture shock for you while filming outside California?

Oh my gosh, if someone waved at you, they weren’t confused or trying to get your attention… They were just being nice. Also, I’m used to large numbers of cars on the freeway, but in Saint Joseph, “traffic” meant maybe… five cars. Total. It was the quietest, calmest filming experience I’ve ever had.

How did you prepare for a role that blends cozy holiday charm with mystery adventure?

I made two different playlists, one full of cozy Christmas music and one with suspenseful, detective-vibe instrumentals. I’d switch depending on the scene we were working on. I also watched some classic holiday mysteries to get inspired. Leia has to be warm and lovable but also sharp and brave, so I practiced balancing those moods.

Screengrab from Chrismystery

You worked closely with Jen Lilley, who plays your mom. What was that dynamic like, and did she give you any memorable advice?

Jen is the definition of professional. She made everything feel safe and fun. Something I carry with me from her is that the camera can feel when you’re thinking too hard. Just be present, and the audience will follow you. I used that every single day. She also made me laugh constantly, like between takes, we were basically our own comedy duo.

You go from a Christmas mystery straight into a horror film next year. How does it feel to jump from Chrismystery to CATNIP, and what was it like working with Chevy Chase?

It’s such a huge tonal shift, but honestly, that’s what makes acting exciting. CATnip lets me explore a totally different side of myself, darker, more intense, and definitely creepier. Working with Chevy Chase was surreal. He’s hilarious even when he’s not trying to be, and he gave me amazing tips about timing and staying relaxed on set.

Photo credit: Chrismystery [Kylee Levien with castmates Jen Lilley, Cody Mayo and Betsy Hume]

As a young actor with such versatile roles, what inspires you most about storytelling? Any genres or characters you hope to explore?

I’m inspired by stories that make people feel something, whether it’s joy, fear, nostalgia, or hope. I’d love to try a fantasy role someday (dragons, magic, mermaids, yes please!) or maybe an action adventure where I get to do stunts. Basically, anything that lets me live in a world totally different from the real one.

What does Christmas mean to you personally, and what do you hope audiences feel when they watch Chrismystery?

Christmas to me is about slowing down, being with the people you love, and finding joy in the small things. I hope audiences feel warm, hopeful, and a little nostalgic, like they’ve taken a trip back to a simpler, more magical holiday season. If they smile even once because of Leia’s journey, that means the world to me!

Welcome to StarCentral ZooniVerse: Where Music, Movement, and Magic Come Alive!

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StarCentral ZooniVerse is a vibrant, music-filled universe where animals dance, stories come alive, and children are encouraged to move, imagine, and shine. Created by StarCentral Media Group, ZooniVerse blends catchy songs, colourful characters, and positive storytelling to entertain and inspire young audiences around the world.

At the heart of the ZooniVerse are lovable animal characters—each with their own personality, rhythm, and world to explore. Through music, dance, and playful adventures, ZooniVerse promotes creativity, confidence, kindness, and self-expression in a safe and joyful environment designed especially for children and families.

Our content is thoughtfully created to be age-appropriate, uplifting, and inclusive, making it perfect for learning through movement, sing-along moments, and shared family fun. Whether it’s dancing along with a groove-loving monkey, bouncing with fluffy friends, or exploring exciting new worlds, every StarCentral ZooniVerse experience invites children to be active participants in the magic.

StarCentral ZooniVerse is more than entertainment—it’s a place where imagination grows, music brings everyone together, and every child is invited to dance with us.

“Star Wars: Young Jedi Adventures” Blasts Back onto Disney+ This December!

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Get ready, young Padawans — the galaxy is calling once again! Star Wars: Young Jedi Adventures is returning for its third season, and every episode will be available to stream on Disney+ from December 8.

Set during the exciting High Republic era, the series follows three brave Jedi Younglings — Kai Brightstar, Lys Solay, and the ever-adorable Nubs — as they learn the ways of the Force under the guidance of none other than Master Yoda. Together, they travel across the galaxy, meet new friends, and help anyone (or anything!) in need. It’s a show filled with teamwork, adventure, and heaps of heart — perfect for young Star Wars fans.

What’s New in Season 3?

This season promises even more action, surprises, and hilarious moments. In the brand-new trailer, we catch glimpses of exciting missions, mysterious planets, and some very cheeky trouble!

The Younglings will come face-to-face with Rek Minuu, a sneaky, mischievous master droidsmith who loves causing chaos. But don’t worry — they also make wonderful new friends along the way, including Dotti, a friendly shop owner known for fixing droids like a pro.

Speaking of droids, say hello to three brand-new robotic companions:
Beepers
Dozer
Gigi

With their unique personalities and skills, these droids are sure to become instant fan favourites.

A Star-Studded Voice Cast

Season 3 brings back an amazing voice cast, including:

Ja’Siah Young as Kai Brightstar
Juliet Donenfeld as Lys Solay
Dee Bradley Baker as Nubs
Emma Berman as Nash Durango
Trey Murphy as Cyrus Vuundir/Taborr
Gunnar Sizemore as Wes Vinik
Piotr Michael as Master Yoda

We also meet new characters voiced by Mason Wertheimer (Rek Minuu) and April Winchell (Dotti).
And as a special treat, Jamaal Avery Jr., who originally voiced Kai Brightstar in Season 1, returns to voice Padawan Kai in the epilogue.

Behind the Scenes

The series is produced by Lucasfilm together with Wild Canary, especially for Disney+ and Disney Junior. The show’s creators include Lucasfilm’s James Waugh, Jacqui Lopez, and Josh Rimes, with Michael Olson serving as showrunner. The animation is brought to life by talented artists at Icon Creative Studio, and the epic music is composed by Matthew Margeson.

Mark Your Calendars, Young Jedi!

Whether you love lightsabers, cute droids, or thrilling space adventures, Season 3 of Star Wars: Young Jedi Adventures is set to be an out-of-this-world experience. So grab your snacks, fire up Disney+, and prepare for take-off on 8 December — the Force is strong with this one!

Masks, Magic and Mini Models: StarCentral Kids Models Dazzle In Masquerade At Sydney’s Best Dressed 2025

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Sydney’s Best Dressed 2025 was an evening full of sparkle, style, and excitement, held on Saturday, 13 September at the fancy Sir Stamford at Circular Quay. Brought to you by MS Entertainment Network, in collaboration with StarCentral Magazine and StarCentral Kids, the event celebrated not just fashion but also creativity, confidence, and amazing achievements.

The doors opened at 4:00 PM, and soon the red carpet was buzzing with colourful outfits, dazzling smiles, and flashes from cameras. Guests showed off their best looks, from cool suits to stunning dresses, setting the stage for an unforgettable night.

The main event kicked off at 5:00 PM, and it was full of action! There were runway shows, where models strutted their stuff with flair and confidence. The award presentations recognised stylish individuals and community heroes who have achieved remarkable things in their fields. And of course, one of the highlights for many was the StarCentral Kids, who stole the show with their charm, energy, and confidence on the catwalk.

The night was more than just looking good — it was about celebrating talent, creativity, and the joy of expressing yourself. Families, friends, and fashion fans came together to cheer, laugh, and be inspired by the colourful displays and incredible performances.

By the end of the evening, everyone left with smiles, ideas, and plenty of fashion inspiration. Sydney’s Best Dressed 2025 proved that style isn’t just about what you wear — it’s about confidence, personality, and having fun!

Photos courtesy of Shrirang Khandekar.

It’s Official: Camp Rock 3 is Coming to Disney!

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Big news for Disney fans: “Camp Rock 3” is officially happening! Disney Branded Television has confirmed that the next chapter in the beloved Camp Rock series will premiere on Disney+ and the Disney Channel. The movie is already filming in Vancouver, and fans of the original movies have plenty to be excited about.

The Jonas Brothers are back! Joe, Nick, and Kevin Jonas will reprise their roles as Shane, Nate, and Jason Gray, and Demi Lovato will also return to help bring the magic to life. Not only are they acting in the movie, but they are also executive producing it, making sure the story stays just as exciting as the originals.

A brand-new group of campers joins the cast, bringing fresh talent and new adventures to Camp Rock. Liamani Segura plays the bold and determined Sage, while her easygoing brother Desi is played by Hudson Stone. Fans will also meet Rosie, a cello prodigy played by Lumi Pollack, the fun-loving drummer Cliff played by Casey Trotter, dance quee

n Callie played by Brooklynn Pitts, influencer Madison played by Ava Jean, and camp bad boy Fletch, played by Malachi Barton. Returning favourite characters include Connie (Maria Canals-Barrera) and a new character, Lark, played by Sherry Cola.

The story of Camp Rock 3 begins when Connect 3, the band Shane, Nate, and Jason belong to, loses their opening act for a big reunion tour. They return to Camp Rock to find the next big star. Campers compete for the chance to perform with the band, and along the way, friendships are tested, rivalries pop up, and even a little romance sparks.

Disney says the movie will feature amazing music, exciting stories, and unforgettable characters, keeping the Camp Rock legacy alive while introducing it to a whole new generation. Fans can look forward to chart-topping songs and show-stopping dance numbers that will have everyone singing and dancing along.

Camp Rock 3 is directed by Veronica Rodriguez and written by Eydie Faye, with choreography by Jamal Sims. Executive producers include Tim Federle, the Jonas Brothers, Demi Lovato, and several others who are making sure this new adventure is full of energy, music, and fun.

Get ready to grab your guitars, warm up your vocals, and return to Camp Rock — it’s going to be a summer of music, friendship, and unforgettable adventures!

Introducing Reeha Patel: Get To Know The Rising Star Behind The Latest Issue Of StarCentral Kids

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At just 10 years old, Reeha Patel is already making waves in the world of kids’ fashion, performance, and leadership. Petite and full of energy, this young dynamo stands at around 130cm tall, proudly rocking a size 9, but it’s her spirit, talent, and charisma that truly make her shine.

Reeha’s love for the arts began early. At six, she appeared on an episode of Play School during art time, showcasing her creative flair in front of a national audience. Just a few years later, she found herself on Channel 10 News covering Easter celebrations—a testament to her natural confidence and poise on camera.

While she may be small in stature, Reeha’s talents are vast. She’s a dedicated gymnast, competing at state level 2, and trains in Indian classical Kathak dance at an intermediate level, blending discipline with grace. Her passion doesn’t stop there—Reeha is also a fan of Bollywood dance, keeping rhythm and energy flowing wherever she goes.

The Photo Studio GLEBE; Fashion; Camelia Bejjih; Reeha Patel

School life is another stage where Reeha shines. She plays soccer, demonstrates leadership as Vice House Captain, and hones her critical thinking as a member of the debate team, with aspirations to study law in the future. Balancing academics, sports, and creative pursuits, she exemplifies determination and versatility, inspiring her peers along the way.

Reeha has also ventured into the world of pageants, winning a New South Wales title that would have seen her compete in the USA for Sunburst in 2024. Though she couldn’t attend the international rounds, her achievements highlight her dedication and potential in the competitive world of children’s fashion and performance.

Outside of structured activities, Reeha is just like any other 10-year-old—she loves dancing for fun, listening to music, making new friends, and playing Roblox, enjoying the lighter, playful side of life.

With her combination of talent, leadership, and personality, Reeha Patel is the perfect choice for StarCentral Kids’ cover. She’s a shining example of a young star balancing ambition with joy, and we can’t wait to see where her journey takes her next.

Freakier Friday Premiere: Hollywood Stars Shine at Event Cinemas Bondi!

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Photo Credit: Scott Ehler | Image supplied by Disney Australia

Hollywood stars Jamie Lee Curtis and Lindsay Lohan made a big splash on the purple carpet at the Australian premiere of Freakier Friday at Event Cinemas Westfield Bondi. Fans were super excited to see their favourite actors as they celebrated the new sequel to the famous 2003 Disney movie Freaky Friday. The film hit cinemas all across Australia and New Zealand on August 7, 2025!

In Freakier Friday, Jamie and Lindsay return as Tess and Anna Coleman, the mother and daughter who magically swapped lives in the first movie. This time, the story is about blended families, with Anna juggling life with her daughter and soon-to-be stepsister. Together, Tess and Anna find out that sometimes, surprises can happen twice!

Photo Credit: Scott Ehler | Image supplied by Disney Australia

The movie is directed by Nisha Ganatra and is based on the popular book Freaky Friday by Mary Rodgers. It features a fantastic cast including Julia Butters, Sophia Hammons, Manny Jacinto, and many more. Some amazing producers, including Jamie Lee Curtis herself made the movie!

Freakier Friday is a fun, fresh take on a classic Disney story that people of all ages can enjoy. Don’t miss out—tickets are still available for the movie’s release in cinemas!

Photo Credit: Scott Ehler | Image supplied by Disney Australia

StarCentral Kids Review: Madagascar The Musical Is a Wild Party You Can’t Miss!

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Get ready to clap your hands, tap your feet, and maybe even dance in the aisle — because Madagascar The Musical has come to life on stage, and it’s even more colourful, funny, and exciting than the movie!

During the July school holidays, we joined Alex the Lion, Marty the Zebra, Melman the Giraffe, Gloria the Hippo, and the hilarious King Julien for a big, musical adventure. They start off in Central Park Zoo, where life is comfy and safe… but Marty dreams of exploring the big, wide world. When he escapes, his friends follow — and before they know it, they’re on a crazy trip that lands them in the jungles of Madagascar.

From the very first song, the music is so catchy you can’t help but bop along. Alex has big Broadway-style numbers, Marty’s full of energy and fun, Gloria’s got sass and warmth, and Melman… well, Melman is one of the funniest characters of all, with his long giraffe neck and silly, nervous personality. And then there’s King Julien — short in height, huge in personality! He’s the party king who gets everyone dancing to “I Like to Move It, Move It,” and trust me, you’ll be singing it for days.

One of the coolest things about the show is the costumes and puppets. The actors look just like the animated movie characters, right down to Alex’s mane, Marty’s stripes, and Gloria’s tiny tail and ears. The penguins are puppets — but you’d swear they’re real! The puppeteers are so talented, they make the penguins walk, talk, and dance their way through the story, even steering the ship that takes everyone to Madagascar.

Melman’s costume is extra clever — the actor operates his long neck and head with a stick and strings, so his face can sing at shoulder height while the giraffe head bobs and moves above him. It’s so funny to watch, and it really brings the character to life.

The dancing is amazing too. Some of the costumes are huge, so the choreography has to match what each character can do — but it’s still packed with energy and movement. Every number is full of colour, rhythm, and laughs. Even if you’ve never seen the movie before, you’ll be swept up in the fun.

At its heart, Madagascar The Musical is about friendship, freedom, and finding where you belong. It’s perfect for preschoolers and primary school kids, but parents and older siblings will have a great time too. There are plenty of jokes, heaps of action, and enough toe-tapping tunes to make the whole family smile.

So, whether you’re already a huge Madagascar fan or this is your first time meeting Alex, Marty, Gloria, Melman, and King Julien, this show is a must-see. It’s bright, it’s funny, and it’s bursting with life. By the end, you’ll feel like you’ve been on your own holiday to the jungle — and you’ll definitely want to get up and “Move it, Move it!” one more time.