A surprise was in the works after months of preparation.

Now Macintyre High School’s very special school musical, with its polished dancers and singers, is ready for a stage dressed up in fairy lights and the glitter of Parisian magic. It all begins tomorrow, with performances through Sunday, August 2.

Director and producer Ben Daley put the production together like a puzzle, linking people of all ages and ability in one community effort.

“I’m thrilled. It’s brilliant,” Ben said.

Part of his design was to place seasoned professionals together with budding performers.

“We very easily accept the idea that a mechanic will go through an apprenticeship, before becoming qualified, and yet, when it comes to the arts, in a small town, sometimes we forget that,” he said. “But that’s exactly what we need. 

He said there are wonderful artists that live or grew up in Inverell.

“Let’s have opportunities where they get to come back and share those skills and lift the energy of the younger performers,” he said.

Featured artists include Josh Cunningham, Sally Sanderson, Eloise Collins, Laura King and Megan Longhurst and local ensemble The Gem Tones.

Ben said their experience has energised the students.

Former Sydney Opera House sound and light technician Martin Hansford said friendship with Ben Daley brought him on board.

“It involves community. It’s ex-students it’s talent from all over,” he said.

Spectacular opens for two school performances tomorrow and Thursday. Public performances are Friday at 7pm, Saturday 2pm and 7pm and Sunday at 2pm. Tickets are $20.30 and available at trybooking.com.au/hxan.