The parish priest from St Patrick's College Sutherland will swap his church gown for a wild suit set for the stage this week.
Father Dan McCaughan is taking part in an upcoming production of The Lion King with pupils from Our Lady Star of the Sea Primary School, Miranda.
He will play the lead role of Mufasa in the play, which will be performed at Aquinas College Menai on November 21.
The performing priest says working on The Lion King has been a gift.
"It has been a way of strengthening the relationship between the parish and the school community," he said.
"It gives the opportunity not only for the kids but especially the parents, to connect with a priest over something not specifically religious and thereby making the church more approachable when they have that desire or need to want to talk about something deeper."
He says the show's themes will connect with the audience.
"Fatherhood, friendship, loyalty and facing one's past, will resonate," he said.
"I really enjoyed the Lion King when it came out but doing the musical has really made me appreciate how beautiful and strong these themes are in the story.
"I really hope that all who attend the show have an incredible time because the students and teachers and parent helpers have put so much work into making it happen."
Music and creative arts teacher, Anne-Marie McAdams, says the colourful production will involve all pupils from the primary school.
"The production involves every student in the school - 444 students from K-6, and has been a community effort right from the start," she said.
"We have been rehearsing our main cast, vocal and dance ensembles since the beginning of the year.
"Our teachers and parents have also been involved through costuming, props, scenery, transport, backstage and ticketing."
She says the cast is excited to have Father Dan on board.
"We have been fortunate to involve the former assistant priest Fr Dan McCaughan in the production," she said.
"Father Dan is an extremely popular priest who has now moved as parish priest to St Patrick's Sutherland but he kindly agreed to being our Mufasa.
"He is an extremely busy man but has managed to fit in rehearsals to his busy schedule. We are extremely fortunate to have his fine baritone voice in our production and are looking forward to his portrayal of Mufasa.
"Having Father Dan in our production is a wonderful link with not only our parish but also the St Patrick's Sutherland community."
Tickets: 9524 5543.
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