Becki Martin is usually on stage under the spotlight. But this time it's a whole new world for her as the 18-year-old steps behind the scenes to direct a production casted and choreographed by children and teens no older than 21.

That includes 17-year-old music director Sam Graham and 21-year-old choreographer Alex Hunter.

Tauranga Musical Theatre's ‘Aladdin' is at Westside Theatre from January 16-24.

But Becki's in charge of the final cut – and the 28 performers, aged 11-18, who will perform in Tauranga Musical Theatre's ‘Aladdin' until January 24.

It's her first time directing and she feels 'pretty good”.

'Being on the other side has shown me a lot especially how hard it can be,” says Becki. 'It's shown me that I need to watch what I do on the other side as well.”

Looking from the outside in, Becki says she's definitely one of the 'good” students.

Just like her cast. 'They're brilliant,” she says. 'They've had to be patient with me, but they've all been really supportive.”

They'll be bringing back all of the favourite characters in their stage adaptation of the Disney hit, including Aladdin and Jasmine, played by 12-year-old's Dom Pearson and Emily Davies.

Tauranga Musical Theatre president and production mentor Elise Rohde says this is the not-for-profit organisation's sixth summer youth production.

'Our summer youth productions are a proud tradition and I am always impressed by the calibre of talented youth we have here in Tauranga – ‘Aladdin' is one of the best.

'‘Aladdin' appeals to all ages, has a brilliant script, great songs – and like all Disney shows, warms the heart.”

‘Aladdin' is at Westside Theatre at 17^th Ave on January 16-24, with a matinee on January 24 at 2pm. Tickets cost $20 for adults and $16 for children available from www.iticket.co.nz or Creative Tauranga. Door sales available.