MARLEE VAN DER MERWE – "Sharpay Evans"

After studying Entertainment technology at Tshwane University of Technology for a year, Marlee realised that she could never watch another show from the wings and watch other people living her dream. So she decided to move into the spotlight herself, and completed her NDIP in musical theatre at the same institution. Her singing, acting and dancing techniques were moulded by the likes of Ben Cross, David Dennis, Antoinette Kellerman, Johann Swart and Debbie Marriot Gush. During this period Marlee excelled in various areas. Her natural flair for choreography earned her a place on the FNB Dance Umbrella program in 2004 with the piece "Violence on Violins".

Her career received a kick-start when she became a member of the "Showboat" company, under the direction of Janice Honeyman, which toured Europe in 2006 and 2007. Apart from musical theatre, Marlee has also performed at various supper theatres such as The Barnyard, The Performer and Sound Stage as a front liner in Girl Talk 007. Marlee is a former member of the rock duo, "Corsette". Most recently, Marlee had the honour of being part of the cast of "The Full Monty" under direction of David Bownes. She is thrilled to be playing the role of Sharpay in High School Musical and she hopes that everybody watching will enjoy the show as much as she loves doing it.