Last week, an elaborate stage set was coming together in the Bailey Auditorium at Manchester High School – it’s the castle where a prince who has been turned into a monster lives. CAST Children’s Theatre will present “Beauty and the Beast” there from July 31 to Aug 2.

The show is one of the biggest that the program has undertaken in recent years. “We have 110 students ages 4 to 18 performing in this magical fairytale ,” said Donna Mercier, who is directing the show, which is based on the Disney musical.

The cast includes Mike King as the Beast, Ted Zimnicki as Gaston, Nick Bayer as Lumiere, Lily Thrall as Mrs. Potts, Jimmy Donohue as Maurice and Lexie Bayer as Belle. “Every little girl dreams of being Belle,” Mercier said.

In the story, a vain prince refuses an old beggar woman’s plea for help. The beggar, who is really a beautiful enchantress , puts a spell on the prince and turns him into a hideous monster. The spell can only be broken when the prince can learn to love another, and she loves him in return.

Now in its 22nd season, Children’s Associated Summer Theatre is a nonprofit children’s theater program that was founded by Mercier. The program operates year-round , with more than 200 children participating.

While summer productions are held at Manchester High School, the program operates out of its own “black box” theatre at 113 Summit St. in Manchester . Past shows have included “Annie ,” “Mulan” and “Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs.” The program is supported by volunteers and fundraising events.

“It’s a tremendous effort, with many volunteers,” Mercier said. “Come and see for yourself how wonderfully these students perform.”

“Beauty and the Beast” will be presented at Manchester High School, 134 East Middle Turnpike, with performances July 31 at 1 p.m.; Aug. 1 at 7 p.m. and Aug. 2 at 7 p.m. Tickets are $12 for adults and $10 for children, students and seniors. Call (860) 649-5062 for more information.