Passion for drama has landed three boys in the Chip as they take to the stage to play the part of the playful chipped teacup in Disney's production of Beauty and the Beast this weekend.

The three Maltese boys could not wait to stick their heads into the giant crockery-shaped costume of Chip, the adorable teacup that promises to steal the audience's heart.

"This is the best thing that ever happened in our lives," the three 'Chips' said.

They were picked from three different drama schools to play the part because they filled Disney's casting brief - cute and smiley.

Gianluca Mifsud, nine, from Stagecoach was the first to perform during the opening night last night.

Today, eight-year-old Sacha Tayyarbarnes, from Drama Troupe, will take over during the afternoon and evening performances and Harry Grima, eight, from Helen O'Grady, will star tomorrow.

All three explained that they loved acting and singing but were not too keen on dancing.

Luckily, dancing did not fall within the repertoire they had to learn since they will be spending most of the play wheeled around in a trolley with the giant cup-shaped costume on their head.

Although they are used to being on stage they confessed they are a little nervous about the performance. But their excitement and love for the spotlight outweighed everything.

"I love it when people laugh and applaud," Harry said. Sacha added that he enjoyed being on stage and being watched by an audience.

"I actually enjoy doing the stuff and acting," Gianluca added.

All are aware that they will be the cute element in the play and grin in satisfaction.

What else could they want? The boys featured in a Disney production are having the time of their life and will be the centre of attention - truly their cup of tea.

The show opened yesterday at 9 p.m. Today and tomorrow two performances will be staged at 4 p.m. and 8.30 p.m.