PROGRAMME WREST POINT SHOWROOM SATURDAY MARCH 19TH 2016
CONTENTS Introduction - from the Directors. . . . . . . . 3 Act 1. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 Flight Crew. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6 Act 2. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10 About Moonlight Aviators. . . . . . . . . . . . 12 Matthew Ives and his Little Big Band. . . 13 Blythe Tait. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14 PopEyed and Son. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15 Allison Farrow & Andrew Short. . . . . . . . 16 Ground Crew. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17
CONTACT US Moonlight Aviators is available for hire. Pop us a message or call the number below for more detials. Phone: 0412 345 678 Email: moonlightaviators@gmail.com. Web: www.moonlightaviators.com
Special thanks to our families for their continued love and support!
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FROM THE DIRECTORS We are delighted to welcome you to our debut, full-length performance … a la cabaret! It’s a huge step for us to go from ten minute sets to a two-act show but, with the combined backgrounds that we have, it’s a step that was going to happen sooner rather than later! In true Moonlight Aviators’ style, we’ve created two separate shows for you in just one sitting. Act One pays homage to Hollywood’s Golden Age - to all those guys and gals who were drawn by the glamour and stayed for the long haul. Some were lucky, some weren’t, but they all paid their dues, as extras or in chorus lines, until that legendary ‘big break’. Act Two transitions to vintage cabaret, combining a delectable selection of performances, from bold to comical, lyrical to sultry … and a few in between. We are also honoured to be joined in this endeavour by some of our friends already established in the industry, and for whose support we are most grateful! Matthew Ives has been a stalwart promoter of jazz and swing music in Hobart and has significantly contributed to the local dance scene, supporting the Aviators in particular. Allison Farrow was responsible for Moonlight Aviators’ first foray onto a professional stage by means of The Tasmanian Cabaret Festival. Mark Sands, of PopEyed fame, inspired Graeme to take up circus training during his highschool years, and these skills are apparent throughout all Moonlight Aviators’ performances. Blythe Tait, with her wealth of performance experience and ‘give it a go’ mantra, has been a great force of encouragement for us as directors and for the Flight Crew as a team. Which, of course, leads us to our dancers. We wouldn’t be where we are, or able to achieve our ridiculously high standards, without the amazing trust, tremendous dedication and crazy skills of our fantabulous Flight Crew. We’re sure you will all agree that they are, without doubt, the cat’s meow. But now, fasten your seatbelt, sit back and enjoy!
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PLAYLIST ACT 1 HOLLYWOOD, HERE WE COME! Charleston Time, Charleston Kids Alexander’s Ragtime Band, arranged by Matthew Ives YOU COULD BE A STAR! Let’s Misbehave, Elvis Costello IT’S NOT AS EASY AS IT LOOKS! All I Do I Dream of You, 2012 London Cast / Choreographed by Gene Kelly & Stanley Donen Ain’t Misbehavin’, arranged by Matthew Ives AUDITION TIME - Wish I Could Shimmy Like My Sister Kate, The Darling Buds of May CHAPLIN STEPS OUT Shake It And Break It, Sidney Bechet
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BIG SCREEN DEBUT, ‘The Aviatrix’ Charleston, Charleston Kids Basin Street Blues, arranged by Matthew Ives RECORDING VOICEOVER - Arthur in the Afternoon, Arranged by Matthew Ives / Performed by Blythe Tait / Choreographed by Kate Grieve LIVE STUDIO BROADCAST, arranged by Matthew Ives, performed by Allison Farrow & Andrew Short Let’s Face the Music and Dance, Andrew & the Aviators Cheek to Cheek, Allison & Andrew Miss Otis Regrets, Allison Something Stupid, Allison & Andrew Puttin’ on the Ritz, Allison, Andrew & the Aviatrixes BIG BREAK! - Undecided (One Girl & Two Boys) Arranged by Matthew Ives / Performed by Blythe Tait / Choreographed by Graeme, Bryce & Kara Martin with re-creation from the 1943 film ‘Swing Fever’ 5
FLIGHT CREW Bibiana Devlin From the ballet slippers of her childhood to the diversely styled shoes of today, Bibiana’s journey has been wide and varied. Not only did she cut her choreographical teeth in musical theatre, she has taught and performed in the Australian outback; assisted with and shimmied her way through community fundraisers; danced up a storm on the cobbles of London; and competed in the Australian Hellzapoppin’ Prize. As a handy additional skill for one of the cofounders and directors of Moonlight Aviators, Bibiana is also an avid costumier, sourcing and creating the variety of ‘looks’ you see here tonight.
Graeme Quinn Graeme has been dancing swing since late 2004 when he gate crashed a ball because the music was cool. He loves all styles of swing but Blues is where his inner-Patrick Swayze really steps forward, and with a background in circus acrobatics he is always keen to play with air steps.
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As co-founder and director of Moonlight Aviators Graeme brings to the ensemble his skills with choreography and also design, often working late into the night to create another signature set. He is always secretly pleased when asked to play the lower-status character (read ‘clown’) in any new dance creation. His favourite ensemble moments are when the individual creative ideas meet the skills and personalities of the dancers to bring to life a routine that wows audiences with its synergy.
FLIGHT CREW Kate Grieve At the age of 3, Kate pestered her parents to take her to dance lessons, and for the next 12 years she danced classical ballet, jazz and tap on a regular basis. Upon moving to Tasmania, as a way of meeting the locals, Kate investigated many dance styles, including salsa, contemporary dance, and tango, but it was the relaxed and footloose style of the Lindy Hop that stole her heart. With the playfulness and freedom of expression of the dance styles from the 1920’s through to the 50’s, Kate’s personality shines through. From sultry and provocative cabaret through to delicate and sophisticated performance, she’s got it covered.
Bryce Lockhart-Gillett A scientist first, then a dancer and now a performer. Bryce needed some gentle encouragement from friends to get into dancing and in particular to step out on stage. But that was a while ago. While it still comes as a surprise to many of his coworkers, Bryce has considered himself a swing dancer for more than 10 years now, and has danced, choreographed, performed, taught, and competed locally, nationally, and internationally. Bryce is currently the other half of the male cohort of the Moonlight Aviators. He prides himself on being nimble, bouncy, and fun to watch. Able to both lead and follow several dance styles as well as aerial moves, he is a versatile member of the squad - but he’s happiest when he’s dancing fast!
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FLIGHT CREW Veronicka Devlin Growing up in a household brimming with music and dance, Veronicka embraced the opportunity to sing with community choirs, and to perform with Hobart College and the Hobart Summer School. Unbeknownst to many, she is also an accomplished Irish Dancer, donning huge wigs and short dresses to compete at both state and national levels. Veronicka’s involvement with Moonlight Aviators goes right back to the very beginning, when her quick adaptability, quirky characterisation and comic timing cemented her a place on the crew. With her experience in modelling as well as hair and make-up for theatre, Veronicka is Moonlight Aviators’ unofficial chief hair-stylist and make-up consultant.
Amanda Devlin Having been born into a family of dancers, it is no wonder Amanda has taken performing in her stride. From Scottish Country dancing to Irish dancing, she has choreographed and executed solo and group performances and competed in Irish Dancing National Championships. Along with her natural stage presence and sultry demeanor, Amanda makes the vintage styling seem as beautiful and natural - as if she sashayed straight from the jazz era. She has always loved dressing up, and has strong memories of playing with her grandmother’s pearls and feather fans. It’s no wonder then that she exudes the Moonlight Aviators’ signature flair and excitement.
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FLIGHT CREW GUESTS Helen Kershaw
Dancing since she could walk, Helen Kershaw was born and raised in Hobart training in jazz, tap, ballet and contemporary at Encore Dance and Theatre school. In 2009 Helen accepted a place at the prestigious Bachelor of Dance course at Western Australian Academy of Performing Arts (WAAPA). Since returning to her home town of Hobart, Helen is a freelance dance teacher and performer ... and her toes never stop tapping!
Duncan Robinson
Pre-swing, Duncan had never considered dancing, but when he happened upon the first Lindy Hop workshop in Tasmania he discovered something that combined his love of music and artistic expression. That was sixteen years ago, which means the dance shoes have seen a fair amount of action in that time. Even though he is a casual Aviator, Duncan is easily dragged out of the hanger to join in on some formation flying!
Jessie Martinovich
With a varied background of dancing experience, Jessie Martinovich joins Moonlight Aviators for a comeback performance after retiring late last year. Her involvement in the arts includes ballet, jazz, hip-hop, Irish dancing and participation in musicals throughout high school. With this passion for performing, Jessie couldn’t resist the opportunity to support Moonlight Aviators in their Opening Night!
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PLAYLIST ACT 2 AMERICANA Soda Pop, Robbie Williams Sweet Georgia Brown, arranged by Matthew Ives TWO BOYS So Geht Das Jede Nacht, Ralf Bendix / Choreographed by Bryce Lockhart-Gillett & Graeme Quinn Maiden Voyage, arranged by Matthew Ives MERMAIDS Claire De Lune, arranged by Larry Adler Choreographed by Bibiana Devlin and the Aviatrixes Summertime, arranged by Matthew Ives
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LIGHT DANCE It’s a Man’s Man’s Man’s World, Scott Bradlee’s Postmodern Jukebox with Morgan James / Concept by Graeme Quinn / Choreographed by Kate Grieve ACROBATIC SPECTACULAR - PopEyed & Son A TOUCH OF BURLESQUE Harlem Nocturne, Conrad Korsch / Choreographed by Kate Grieve and the Aviatrixes SURPRISE! I Wanna Be Like You, arranged by Matthew Ives / Performed by Graeme & Bryce A LITTLE CABARET Mein Herr, arranged by Matthew Ives / Performed by Blythe Tait and the Aviatrixes Sing Sing Sing, arranged by Matthew Ives FINALE - Shout And Feel It, Swing Kids CURTAIN CALLS Alexander’s Ragtime Band, arranged by Matthew Ives 11
ABOUT MOONLIGHT AVIATORS Several years ago, Graeme and Bibiana performed a few routines at one of the ‘Monday Music & Mirth’ events coordinated by Michael Colrain and Ken Short right here at the Wrest Point Casino Showroom! With a selection of dances including a swing standard, a slow blues and a theatrical number, the feedback indicated a strong preference for theatricality. And from this small beginning, Moonlight Aviators was born. Following up on this, additional dancers were enlisted, new routines choreographed, and performances embarked upon. With an uneven ratio of guys to gals, the Moonlight Aviators has deviated from the traditional partnered dancing of its origins to develop chorus-line and showcase numbers that play to the strengths of the Flight Crew. Moonlight Aviators aims to entertain - and we hope to capture and engage you with our first stage show!
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PIANO/A THOMASCCWOERDION BSTER
CLARINET/SAXOPHONE DEREK GRICE
BANNISTER
Matthew Ives and his Little Big Band are a collective of local instrumentalists headed by Big Band leader Matthew Ives. Put together especially for Opening Night, the Little Big Band consists of some of the finest musos around town and features Tasmania’s own Benny Goodman out the front – Derek Grice on Clarinet. This 5-piece swingin’ ensemble will have you foot-tappin’ and finger-pattin’ all through the music that backs the Moonlight Aviators.
TRUMPET - ALEX ‘AB’
N PARKINSON DOUBLE BASS - BRIA
DRUMS - MATTHEW
IVES
MATTHEW IVES AND HIS LITTLE BIG BAND
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BLYTHE TAIT Virtually unknown to Tasmanian audiences, Blythe is an accomplished entertainer and has been performing as a soloist since her early twenties. Possessing an unidentified connection to circus, Blythe unknowingly developed a particular fondness for performing in themed events – inspired by such opportunities as being a mermaid in shell and an angel on a highwire, as well as the experience of working with a live, two metre python. Unable to resist opportunity’s call, Blythe has travelled Australia, singing everything from classical to rock, and with the backing of 12-piece bands through to selfaccompaniment on the harp. As well as being a talented and versatile performer, Blythe is also a National Champion pole dancer and a qualified coach for Men’s gymnastics!
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POPEYED & SON Jiemba and Mark have been performing together since Jiemba was born. The ‘PopEyed and Son’ duo began back in 2012 when Jiemba urgently took the place of Mark’s partner Rudi (who needed shoulder surgery) just before a gig in Japan. PopEyed and Son’s performance draws from Mark’s extensive acrobatic background and Jiemba’s passion for martial arts and stunt work. These skills combined with the essence of being an actual father and son duo make for a dynamic and unique performance.
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ALLISON FARROW & ANDREW SHORT Known as the gorgeous couple behind the Festival of Voices perennial sell-out event, Afternoon at the Ritz, and as the young lovers in both Les Miserables and The Phantom of the Opera, Allison and Andrew are both local artists with extensive lists of credits streaming behind them. Allison has enjoyed a successful and varied career as a singer, actress and, more recently, as a producer and director. Performing throughout Australia, the United Kingdom, Europe and Asia, Allison’s credits include music theatre, opera, cabaret, drama, film and concert work. Playing to popular and critical acclaim, Allison’s one-woman cabarets have resulted in performances at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival, the recording of an album, and invitations to a huge selection of festivals and events. Andrew is one of Tasmania’s great exports who has now – thankfully – returned home. After a decade spent in the UK, Andrew holds a Masters degree from the Royal Scottish Academy of Music and Drama in Edinburgh, as well as a vast repertoire of UK theatre productions including ‘The Little Shop of Horrors’, ‘Far From the Madding Crowd,’ ‘Company’, ‘Passion’, ‘The Frog Prince’ and ‘Once Upon a Time in New Jersey’.
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GROUND CREW Direction & Staging. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Graeme Quinn & Bibiana Devlin Choreography. . . . . . . . . . . . Graeme, Bibiana & the Aviators (unless indicated) Musical Direction. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Matthew Ives Set Design & Construction. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Graeme Quinn Costume Design & Realisation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Bibiana Devlin Lighting Design. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Graeme Quinn Sound Design. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Graeme Quinn Hair & Make-up Design. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Veronicka Devlin Print Media & Programme Design. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Kim Maisch Musical Arramgements. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Matthew Ives Directorial Support. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Wendy Usher Vocal Coaching. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Suze Ellis & Stephanie McCorkelle Lighting Operation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Matt Andrewarthur, Alive Technologies Sound Operation. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . James Davidson, Alive Technologies Stage Management. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Helen Kershaw Front of House Captain. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Elise Hill Front of House Attendants . . . Philippa Devlin, Melanie Sadler, Anna McGoldrick Costume Assistants. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Lois Quinn, Peter Edwards Videography. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Hamish McGregor Photography. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Belle Clark Publicity. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . the Aviators 17
THANK YOU FOR ATTENDING. WE HOPE YOU ENJOY THE SHOW.
HAMISH MACGREGOR VIDEOGR APHY