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College Musical – Hairspray Jnr
College Musical – Hairpray Jnr
“You gotta think big to be big”
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“Amazing talent!”
These were some of the glowing responses from parents and the community after being entertained by St Aloysius College’s production of Hairspray Jnr, which ran for 5 shows in May. Set in the developing American civil rights movement of 1962, it follows the story of a teenage girl’s dream to dance and sing on television. In achieving this, she led great change under a banner of social justice, for race integration and acceptance of everyone no matter what they look like or to which ethnicity they belong, a story that is still relevant to today’s audiences. With skilled dancing, perfectly blended harmonies and fast-paced energy the cast of over 40 students from St Aloysius College left tears in the eyes of so many, either from perfect comic timing or sensitively and artistically sung solos.
Students received the best performing arts education with exposure to professionals guiding and mentoring them through acting, singing, dancing, audio and the latest digital screen technology, adding brightness and colour to the stage. The cast, ranging from students in Year 7 through to Year 12 performed to over 1,200 people. Opportunities such as this allow students to develop their creative talents, work collaboratively and learn from their peers.
The performance is one element, but those leading costumes, hair and makeup, props, audio and lighting were working hard keeping the show on stage. However, it was clear to any observer, that the staff leading the production, from actor to usher, donating so much of their skill and time, were teaching students more than performing arts skills. Teamwork, resilience, courage, self-discipline, collaboration and confidence are the traits taught that will carry all students involved in Hairspray Jnr through any academic challenge ahead.
Jodie McLeod
Community Development Manager & Musical Producer
