Musical Theatre students from Queensland Conservatorium Griffith University (QCGU) have graduated straight to the Queensland Performing Arts Centre’s (QPAC) Lyric stage in a special presentation of Grease from 10 to 13 November 2021.
QPAC Chief Executive John Kotzas said the Centre was pleased to support the talented students from QCGU’s esteemed Musical Theatre program by providing a unique opportunity for them to perform on the Lyric stage. “We are committed to fostering and showcasing the rich artistic talent we have here in Queensland,” he said.
“We’ve long partnered with QCGU to provide performance opportunities for students from The Con (Conservatorium) at QPAC’s popular Green Jam sessions, our annual Spirit of Christmas concerts and our The Sky’s the Limit professional development programs led by high profile visiting international and local artists,” said Mr Kotzas.
“Taking to the stage of QPAC’s largest theatre will be an incredible experience for the close to 70 students. It is very rare that we’d have availability in our largest theatre’s schedule to enable us to give these future stars the chance to shine on the big stage and so this opportunity really is a silver lining in amongst the cloud of COVID.
“The QCGU Musical Theatre degree graduates are highly regarded within the industry nationwide. We have seen many young graduates go on to secure professional roles in major productions and I encourage audiences to support and enjoy this fresh take on Rydell High’s class of ‘59’s enduring story,” said Mr Kotzas.
Griffith University Vice Chancellor and President Professor Carolyn Evans said it was an historic opportunity for students to perform in the state’s largest theatre, QPAC’s Lyric Theatre.
“Griffith University is proud to partner with the Queensland Performing Arts Centre to present this exciting new production of Grease,” said Professor Evans. “This is a chance for audiences to see the next generation of musical theatre stars in the state’s premier performing arts venue.”
“At Griffith University, our world-class performing arts programs are training the next generation of musicians, actors and performers – using the arts to transform lives and create a better future for all.”
“Our program has a focus on industry engagement, and it is vital that our students build their professional networks and gain exposure to the industry while they study. Our longstanding association with QPAC has provided once-in-a-lifetime opportunities for our students.
“Queensland Conservatorium alumnus Shubshri Kandiah was discovered during a partnership program with QPAC and later made her professional debut at the Lyric Theatre in Disney’s Aladdin.”
“Our young cast is excited to bring this modern-day revival of Grease to the Lyric stage this November,” said Professor Evans.
Grease is the classic story of Danny, Sandy, the T-Birds and the Pink Ladies as they navigate the trials and tribulations of teenage life, love and leather jackets. Set to one of the most enduring, electrifying soundtracks in theatre history, these shows promise to be a rock ‘n’ rollicking good time for musical fans of all flavours.
Featuring the play from the original Broadway musical, and all the favourite songs including You’re the One That I Want, Grease Is the Word, Summer Nights, Hopelessly Devoted to You, and Greased Lightnin’, this is an opportunity to experience the Queensland Conservatorium musical theatre students as they bring their energy and passion to this electrifying musical classic.
Don’t miss taking a trip down memory lane with Rydell High’s class of ’59 for the iconic musical Grease, presented by QPAC and performed by the Musical Theatre students from Queensland Conservatorium Griffith University for six shows only. For more information and to book tickets, visit: www.qpac.com.au for details.
Image: Queensland Conservatorium Griffith University’s production of Grease – photo by Kenn Santos