By Shelby Brooks
Talented Officer Secondary College students will be spotlighted in September at the Victorian State School Spectacular.
Hailey, a gymnast, and singers Mackenzie and Abbie, along with a larger cast of dancers from Officer Secondary, will feature on the televised event, held at John Cain Arena.
Dance and drama teacher Jade Whitworth said she was beyond proud of all the students who would be appearing in the show.
Many of the students had successfully auditioned in the last two years, but the 2020 and 2021 productions had been cancelled due to Covid-19.
“Watching the performing arts students over the last two and a half years, it has been really challenging getting them in front of audiences,” she said.
“Performing artists only really develop when they get out there in front of an audience. For these three in particular, in front of such a large audience at John Cain Arena, thousands and thousands of people and all eyes on them. I’m just really proud of how well they are going to do.”
The students have been rehearsing weekly since March to get ready for the massive production.
“I know it’s very nerve wracking but I know they are the kind of students who will shine from this experience,” Jade said.
“I’m also proud of them for persevering and not just thinking, ’I won’t bother in case it is cancelled again’.”
Hailey will be performing as a solo artist in a routine featuring clubs, ribbons, ball and hoop, while Mackenzie and Abbie are part of the main choir and will help sing more than 15 songs.
Hailey, Mackenzie and Abbie wanted to thank their parents for getting them into the city each weekend for rehearsals. They were also grateful for the school’s support.
“Thanks to Ms Whitworth because she’s put all our talents on display for the school,” Hailey said.
“Without that opportunity to perform within the school, we wouldn’t have the confidence and the will to go and do this massive show in front of thousands of people.”
The 2022 Spectacular will be performed twice (1pm and 6.30pm) on Saturday 10 September at John Cain Arena.
Tickets are on sale now at ticketek.com.au/spectacular
