Alumni Return To Inspire Next Generation In Matilda The Musical Jr.

St Patrick’s College students have taken to the stage for Matilda the Musical Jr., supported by three guest choreographers who once stood in their shoes.

Former students Regan, Shontaé and Georgia returned to the college to help choreograph the show, bringing with them professional experience and a passion for giving back. Two of the trio previously performed in the professional Australian tour of Matilda, and Regan has recently departed for South Korea, where he has joined the international touring cast of Wicked.

“It was definitely a full-circle moment,” Regan said before his departure.

“I started out doing Matilda as a kid, and then I came back choreographing and teaching students at my old school.”

He added, “It’s so important for regional kids to see what’s possible. I studied in Melbourne for three years, which was already a big step, and now I’ve taken it even further.

“It’s a big change, but I’m doing something I love, in another country, experiencing new cultures and performing for new audiences.”

Georgia, who was invited back by her mum Tanya, the musical’s director, said it was always a joy to return.
“We all worked on it when we were younger and did heaps of workshops,” she said.

“It’s always such a fun time coming back, choreographing, and seeing the younger kids and the talent they bring.”

She added, “We used to have guest choreographers from St Pat’s when we were students, and it was always a fun experience. You’d learn so much from them — especially if they’d gone on to further study in the arts. Being exposed to that was amazing.”

“Obviously in a school environment it can be hard to come out of your shell, especially in a small town. But if you’re passionate, keep doing it. Take as many classes as you can with different teachers, jump at the chance to learn new styles and techniques, and just keep training.”

Shontaé said her own experience in the musical years ago made the return especially meaningful.

“I did the show when I was younger and had an absolute blast, so coming back to help teach is really exciting,” she said.

“If you’re enjoying it, you’re more likely to stick with it — and it becomes something you love.”

For the student cast, working with professionals has been both inspiring and motivating.

Elise Doherty, who plays Miss Honey, said, “It was a bit difficult at first being across two campuses, but now that we’ve come together at Studio 53, it’s been amazing to see all the work we’ve done finally coming together.”

Jackson Andison, taking on the role of Mr Wormwood, said, “Being in Grade 12 while doing a musical has been a bit challenging — juggling externals, assessments, and rehearsals — but it’s definitely worth it in the end.

“We’re really thankful to the professionals and our directing team. They’ve gone above and beyond to help us.”

Paisley Copen, who plays Matilda, said she’s “loved doing this musical.”

Choreographer and cultural programs lead Natalie Porter said Matilda is part of a long-standing tradition of excellence at the College.

“St Patrick’s has a long-standing reputation for amazing shows,” she said.

“You really do become a family in these groups, and the memories they make will stay with them for a long time.”

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