Completely student led and student run, Proserpine State High School’s Seagrass Theatre and Music Company is gearing up for their 2024 production, reaching for new heights of performance, choreography, vocals, and costuming.
With over 90 students involved, including on stage, backstage, technical, front of house, and in the orchestra, the Seagrass Theatre and Music Company will be performing the inspiring ‘Joseph and the Amazing Technicolour Dreamcoat’.
Established in 2021, Seagrass allows students to explore the whole theatre experience, and provides them with the opportunity to be in a production outside of the bi-annual whole-school musicals.
“Our passion for the theatre really led Seagrass to what it is today,” explained Year 11 student Allegra Bradley, the productions Head of Promotions, as well as one of the show’s narrators.
Telling the story of Joseph from The Book of Genesis, ‘Joseph and the Amazing Technicolour Dreamcoat’ follows Joseph, who is betrayed by his brothers and sold into slavery. Created by Andrew Lloyd-Webber and Tim Rice, this is a must-see rock opera.
Year 10 student Wiremu Tairaki reprises his position as a minor role with a big character, coming on stage as the Pharaoh. This is his second school-based production, having performed on the school theatre stage initially with 2023’s production ‘Sweet Charity’.
“Theatre is something I am passionate about,” he explained.
Year 11 student Arwen Edwards-Bland returns to the stage with multiple roles in this production, often with 30-second quick changes and enigmatic characters. However, her biggest passion is choreography, having choreographed three of the dances for ‘Joseph and the Amazing Technicolour Dreamcoat’, and teaching them to the cast.
In fact, Arwen’s future prospects involve moving into musical theatre, before opening her own dance studio and dance school.
“It’s always been a dream of mine,” Arwen explained. “Dancing is a passion of mine, and I really want to teach dance.”
With her natural talent for choreographing, Arwen is excited to take to the stage and showcase her skills to a packed audience.
Year 11 student Hayden Hudak comes on stage as Reuben, one of Joseph’s 11 brothers.
For Hayden, this production really excites him, as his passion aligns highly with the stage.
“I have been involved with Seagrass since its inception and have always been helping put together shows and helping at every single rehearsal,” he explained.
Hayden said he was looking to pursue theatre as a profession following secondary school, wishing to get onto Broadway.
Not surprisingly, Hayden’s childhood is closely tied with musical theatre, having been born in New York City, and spending time at the theatre with his parents. Hayden is well known amongst the cast and crew for his tips and tricks for the stage, and for always being a helping hand.
“We wish to thank Mr McDermid, Mrs Napier and all the teachers and staff who have assisted and mentored our students withing Seagrass,” Allegra explained.
Allowing equal opportunity for all students with varying interests, the Seagrass rehearses and performs from the purpose-built Performing Arts Centre at Proserpine State High School.
“It’s amazing how everyone gets behind us and supports us.”
‘Joseph and the Amazing Technicolour Dreamcoat’ performances will be April 18 to 20, with three evening shows and one matinee on Saturday.
Tickets are going on sale in the upcoming fortnight. Keep updated via the Proserpine State High School Facebook page and website for more information.
Some of the Seagrass Theatre cast, ready for the ‘Joseph and the Amazing Technicolour Dreamcoat’. Photo credit: Bronte Hodge
