Banksia MusicalsThis is how the College Principal described it.
Since the day I first saw OLIVER it has been one of my favourite musicals of all times.
Over the years I have sung the songs, and directed sequences in various school shows, but always longed for the opportunity to be part of a complete production. The moment I knew the College had secured the rights from America I became excited. But even in the midst of the excitement I never envisaged a production so stunning as that staged by us this year.
Throughout Term 1, students attended Thursday afternoons and most Saturdays for rehearsals. The Art Department came up with a wonderful concept whereby London of the 1850s could be reproduced around the walls of the stage. A staircase and bridge gave ideal locations for the various scenes. Excellent costumes and props were easily obtained and additional lighting enstalled.
The Young Australian Broadway Chorus had produced Oliver a number of times before, but the staircase and the inclusion of the accompanist dressed in an old world costume added a new dimension.
All this was eclipsed by the wonderful work of the students on stage. There were some old, experienced hands from whom much was expected, but there was a wealth of new talent that rose to heights that surprised us all.
The whole show was certainly the highlight of my 17 school productions and the memory will be treasured for the rest of my life.
Arthur Coates