SHOWSTOPPER: Vocal powerhouse Laura Panarello (Carmen) hits the right note in the spectacular finale of Marian Catholic College’s Fame – The Musical, which played to packed houses last week.
MARIAN Catholic College has put a spectacular spin on iconic 80s TV series Fame, delivering a high-octane extravaganza last week that damn-near blew the roof off the regional theatre.
Fame – The Musical, a celebration of precociousness and ambition, played to packed houses over three nights in a stunning showcase of the school’s talent.
More than 80 cast and crew – one in six members of the student body – were part of the musical production.
Behind the garish leg-warmers and bad hair, Fame delivered a subtle message to the audience – artistic talent is like lightning, striking blind to class, colour or creed.
That theme of opportunity was one of the key reasons the school invested so heavily in the production, according to assistant principal Frances Robertson.
“It was a hugely expensive operation but it was worth it; this was about building the community in the school,” Ms Robertson said.
“It shows the students about how limitless possibility is.
“We don’t know where this will take some of the kids – some of them were singing or dancing on stage for the first time – but this has certainly taught them things that go beyond the classroom. Lessons like diligence, hard work and co-operation.
“We’re hoping this sort of production can become a feature of our school.”
The highlight of the musical was the finale, where the 60-strong cast came together for a showstopping performance of the signature tune, Fame – I’m Gonna Live Forever.
“It just lifted everyone in the audience; there was cheering, clapping and feet stomping,” Ms Robertson said.
“It was unbelievable to feel that energy.”
Director Don Hillam and musical director Matt Segrave, along with indefatigable producer Belinda Aventi and choreographer Sacha Norsworthy, combined to create one of the most professional and successful school performances seen in Griffith in recent years.
Among a stellar cast, vocal powerhouse Laura Panarello (Carmen) and street dance dynamo George Vito (Tyrone) led the way, ably supported by Sean Close (Joe), Zac Robertson (Nick), Amelia Kennedy (Serena), Georgia Gair (Mabel), Tom Shannon (Schlomo), Sean Beecher (Mr Steinkopf), Rhys Parson (Goody), Grace Ieracitano (Lambchops), Sarah Cavanagh (Iris), Emma Bordignon (Greta Bell), Talei Baquero (Miss Sherman) and Fonzie Gomez (Mr Myers).
Marian principal Alan Le Brocque thanked the school and the wider Griffith community for supporting the event.