After a seven-year hiatus from major theatrical performances, Bairnsdale Secondary College is set to return to the spotlight this September with an ambitious, home-grown musical production titled Hall of Fame.
In a unique move, the musical has been entirely written and directed by two of the school’s own educators, teachers Simran Kaur and Shivani Mahendran.
The plot of Hall of Fame mirrors the very heart of the performing arts community.
The story centres on a school hall that has become too expensive to maintain.
Riddled with Occupational Health and Safety (OH&S) issues, the principal is left with no choice but to slate the building for demolition.
However, the teacher leading the school’s “Glee Club” refuses to let the creative sanctuary go without a fight.
Determined to raise the necessary funds and increase usage of the space, the teacher enlists the Glee Club members to help – all four of them.
The musical follows their journey as they attempt to rally the community and recruit enough members to save their stage.
The “art imitating life” theme has clearly resonated with the student body.
Despite the fictional Glee Club starting with just four members, the real-world production has seen a massive surge of interest.
More than 100 students from years seven through 12 have signed up, contributing their talents as cast members, musicians in the live band, and technical crew.
The production is also serving as a vital leadership platform for senior students.
The college’s Vocational Major (VM) team has integrated the performance into their community project, allowing senior students to take the lead in stage management and backstage operations.
Organisers say the students are “incredibly excited” to bring this original story to life after such a long absence of theatre at the school.
The production is open to the public, and the college is encouraging the wider community to head to Boucher Hall to support the students’ hard work.
Tickets are now live and can be purchased via the link on the Bairnsdale Secondary College Facebook page.
PERFORMANCE TIMES
Friday, September 11: 6.30pm–8pm
Saturday, September 12: 1.30pm–3.30pm (Matinee)
Saturday, September 12: 6.30pm–8pm
