Eight years and four school musical performances may be the difference between the youngest and oldest members of this year’s Canterbury College musical, but that isn’t getting in the way of preparation.
The Sound of Music will be performed at the college between May 18 and 20 as another celebration for the 30 year anniversary.
Within the musical, there is a principal cast of 24, who are aged between 9 and 17, and students are still being selected for the orchestra, the chorus, back of stage and front of house.
Youngest lead, year four student Morgan Watt will play Gretl – the youngest von Trapp daughter – in her first lead musical role.
Morgan said she was “super excited” to take to the stage.
“Mum said I was a good public speaker and I like to sing, so I think I’m ready,” she said.
Most experienced lead, year 12 student Kirra Lang, will take to the stage as Maria, in her fifth college musical.
She will be performing alongside fellow year 12 student Sean Fraser, who will play Captain von Trapp.
Kirra said although they had only been rehearsing for a little over a week, things were going well.
“It’s just such and honour to perform in the musical on the 30th anniversary of the school,” she said.
“This is just my dream role.”
Kirra said she saw so much of herself in Morgan and hoped to nurture her for a fabulous first musical performance.
Sean said being in year 12 added a special element to the performances.
“We’ve become considered leaders of the cast,” he said.
“Without realising it, we’ve found they are all looking up to us.”
The pair agreed having young cast members allowed a family to form, both on and off stage.
Director Matthew Kopelke said the musical always brought the Canterbury College community together.
“The cast are a close knit group and it is really important for them to be inclusive,” he said.
“These students are so talented and so capable.
“It is a particularly important role for our year 12s, with this being their last chance to be in a show.
“This is an opportunity to get out in the school environment and a really great start to their future careers.”
Mr Kopelke said there was so much commitment to the musical, that four months would be enough time to bring it all together.
“We are through the first ten pages so far,” he said.
“These students give two to three hours, twice a week, for the musical and it is such a big commitment from their families.”
The Sound of Music will be performed at Canterbury College in May.