Media releases

After adapting to the most innovative shift in performing arts training in decades, Federation University Australia’s performing arts students will showcase their talents during a series of performances in Ballarat this week.

The graduates of Federation’s new Bachelor of Performing Arts Degree have trained in acting, singing and dance through a mix of in-person and online classes and rehearsals as the global pandemic forced new ways of learning.

Joint Program Coordinator Anthony Crowley described the graduating cohort of 47 students as one of the most versatile groups of young artists the team have trained.

The group was divided into small skills classes of 12 to 15 students to ensure each received the specialised training they needed.

Through this week’s annual showcase, the students will demonstrate their full range of skills, with a diverse range of performances, including a monologue from English playwright Sarah Kane to a song from Hadestown, a version of the ancient Greek tragedy of Orpheus and Eurydice.

The series is directed by Melanie Beddie and Emma Clair Ford, with music direction by Daniel Tusjak.

The Showcase performances will be held on November 11, 12 and 13 at the Helen Macpherson Smith Theatre.

For details and tickets, visit federation.edu.au/arts-academy/whats-on/showcase

Quotes attributable to Federation University Arts Academy Music Theatre Program Leader Anthony Crowley

“The last two years have seen these students adapt to the most innovative shift in performing arts training in decades.”

“They have turned adversity to their advantage and are emerging as exciting, politically aware, socially engaged, brilliant young artists who are ready to reclaim the arts and start their career.”

Quotes attributable to student Aubrey Daley-Lynch

“I have learnt so much about myself, as both a performer and a person, and to be able to enter the professional industry in such a fun and innovative way such as this is so exciting.”

Quotes attributable to student Dan O’Halloran

“Showcase has been an inspiring time, being given the opportunity to work on the style that inspires me the most.”