Dillmac Entertainment held its Performing Arts Live show on Thursday, November 16.
The 60 or so performing arts students from Kyabram, Echuca, Tongala, Shepparton, Merrigum, Rochester, Cobram and elsewhere in the region put on an amazing performance.
With 22 songs, including Ding Dong the Witch is Dead, Bring it On, Hard Knock Life and Sincerely Me, being performed back to back, it was a show not to be missed.
Dillmac is not short on numbers for shows, with over 400 students on its books.
Each year, it holds a relatively relaxed recital during each of the first three school terms, followed by a major showcase filled with costumes, lights and big sounds in the Kyabram P-12 College hall.
The showcase, however, is all about the drama, with no costumes, glam or glitter.
It’s just the students doing what they love and animating their performance with their voices and facial expressions.
Dillmac co-owner Liz Dillon was full of praise for everyone involved.
“Our tutors and students work all year for this experience,” she said.
“(They are) Led by Millie Dillon McKenzie, who is well supported weekly by her performing arts team — Sam Clydesdale, Rose Grills, Indi Gilmore, Harper Raverty, Emily Polidano and Issy Turnbull.
“Recently we have had Max Bruhn join our Ky team — and all (the) above mentioned are ongoing senior students of Dillmac or in a gap year with us.
“The team is topped off with the incredible musical talent of Chris McDonald.”
The students captivated the 200 attendees with their breathtaking performance.
Their passion is clear, with some already pursuing careers in musical theatre.
“Musical theatre is an area that many of our students move into full-time study with, recently having three students being accepted into Melbourne-based performing arts full-time courses with Patrick School of the Arts, and another ... (attending) the same institution’s secondary school,” Ms Dillon said.
“Singing and dance are required to make it in this industry, and having the plaza theatre stage to perform on is a bonus for our regional kids, who often miss out on these opportunities.”
Students had a blast performing some of their favourites for families and friends.
“The plaza theatre staff do an extraordinary job keeping the plaza theatre in top condition and allowing a fantastic experience for both students and audience members,” Ms Dillon said.