Say Hei Hei to opening night

By Djembe Archibald

Aug 9, 2023

Familial love: Mollie Chambers as Moana and Teen Al Khazraji as Gramma Tala.

A 2016 animated film will be brought to life by the junior students of Goulburn Valley Grammar School.

Moana Jr will come to life this Thursday, Friday and Saturday night, with 50 students set to enter the spotlight.

The cast consists of Goulburn Valley Grammar School students from Years 5 to 8, with Mollie Chambers stepping into the role of Moana and Deen Al Khazraji taking on leading man Maui.

For three months, the students have been spilling into the school’s hall each week to hone their acting, singing and dancing skills in preparation for the big nights.

The hour-long show features iconic songs such as How Far I’ll Go, You’re Welcome and Shiny.

You're welcome: Deen Al Khazraji as Maui.

The show is directed by GVGS vocal teacher Helen Janke, choreographed by GVGS alumnus Nicola Bolton and stage managed by GVGS vocal teacher Amanda Harry.

“The production is a great family night out, and the cast is so excited to show the audience the show,” Mrs Janke said.

“The students have worked so hard for months.

“The standout of the show is the language. The students have practised pronunciation and meanings of Pacific languages such as Samoan, Tokelauan and Tuvaluan for the beautiful songs in this production.”