Nearly 700 students from 55 regional Victorian government schools are gearing up to take centre stage at one of Australia’s biggest theatrical productions.

Education Minister Bronwyn Pike visited Mt Clear College in Ballarat with Member for Ballarat East Geoff Howard MP today for a sneak preview of the regional dance rehearsal sessions for the 2008 Victorian State Schools Spectacular, which will feature the state’s finest student singers, dancers and musicians.
“Education remains the Brumby Government’s number one priority which is why we are investing in the best educational opportunities for young Victorians across a range of different subject areas in their schools,” Ms Pike said.
“We want to give every student every opportunity to succeed through a great education, and this is a very exciting opportunity for students of all ages and backgrounds to hone their creative skills and come together for an unforgettable show.
“The State Schools Spectacular gives regional schools a unique chance to showcase their artistic talent at a world-class venue.
“We are proud to offer our students the chance to work with a group of visionary industry professionals and gain quality performing arts experience on a huge scale.”
Ms Pike said with input from Australian Idol performance coach, John Rowe, this show is a golden opportunity for students to take their performance skills to the next level as they perform three dazzling shows at Melbourne’s Hisense Arena (formerly Vodafone) on September 6 and 7.
The rehearsals are well under way for opening night for the 100-piece orchestra, 960-voice choir, 1000 dancers, 30 vocalists and 40 specialty performers from 170 government schools across Victoria.
This year’s production, Made in Australia, is a celebration of all things Australian – the people, the land, and the spirit – as told through song and dance on a massive scale.
AC/DC’s A Long Way to the Top, John Farnham’s You’re the Voice, Silverchair’s Straight Lines, Peter Allen’s Tenterfield Saddler, Kylie’s I Should Be So Lucky, and the Rogue Traders’ Voodoo Child will be among the hits featured in the show.
Produced by the Department of Education and Early Childhood Development’s performing arts unit, JOINING the CHORUS, the State Schools Spectacular is open to all Victorian government schools and all students.
Tickets to the three shows, which include a Saturday matinee and evening performance and a Sunday matinee finale, are available through Ticketek by calling 132 849 or online at
www.ticketek.com.au.


For school contacts phone Jacque Scott at the Department of Education and Early Childhood Development on 9637 3861.