It’s hard to write a review about a show performed, and in some moments, directed by school students. But that’s what we’ve asked Newcastle Live’s Dan Beazley to do. Here’s what he had to say about Star Struck 2016.
It’s the first Star Struck production I’ve seen since I performed in one over 20 years ago (John Deacon represent). And while the formula hasn’t changed, neither has the show’s ability to delight its audience and provide an amazing opportunity for public school students to showcase their talents.
The scale of the production is an incredible undertaking alone. It’s over 3,500 kids! I have trouble getting 4 adults to a band practice. What has the potential to be a chaotic mess, is managed professionally and with precision. Well, that’s what it looks like from out the front anyway.
After taking in the matinee performance yesterday, here’s 5 things I know for sure about Star Struck 2016
Tyler Chapman is ready
Someone get this guy in a band, to a label audition, or give him the keys to a van so he can start touring. Tyler Chapman is ready!
You can tell when someone’s got ‘it’, and he’s got it. Great vocal, and stage presence for days. If you’ve not heard of him, I predict you will.
Connor Wink’s voice is evolving
Connor Wink will be no stranger to those who follow Newcastle Live. But I’ve never heard him sound better than he did yesterday. The song choice was perfect for him, and the little trills he added to the end of a few phrases really showed an evolution.
Dan Wilson is da man
Dan Wilson won a CONDA (City of Newcastle Drama Award) for Excellence by a Musical Director for his work on Starstruck 2015, and he should get one for 2016 too! The band sound GREAT. And you’ve got to remember that most of them are students. The fact they sound so great is not only a credit to the students and their tuition, but also to Dan Wilson.
It was great to see one of our favoruite local musos, Jason Bone in a mentoring musicians role within the band too.
I Will Wait
A show stopping moment for me. Vocalist Bree Young owned the Peter McVie arrangement of the Mumford and Sons’ hit, I will Wait. With some visually spectacular choreography from Jo Thorn performed by students Rebekah Abel & Seth Ward, it was truly a highlight.
I’ll be bringing a cushion next year
This isn’t a criticism of the production, ok it’s a little long, but if you’re sitting on the seats of the Newcastle Entertainment Centre for almost 3 hours, you’re bum’s going to be a bit numb at the end.
You can check out a gallery of photos from Star Struck 2016, here – Congrats to all involved.
