Teacher to shine spotlight on performers with new arts challenge

Published 2:00pm 15 July 2022

A passionate performing arts teacher who loves to help kids shine on the stage is preparing to launch a new arts challenge which will kick off next year.

Melissa Mataic from Red Music and Dance at Rothwell is the creator of the Moreton Bay Performing Arts Challenge, which will see young people come together for a gala evening of musical theatre, singing, dancing and more.

“What I really want to do is celebrate the kids across the whole of Moreton Bay and give them a platform and an opportunity to shine in front of their peers and their families in a really supportive and nurturing environment,” Melissa said.

“I feel there needs to be something that ties all our theatre groups, schools, studios, musical theatre groups, drama clubs and dancers and bring them all together for a festival-style celebration.

“There can sometimes be that us versus them mentality when it comes to schools and competitions, but I want to eradicate that idea and bring everyone together by running this challenge for the kids to enjoy, and then at the end have a gorgeous gala event to celebrate their achievements.

“It doesn’t matter if you live in Redcliffe or Caboolture, everyone from Moreton Bay is invited to take part.

“I want all the kids to walk off that stage and say “wow, that was fun”.”

Melissa, who has been teaching for 23 years, including 16 years on the Peninsula, has dreamt of creating this challenge for more than two decades.

Melissa said not only will the challenge give kids more confidence and self-esteem, but also the opportunity to further their skills and future pathways.

She is hoping to hold the challenge in July 2023.

How you can help

Melissa (pictured above) is now seeking expressions of interest from other performing art studios, groups and local businesses who would like to jump on board to help get the challenge off the ground.

She hopes to connect with others in the community to offer scholarships and prizes on the night of the gala for the region’s best performers.

“We know a lot of kids have got so much talent but don’t necessarily have all the extra vehicles to help support their growth, whether that be private lessons, photography, headshots to give to agents, equipment and gear, or even building a website to launch themselves and their music online,” she said.

“That is why I am hoping to partner with other Moreton Bay businesses to offer prizes and scholarships. I specifically want it to be Moreton Bay businesses, so it stays local.

“If you’re a music shop or a someone that sells dancing accessories, I would love to hear from you so we can team up to offer prizes for the kids.

“I also know we have got performing art schools that offer certificates and additional education that we can get the kids involved in - perhaps it’s a part scholarship or even just the opportunity to join in on one of their workshops. It’s all additional value above what they would normally do in their learning environment.

“It’s about all of us working together to give these kids the best start and opportunities we can.”