Tullawong’s cast of 2023 making history

Tullawong State High School is staging its first musical in more than 20 years.

Director Natasha King says the cast and crew have ramped up rehearsals for Grease!, with students even giving up time during the holidays to make sure the production hits the right note.

“It’s been incredible, with the kids working out what being involved in a musical entails,” Natasha says.

“The kids we have are incredibly talented.”

She says she and Head of Department of the Arts Zoe Wells have pushed the students out of their comfort zones and they have readily risen to the challenge.

“We’ve had some who can sing and dance, some who can dance and act or act and sing and they’ve become triple threats who can sing, dance and act – it’s really good to see them push.”

Learning new skills

Zoe says taking part in the musical has also helped build the performers’ confidence.

“That’s the number one thing – our team is incredibly highly skilled individually in the performing arts,” she says.

“Knowing that we believe in the kids and pushing them to believe in themselves.

“It’s also building bridges between each subject area.

“We’ve had very strong programs within each arts area, but not strong collaborative projects.”

Natasha says students in the tech crew are learning industry standard skills, while the live band will lend authenticity to the production.

Book now

With Grease’s emphasis on teenage relationships and identity, Zoe says the musical resonates with young people and older audiences alike.

“The version we’re doing is more PG than the movie – it’s designed for a modern audience.”

Tullawong State High School’s production of Grease! is on July 20, 21 and at 7pm, with a 2pm matinee on July 22.

Tickets are $25 for adults and $20 concession/children.

To book, click here.