Preview of Middle School Production – Fame Jr

Girton Grammar’s Middle School students are gearing up to stage their take on a pop-culture sensation when they perform Fame Jr next week. 

Over four nights from 11 to 14 September, a large cast of 60 students in Years 7 to 9 will transform Girton Grammar School’s Black Box Theatre into a New York City performing arts high school in the 1980s.

Based on the hit movie and TV show but with fresh new characters, Fame Jr follows a group of students as they progress through four years of high school, juggling their aspirations for stardom with academics and the general struggles of being a teenager. 

Production director and drama teacher Ms Joanne Christie says Fame Jr brings to light the characters’ journeys of self-discovery as they pursue their dreams of fame.   

“Actors need to learn about themselves. Dancers and musicians must excel in styles they don’t like. And it all comes together for a spectacular final Senior Year performance, where they reflect on their growth,” Ms Christie says.

Apart from the intriguing story, the audience can expect to be thoroughly entertained by the acting, singing and dancing of the talented cast. 

“The students have loved learning the choreography, and the ability to showcase these skills to the audience is a real driving factor for this highly energetic ensemble,” Ms Christie says.

“The main challenge for most of our cast is forgetting that they are performing themselves as they stop and watch others, captivated by their performances.”

As the 14th production she has directed for Girton Grammar School, Ms Christie admits that Fame Jr has a special connection for her.

“I was obsessed with the show growing up, and directing it has been like living my best life in the 80s all over again!”

“All of the cast are incredibly proud of the body of work they have developed, and it means everything for them to perform this for their families and the wider community.”

Fame Jr will run from 11–14 September at 7pm in the Girton Grammar School Black Box Theatre at 59 Wattle Street, Bendigo. Tickets are now available for purchase at trybooking.com.