Performing Arts - Top of the State

At the end of 2021, Year 12 drama students performed a solo performance to a panel of VCAA assessors as part of their external exam. Drama student, Elliot Shute not only received an A+ for his performance but was one of only 30 out of 894 students State-wide to be selected to perform at the Melbourne Recital Centre at Top Class. 

This concert showcases high achieving Drama and Theatre solos from around Victoria and is an event open to the public held in March each year. Elliot’s chosen character, ‘The Concierge’ was created from a structure that required him to dramatize the following scenario. 

‘Due to a serious decline in tourism, a group of shonky developers suggest to the owners of London’s Savoy Hotel that the hotel should become a multi-level carpark. The quick-witted Concierge of the hotel, who has been in the job for many years, confronts the group of developers during their pitch and makes a passionate plea for not knocking down the iconic hotel.’

Elliot performed his solo to a full house at Top Class, evoking bursts of laughter with his natural flair for comedy and witty script-writing abilities. Elliot’s performance was of such a high standard that he was then selected as only one of 4 Drama students State-wide to perform at Top Acts, an event showcasing excellence in the areas of Dance, Theatre, Drama and Music studies. 

During his studies at Blackburn High School, Elliot showed an enthusiasm for Drama from early on and consistently exhibited a passion for performance, as well as respect for his peers and teachers. He was a frequent performer in the House Performing Arts Festival, playing a lead role in his final year. 

A massive Congratulations on your achievements Elliot!