Class Clowns

On Thursday 18th March, three of Ballarat High School's year 9 students: Naomi Ross, Noah Lia and Jericho Johnson-Shortis did the school proud at 'Class Clowns'. 

Class Clowns is the Melbourne International Comedy Festival’s national development program for teens. A competition, workshop and mentoring program, Class Clowns plays a valuable role in supporting the confidence and creativity of young Australians. It is a channel for self-expression, a platform for amplifying the voices and perspectives of young people, and a pathway for developing emerging Australian talent.

In the weeks leading up to the event, our three talented students prepared some material, some even going so far as to practice with an audience during recess and lunchtimes. 

They then attended a workshop with Comedian Michelle Brasier (A recent addition to the cast of Shaun Micallef's Mad As Hell, Michelle is a Melbourne based singer, writer, actor, radio presenter and comedian). During the workshop the students had a chance to present a draft of their material for feedback, before breaking for pizza to keep their nerves at bay. 

At 7pm the doors opened to the public and the students found themselves on the set of a real-life comedy gig! Each of them bravely took to the stage with their own original stand-up material. 

Their work was razor sharp, demonstrating intelligence and sophistication, as well as a clear talent for ruling the stage. It is no easy feat getting up in front of a crowd and doing stand-up. These three were absolute naturals who made it difficult for the judges. 

Students from Ararat and Loreto also competed but it was our very own Jericho Johnson-Shortis who was crowned winner of the Ballarat heat. This saw Jericho being invited to take part in the State Final in Melbourne.

To be continued ……………………

Jessica Quick

Drama / Theatre Studies