The toe-tapping, swashbuckling Gilbert and Sullivan classic The Pirates of Penzance has sailed into Brisbane for a very limited season, featuring an array of home-grown talent from the Queensland Conservatorium Griffith University (the Con) and the Academy of Excellence in Musical Theatre (the Academy).
Presented by Prospero Arts at the Queensland Performing Arts Centre (QPAC), and directed by renowned opera director Stuart Maunder, the production features iconic numbers such as ‘I Am a Pirate King’, ‘Poor Wandering One’, and ‘I Am the Very Model of a Modern Major-General’.
Starring alumni Nina Korbe and Billy Bouchier, the cast has also been joined by a live 23-piece orchestra.
Among the cast is Sophie Moman, who has just this year completed her Bachelor of Musical Theatre.
In her first professional production outside of her studies, Ms Moman plays Edith, a role she was invited to audition for after being scouted at this year’s industry showcase in September.
As Edith, the eldest and bossiest of Major-General Stanley’s daughters, Ms Moman sings and dances with the ensemble and said there was something for everyone in the classic comedy-opera.
“This show is fun, silly, romantic, interesting and musically stunning,’ she said.
“It’s been incredible working with industry giants like Stuart Maunder and [musical director] Isaac Haywood and learning from stars including Nina Korbe and Billy Bourchier.”
The Bachelor of Musical Theatre course is the only program of its kind worldwide where students train within a major performing arts venue, so Ms Moman has been no stranger to the QPAC stage.
“It’s been a whirlwind, having just handed back my access pass for QPAC ahead of graduation, and to be back there and applying the skills I’ve learned so soon is really exciting.”
Associate Professor Margaret Schindler, an esteemed vocal coach at the Con, was thrilled to see her students excelling, and said their work ethic, enthusiasm and preparation give them an extra edge in the industry.
“Stuart Maunder texted me on the first day of rehearsals to say how proud I should be of our students,” Associate Professor Schindler said.
“We focus on building a solid foundation for our students—vocal technique, stagecraft, movement and musicality, and the practical experience they gain in high-calibre productions prepares them for professional life.
“Not only are our graduates highly skilled, but they also bring individuality and passion to their performances.
“Their love for everything they do, from their love of performance and the art form to their love of engaging with an audience all shines through.
“We’re super proud of them all and we’re really excited for them.”
