Performers to roll with 80s show

AN adaptation of a cult classic musical comedy of the 1980s will go on show this weekend as part of a performing arts school’s first solo seniors display in four years.

Running throughout this weekend, more than 35 students from Curtain Call Performing Arts Studios will take the stage for two performances of Xanadu.

Teacher, Alex Crowe, said the show will capture the spirit of the decade for attendees.

“Xanadu is funny. It’s quirky. It’s typically 80s,” she said. “We’ve been working on it since this February and the students are so excited to put it on.

“The audience should most look forward to the humour. It’s that typical 80s humour where it doesn’t quite make sense but it’s still funny.”

Originally released as a film in 1980 starring Olivia Newton-John, the musical adaptation was written by Douglas Carter Beane, with music and lyrics written by John Farrar and Electric Light Orchestra’s Jeff Lynne.

Curtain Call Performing Arts Studios’ senior group is part of the school’s more-than-100 student performers.

This weekend’s show marks a return to the school’s pre-pandemic program, with a seniors performance in September followed by a juniors display in November.

Ms Crowe said she’s excited to see the seniors go solo again.

“Last year again because of COVID we had a joint production of Beauty and the Beast, so this year the seniors were really keen to have a show by themselves again,” she said.

“It’ll be a good mix of showing what the studio’s all about. We’re not about the perfect performer but the passionate one.

“Everyone will get their chance in the spotlight whether it’s singing, dancing, drama, or a combination of the three.”

Xanadu will be performed on Saturday at 7.30pm followed by a 2pm matinee on Sunday, at Mount Rowan Secondary College’s theatre.

Tickets are $30 for attendees 18 and under, and $35 general admission and can be booked at bit.ly/3P2C1yR.