Kids take to the stage

KIDS are running the show at the On the Hill Theatre Company.

Based out of the Old Church on the Hill, managing director Emily Calder said the company provides kids from four to 17 years old with the opportunity to hit the stage and immerse themselves in the world of theatre.

“They are fully staged productions with lights and sound and all the works, costumes,” she said. “Kids love it.”

“If you want to inspire the next generation to enjoy the arts and to participate in the arts and build the confidence that comes with acting and performance, then starting young is good.

“It has to do with confidence building, the ability to strive, to set goals and to achieve, being able to get up in front of a group of people and perform confidently. It’s a life asset.

“And of course, it gives them a taste if they wish to go further with it later in life into a career.”

The company of around 70 children put on two to three productions a year, and kids can be found both on the stage and off.

“There are some students who prefer to have a backstage role and there is a place in theatre for everybody,” Calder said.

“I do have a couple who are training up to be stage managers and props masters.”

Calder said the company also works with adults, and they recently received a VicArts grant to present a piece of multicultural theatre next year.

For more information or to get involved visit onthehilltheatre.org.au.