Hitting the stage

Catholic Regional College Caroline Springs's musical Annie was a success. (Supplied)

Tara Murray

Hours of practicing in lockdown and in person paid off for Catholic Regional College Caroline Springs students.

Students hit the stage recently in the college musical Annie, which had been rescheduled four times across two years due to the pandemic.

Teacher and musical director Katie Franzone said the school was the first in metro Melbourne to perform to a live audience since lockdown ended.

The students performed the musical four times across the space of a week.

“I could not be prouder of the students, staff and leadership team who enabled this to happen,” she said.

“As well as the cast we had over 20 students help with hair, make-up, backstage and front of house.

“This really was a collegial event that the students will never forget.”

Ms Franzone said it was a massive effort from the cast who remained committed and engaged for the whole year despite the circumstances of the pandemic.

Teacher and ensemble director Dr Chris McGillen said it had been a privilege to work with this amazing group of performers.

“They have shown incredible resilience in the face of so many challenges in getting this show to the stage. I have witnessed them working with great dedication, whether they had a named role or were part of the ensemble.”

The school will announce next year’s musical later this year.