FAME Jr Lights Up Victor Harbor Town Hall
By Julian Schubert | Marketing & Communications Manager
For the past two nights, the Victor Harbor Town Hall has been alive with music, colour, and the unmistakable energy of young performers chasing their dreams. Encounter Lutheran College’s production of FAME Jr brought audiences to their feet, celebrating a story of talent, ambition, and the hard work it takes to make those dreams a reality.
Set in New York City’s High School for the Performing Arts, FAME Jr follows a group of students from their first day to graduation, sharing their highs and lows, personal challenges, and the friendships and camaraderie forged through the performing arts. Across powerful songs, fast-paced choreography, and moments of laughter and tenderness, the audience was invited into the world of driven young dancers, actors, and musicians determined to make their mark.
With a cast of 40 students from Years 7 to 12, backed by a dedicated team of staff and volunteers, this production has been in rehearsal since March. Director Elizabeth Bentley summed up the heart of the show perfectly:
“Ultimately, this show is about a group of young and talented students who have found a home in the Arts at Encounter. Above all, I want to thank our student cast and crew – you are why we do this!”
Assistant Director Tim Wormald added:
“Fame Jr is about the value of hard work, following your passions, and staying true to yourself. Our cast and crew are exceptional – they’ve poured their hearts into this.”
The students themselves shared how much the experience meant to them:
- “The arts push you out of your comfort zone in a place where you feel safe.” – Cadence Tuesley (Year 10)
- “Performing arts brings us together and helps us build skills we’ll use for life.” – Jasmine Hutchinson (Year 9)
- “Performing boosts confidence and creativity – it’s such a fun way to express yourself.” – Gwen Roberts (Year 7)
- “It’s not just about the performance, it’s about the teamwork backstage too.” – Amelie Humphris (Year 9)
- “The big group numbers are such a buzz – especially the closing song!” – Hayley Clapp (Year 10)
Behind the curtain, countless hours went into bringing FAME Jr to life. The production team of Ally Miller, Katie Marshall, Tim Wormald, Ali Dunbar, and Kym Koop, along with many staff, parents, and volunteers, gave their time and talents to create a memorable and meaningful experience for both the cast and the community.
As the final chords of “I’m gonna live forever” rang out on the last night, the Town Hall erupted in loud cheers and applause — a fitting celebration of youth, creativity, and the power of the performing arts.
Encounter Lutheran College acknowledges the Ramindjeri people of the Ngarrindjeri Country as the Traditional Custodians of the land on which we live, work and learn. We pay our respects to Elders past, present and emerging.
Contact Encounter Lutheran College