A children’s choir with a difference in Sandgate

A children’s choir with a difference is starting in Sandgate. Unlike a traditional ‘stand and sing’ choir, the ‘theatre choir’ will involve children performing on stage; giving them the chance to develop music and theatre skills, as well as confidence, in an exciting environment.

The choir was created by two local theatre professionals; Shelli Hulcombe, an opera singer and Belynda Buck, a choreographer. Both have nationwide experience in the arts and entertainment industry and understand the type of skills young performers need to learn.

The choir is bolstered by the philosophy that theatre arts for young people should be taught in a fun, non-competitive environment, particularly because singing and dancing on stage can be confronting.

“Normally as a singer or dancer you have one lesson a week, and suddenly you’re on stage in a production having to sing, and move, and act at the same time”, said Ms Hulcombe.

Belynda, who trains children’s choruses for Opera Australia and runs the Sandgate Buzz Bump and Jump dance classes, says there is a demand for this kind of training. “Often, the kids will come from various school choirs, and whilst they sing beautifully, it takes a lot of effort to get them moving naturally on stage. The current climate in musicals and opera is that you not only have to sing well, but be able to act like a film star too. It’s a lot to expect, but children have such a natural ability that we really want to be able to build on this and develop music and drama skills that will carry them into later life.”

Above all, the choir aims to instill confidence and a love of the arts in children, whether they decide to continue a life in the performing arts later or not.

The choir is held on Monday afternoons at the Sandgate Town Hall and is offered to children aged 6-14. Contact Belynda on 0409 714 324 for more information.