Expanding her range

All the world's a stage for one Shawnigan student, as she broadens her repertoire beyond the school's gates.

 

Amelia M. takes the stage on Thursday night, as How to Succeed in Business Without Really Trying opens at the Cowichan Performing Arts Centre.

 

The famed musical, a satirical look at corporate life and office politics in the 1960s, tells the story of schemers and dreamers trying to climb the corporate ladder.  Amelia has a leading role – one requiring a high volume of dialogue as well as numerous solos.

 

A current Grade 12 student, Amelia has taken key roles in plays and musicals throughout her five years at Shawnigan.  On top of performing on stage in Duncan, Amelia is also preparing for her lead role in Shawnigan's upcoming musical, We Will Rock You, which runs April 4-7 at Victoria's McPherson Playhouse. 

 

"I thought it would be more complicated, but the Shawnigan team has been really supportive of me working with the Cowichan Musical Society, so I'm really lucky," Amelia says, also expressing her gratitude for her parents, whose support has included driving her to rehearsal, running lines, and helping her communicate with teachers. "I also really love to perform, so it doesn't feel like a chore!"

 

As an added twist, Amelia's role in How to Succeed in Business Without Really Trying comes 13 years after her brother Alexander performed in a Shawnigan production of the same show.

 

"I didn't know he'd been in the show until after I got the part, actually," she laughs. But, she's excited to share the experience with both of her brothers, who are in town to see the show and also to celebrate her 18th birthday, which happens to be on opening night.