From Broadway to the University of Adelaide

Image: April Beak, who will be playing Elle Woods in Elder Conservatorium's Legally Bonde.

2022 has been a triumph for Elder Conservatorium Music Theatre with highlights including audience ovations for the Australian Premiere of the new Joey Contreras musical In Pieces, and training from an acclaimed Broadway star.

Held at the iconic Adelaide Festival Centre, In Pieces reflects on the romantic journeys of a group of individuals, as they look back on the chosen paths and partners along the way. 

These pieces come together to create a universal remembrance of what it’s like to be young and learning in love. Three sold out performances and standing ovations bore testament to the graduating class’ soaring voices, commanding stage presence, and the emotional depth of their interpretation. 

Head of Elder Conservatorium Music Theatre, George Torbay, is hard at work with students rehearsing for Les Misérables. George has a knack for drawing out the potential in his talented students, describing this next production for lucky audiences: 

“You are in for a treat. This is a vocal showcase of truly exquisite voices and an ensemble sound that is stunning – coupled with the largest orchestra we have had for an ECMT production - it’s going to be huge!”

Beyond Les Misérables, students are looking forward to masterclasses from artist in residence Nikki Snelson. An acclaimed Broadway star and original cast member, Nikki will direct and choreograph upcoming performances of Legally Blonde from 29 September to 2 October. 

Nikki Snelson has a distinguished history as a director, choreographer and actress working on Broadway and beyond. Nikki created the role of Brooke Windham in the original Broadway and MTV cast of Legally Blonde.

On the small screen, she was seen on Desperate Housewives and All My Children. Nikki plays Janelle Kincaid in the upcoming series Ms Guidance

Nikki is also the CEO of Musical Theatre Mayhem, a triple threat workshop series featuring major Broadway stars. 

Students are invited to join a vibrant community of like-minded innovative and driven performers where they can combine their passion for dance, drama and voice to become a flexible and professional performer. 

The prestigious Elder Conservatorium of Music has a reputation for innovation and excellence that is backed by its long history as the oldest tertiary music school in Australia. 

Applications for the Bachelor of Music Theatre at the Elder Conservatorium of Music are now open. Apply through SATAC at satac.edu.auand register online for an audition at able.adelaide.edu.au/music/study/auditions

Audition Rounds for 2023

Adelaide: Fri 30 September

Adelaide: Sat 1 October

Sydney: Sat 8 October

Perth: Sat 15 October

Melbourne: Sat 22 October

Brisbane: Sat 29 October

Learn more: adelaide.edu.au/degree-finder/bmuth_bmusthtre.html