The 2024 Bachelor of Acting Showcase

Surely there were a few nerves before the inaugural third-year industry showcase from the QLD Conservatorium Bachelor of Acting students. The 2024 graduating class certainly didn't let any trepidation show on stage. The talented young cast treated us to a wide variety of short excerpts from classical and modern works out of Australia, the US, and Europe. Consisting of comedy, drama and songs, the extracts were cleverly stitched together to create one gratifying work that allowed the performers to show versatility in playing a variety of roles. When it comes to actors’ showcases, however, what matters most isn’t so much the text as the performers themselves.

Siena D’Arienzo brought a vulnerability to her performance that was both believable and engaging. Her stage presence felt natural and assured, drawing the audience into her characters’ emotional worlds. There is a particular quality to her performance that suggests she would excel in film or TV, where her ability to convey depth and subtlety would truly shine.

Harrison Everingham commanded the stage with a confident and focused energy. His rich vocal tones, assured aura and polished delivery made his work a pleasure to watch. One can imagine he would be particularly well-suited for romantic lead roles as he is the kind of fellow who has the looks to become a bit of a screen heartthrob.

Angus Freer’s thoughtful approach to his characterisation was enlivened by his entertaining and animated presence. There’s a playfulness in his performance style, and his ability to shift between light heartedness and intensity hints at an untapped potential for a villainous part. I’d love to see him take on a sinister role sometime.

Rebecca Harland’s vulnerability was a standout element of her performance. Her gentle, controlled energy gave her work an understated yet powerful presence, creating a captivating watch. Hartland certainly works well with modern scripts but is one of the strongest in the cast when it comes to classical works. She handled the accent work with ease and demonstrated excellent timing.

Dylan Hodge brought a stylish and original flair to his performance, coupled with strong comic timing. His quirky style was well complemented by his physicality, making his performance both engaging and fun to watch. There’s something distinctly unique about his presence that leaves a lasting impression. He uses stillness to great effect and can range from outrageous to subtle with ease.

Alexander James delivered a performance that felt refreshingly unpretentious and down-to-earth. His realistic and composed style, coupled with his subtle humour, made him an incredibly likeable and mellow presence on stage. His ability to remain grounded while still bringing warmth and nuance to his role was highly effective. James seems particularly well suited to contemporary work, and I imagine he would come across very well on screen.

Jade Jose’s timing was impeccable, and her lovely vocal tones gave her performance an additional layer of charm. Her stage presence was captivating, drawing the audience into her witty and intelligent portrayals. Jose is a real chameleon with the ability to play outside her age, gender, and status with believability. She has a natural charisma that is both delightful and engrossing.

Isabella Kirkwood delivered a striking performance, her mysterious yet animated nature making her stand out. She has a wonderfully expressive face and commanding stage presence. Kirkwood is a well-rounded and spirited performer, whose ability to engross the audience with her skilled and layered expressiveness makes her work memorable.

Sophia Marzano brought boundless energy to the stage, fully committed to every moment. She was a great team player but still had her own moments to shine. Marzano’s lovely singing voice and lively performances were a joy to experience, and her dedication to the roles was evident. Entertaining and full of life, she is a dynamic presence who would be well suited to musical theatre roles.

Charlotte Pitt’s exceptional versatility made her a charismatic standout. Whether it was her great stage presence or her skilled accent work, every aspect of her performance was polished and vibrant. She was a joy to watch, radiating confidence and poise throughout. Pitt is one of those performers who really could handle even the trickiest roles with panache.

Michael Proberts displayed an unwavering focus and commitment to his roles. His believable performances were enhanced by lovely vocal work, effective physicality, and impeccable comic timing. Proberts is one of those performers you can’t take your eyes off. There’s something prodigious about his stagecraft, as he consistently works with precision, charisma, and vitality.

Sebastien Skubala’s energetic and magnetic performance was packed with dynamic risk-taking. His willingness to push boundaries physically made his performance all the more captivating, and he maintained a lively presence that was always entertaining. He is a committed and charming performer who works very well with others. While he’d work well on screen, he’s a performer who is exemplary on stage as he is marvellously skilled at connecting with the audience.

Logan So was a charming and fearless performer, showcasing excellent comic timing alongside a controlled yet refreshing energy. His stage presence was magnetic, and there was a boldness to his performance that kept things engaging and fun. So was by no means superficial, however, and didn’t shy away from taking vulnerable risks emotionally throughout the show. His ability to draw you in to his characters’ emotional worlds was top notch.

Ethan Waera brought intense fervour and sincerity to his roles, delivering a heartfelt performance that felt genuine and passionate. Waera’s physically expressive, unaffected, committed style allowed his emotions to shine through, creating a deep and penetrating portrayal that was very effective. While he did well in the comedic moments, his depth of feeling and portrayal of tragedy was where he really shone the brightest.

Caitlin Weld delivered a charming, well-rounded performance that was both pleasant and enjoyable. More than just a pretty face, Weld’s bright, animated energy made her a delightful presence on stage, and she was consistently convincing in her roles, bringing an infectious enthusiasm to her performance. I can imagine her shining in musical theatre roles and parts that allow her to bring her spirited energy and strength to the forefront.

Having seen these performers present Molière’s Tartuffe in March of this year, it was a delight to witness their progression and development. Griffith University’s Queensland Conservatorium Bachelor of Acting course is creating some incredible future stars of stage and screen.

Kitty Goodall