From mastering quick character changes to embodying over-the-top comedy, the AIM Melbourne Music Theatre students took on The Mystery of Edwin Drood with the kind of dedication and professionalism you’d expect from a Broadway stage. Their reflections reveal just how much the course prepares students for the realities of the industry, and how much they grow from each production.
Learning to Think Like a Professional Performer
For many in the cast, Drood was as much a lesson in discipline as it was in performance.
“The rehearsal process was stressful but very rewarding and inspiring. Derek, Kassie and Stephen made every rehearsal easy and fun. I knew what was expected of me every week, and it helped me work on a new goal each week and strive for better every time I was up on the deck.” – Jorja Elliot (Miss Sarah Cook)
This structured yet supportive environment was echoed by second-year student Willis Pearce (Mr Nick Cricker/Durdles):
“The rehearsal process was a creative and hardworking time where it was all hands-on deck to bring your A game and bring performance level energy and showmanship without it being the show. Both Derek [Taylor] and Stephen [Gray] treated us as professionals and guided us each step of the way to the performances.”
Adapting to Any Challenge
Not every show comes with a straightforward ending, Drood‘’s “choose your own adventure” style meant the performers had to be ready for anything.
“The nature of the ‘choose your own adventure’ style of the musical encouraged me to be prepared for anything even if that particular ending wasn’t chosen by the audience.” – Akanksha Taori (Miss Janet Conover/Helena Landless)
For some, the challenge was even greater. Third-year student Josephine Su (Miss Florence Gill/Beatrice) juggled two tracks in the production, something she sees as a major career skill, “My biggest takeaway would be proving to myself that I can learn two tracks at the same time. It’s a valuable skill to have when going into the industry.”
Pushing Creative Boundaries
The production was also a masterclass in stretching creative and technical limits. “I learnt the importance of preparation before rehearsal as to not be caught out. I would be in early each morning with my scenes prepared for the day in order to be a more active member of rehearsal.” – Helen Lihoudis (Miss Wilhelemna Cartwright/Madam Chair/Mayor Sapsea)
Willis Pearce also discovered the craft behind playing a loose, comedic character without letting it compromise technique,“This show was all learning and understanding that even though you’re not the stiff, strict character you have to still use that mindset when the comedic drunk.”
Teamwork Above All
Even for those with leading roles, Drood reinforced the idea that great theatre is built on collaboration.
“I learnt about the importance of working as a team. Whilst I may have had the line share, the show was never really about me rather about the importance of each cast member excelling in their part to create the larger picture.” – Helen Lihoudis
Josephine Su found creative ways to make her ensemble role feel just as vital, “I loved the challenge of making the most out of the smaller role I was given and being able to give the character an authentic personality.”
Thinking about a career in music theatre?
The Drood crew sum it up best: AIM Music Theatre = serious training, professional vibes, and the perfect place to let your artistic freak flag fly!
