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Talented local children shine in show

The Central App

Anna Robb

08 May 2023, 5:45 PM

Talented local children shine in showBack row: Mischa Tomlinson, Dayton Sutherland, Zoe Lietze, Frans Theewis (director), Lily Sinclair, Freddie Ryan, Alex Hart. Front row: Harlan Bickley, Mia Samuels, Faith Tiko and Liam Bickley. (Absent: Felix Hildyard and Jay-T McFadyen)

Twelve children impressed audiences as they performed in the ‘Stars in Their Eyes Junior’ talent show n Alexandra recently.


Tomorrow’s stars (all aged between seven and 14) were directed by Alexandra Musical Society’s (AMS) vice president Frans Theewis. 


Frans said there was a vast range of performances from songs by P!nk and Taylor Swift, and hits such as ‘Stand by me’, Pink Panther theme, and other musical numbers on saxophone, guitar and the piano.


“The kids did very well…they gained a whole lot of confidence by doing something new in front of a whole lot of people,” he said.



There were four “full house” shows held in the AMS rooms, with 50 people in the audience each time (April 27 -30).


Frans said some of the children were first timers on stage and they handled the pressure calmly.


“Nerves are allowed, even as an adult you are a bundle of nerves.”


Hannah, mum of musical boys (Liam, 11 and Harlan, 9) who were in the show said it was wonderful to see the variety in the performances and for her children to have fun and make new friends.


“[Taking part] inspired them, they want to become more professional… it was great to see them grow from the experience.”


Harlan Bickley


Frans has been on the Alexandra Musical Society committee for the past two years and has taken part in the adult version of the show since 2017. 


It’s the first time AMS has held a junior version of the show, following the success of the production a Christmas show is being planned.


AMS has been bringing shows to the local stage since 1957 and supports all aspects of the performing arts including musical theatre, soirees, drama productions.


The AMS annual general meeting is coming up on May 23 at 7pm in their rooms at 41 Enterprise St. 


Find out more about AMS here.