Victorian State Schools Spectacular explainer

Female narrator: Welcome to the Victorian State Schools Spectacular!

The Spectacular is an annual arena musical extravaganza, where students from right across Victoria’s government schools unite to create a breathtaking showcase of song, dance, circus and music.

Powerful pop anthems. Moving ballads. High-energy choreography. Awe-inspiring aerial and circus acts. All brought to life with stunning visuals, bold costumes and a student orchestra, performed for a live arena audience and a TV broadcast.

Shane Jacobson: The opportunity of a lifetime is here and now.

Female narrator: From being mentored by incredible industry professionals, to taking part in a full-scale arena production, to building self-confidence and forging friendships that last a lifetime.

The program provides endless invaluable opportunities for Victoria’s young talent.

Sounds pretty spectacular, right?

The program takes place every year, with rehearsals running during Terms 1 to 3.

Let us walk you through all the ways you can be involved.

Are you a singer? Well, there are so many ways to sing in our show.

The Principal Vocalists perform on stage, singing solo, in small groups and ensembles, with a repertoire that covers many genres – pop, jazz, rap, RnB, classical, musical theatre – you name it, they’ve sung it.

The Victorian State Schools Choir is a specialist ensemble of vocalists who sing as a group, with rehearsals focusing on developing vocal technique, music literacy and harmony singing. You don't need to read music, just have a well-tuned voice and a love of singing.

The Backing Vocalists form a small, tight-knit vocal ensemble that adds richness, depth and texture to the show's sound. Singing a large part of the show’s repertoire, the backing vocalists have incredible vocal stamina and strength.

Our vocalist cast groups are selected through a professional audition process. To audition, prepare 2 songs in different styles and sing them in person or submit a video audition.

Do you play an instrument? Then the Victorian State Schools Orchestra is for you. The orchestra performs a repertoire of genres, from pop to jazz to classical, live in the arena in front of thousands.

Orchestra students refine their technique in instrument sectionals, alongside industry professional tutors, and also learn what it’s like playing together in a full orchestra.

Students should be of AMEB level 5 or equivalent, but it’s OK to audition if you are just under this level. Auditions are submitted by video.

Love to dance? The Principal Dance cast brings dancers together from all over the state, choreographed and mentored by Australia’s leading dance professionals.

Principal Dancers perform on stage across a vibrant variety of dance styles, in ensembles, small groups and with opportunity to perform solo. The experience mirrors what it’s like performing in a professional production.

Audition in person, or submit a video if you can't make it.

The Specialty Acts bring a thrilling dimension to the show, and the most magical part. You can audition with any talent you're passionate about.

Past acts have included rock bands, roller skaters, circus performers, acrobats, actors and even a magician.

You can audition as an individual, or schools can nominate a specialty act; like a string quartet, jugglers, hip hop crew, cheerleaders, a signing choir.

Whatever your talent, we'd love to see you shine on our stage!

Prefer to work behind the scenes? Join the Backstage Crew. You’ll train alongside professional stage technicians, and get hands-on experience with professional equipment across audio, lighting, vision and stage management.

The First Nations Ensemble brings First Nations students together to perform on stage, guided by First Nations artists. There's no audition. Just register your interest.

And there's one more exciting way to be part of the show with your school! Our Mass Cast.

Our Mass Cast is made up of school groups from across Victoria. Your school group learns the show together, rehearses with other schools and performs together on the night. There are 2 groups your school can join.

In Mass Choir, your school group sings alongside the other Mass Choir schools from the arena stands – together as one big voice.

In Mass Dance, your school group learns choreography, then takes to the arena floor to dance as one mighty ensemble.

Your school registers to take part, and no previous experience is needed for either.

There are no fees to participate in the Spectacular program.

The Spectacular provides students with an unforgettable performing experience.

From making new friends and developing their skills, to growing in confidence and preparing for a career in the industry. Many of our alumni have gone on to build successful careers in the arts, events, education and more.

It's a chance to do what you love alongside students who are every bit as passionate as you are.

So whatever your talent, whatever your story, there's a place for you here.

Join us at the Victorian State Schools Spectacular.

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