AMPD Holiday Program April 2026
"AMP'D was fantastic, it showed me that I can do things that I never thought I could do, and has got me so confident for my future in acting and singing". Charley
During the Easter school holidays, we were
privileged to collaborate with Left of Centre to deliver an exciting holiday program for local teens.
The program was designed for young people with a passion for music, acting and performing, providing them with the opportunity to develop their skills while learning from experienced industry professionals. Throughout the week, students participated in a range of workshops, gaining valuable insights and hands-on experience in the performing arts.
Lyndall Grant from Stage Combat & Action, a fight director, movement director, actor and motion capture specialist, led an energetic stage combat workshop. Students were thrilled to learn the fundamentals of safely choreographing fight scenes and had the chance to put their new skills into practice.
Wangaratta locals Colette Quin and Shane Douthie worked with the acting students on improvisation and performance techniques. Through a series of engaging exercises, students stepped outside their comfort zones, built confidence and explored the spontaneity of improv. Both Colette and Shane bring many years of experience across theatre and screen.
Antonia Maher worked with the band members on stagecraft, audience engagement and performance skills. Having performed since the age of eight, Antonia brings a lifelong passion for live performance, and students always enjoy learning from her dynamic and encouraging approach.
Ali Comensoli worked with both the vocalists and accompanists, sharing her extensive experience as a respected local performer. Students, particularly the pianists, valued the opportunity to develop their accompaniment skills under the guidance of a seasoned professional.
Julie Nolan led choreography sessions as students prepared for their final showcase. Passionate about empowering young people through the arts, Julie helped students build confidence, strengthen communication and develop teamwork. She had the AMPD cohort up and dancing in a brilliantly choreographed performance of Skid Row from Little Shop of Horrors.
Ben Thomas presented a workshop titled Getting Your Band Started, working closely with the band students. A well-known local performer, Ben has been performing and coordinating bands throughout North East Victoria for more than a decade, offering practical advice on rehearsing, performing and working together as a band.
Students interested in music also had the opportunity to visit Underdog Guitars, where owner Toby Hyland showcased a range of instruments and equipment, explaining how different gear works and answering students' questions.
The program concluded with a vibrant Cabaret Showcase at The Vine, where students performed for family and friends in front of a packed audience. The showcase featured singing, dancing, monologues and live band performances, giving every participant the opportunity to celebrate what they had learned throughout the week.
The holiday program was a wonderful success, made possible through the collaboration between SGMA, Left of Centre and an outstanding team of professional artists. It provided an unforgettable experience for everyone involved, and we look forward to seeing what the program can offer in 2027.
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