Theatre Studies Excursion
On Wednesday 20 August, our Year 11 and 12 VCE Theatre Studies students had the exciting opportunity to attend Melbourne Theatre Company's production of Kimberly Akimbo at the Melbourne Arts Centre.
The day began with a fascinating pre-show talk that offered insight into the creative process behind the production. Students learned about direction, design, and performance, with clear links to the VCE Theatre Studies curriculum. After enjoying lunch at Southbank, they returned to the theatre for the performance.
The production was a standout. With a clever and flexible set that shifted smoothly between scenes, it brought the story to life in a vivid and engaging way. A live orchestra added energy and emotion, with music that was both witty and powerful. The script balanced humour and heart, telling a moving story that resonated with the audience.
After the show, students took part in a Q&A session with members of the cast and crew. This gave them valuable insights into the realities of professional theatre and the collaborative effort behind a successful production.
The experience gave students a deeper understanding of performance and production elements and brought their classroom learning into a vibrant and professional context.
Below are some reflections from the students:
On the 20th of August, me and my fellow VCE theatre studies classmates were blessed with the opportunity of attending the musical play 'Kimberly Akimbo' at the Melbourne Arts Centre. From colourful retro skating rinks, to awkward family reunions, this musical was a vibrant show of funny jokes and unforgettable parts. All of this hides the inevitable turn and tragic reality of the main character, Kimberly Levaco's, rare genetic condition, where she ages 4 times faster than the average person. A play that certainly made many in the audience laugh and cry, Kimberly Akimbo is truly a once in a lifetime performance.
Beatrice Davo 12C
The Pre-show Talk for Kimberly Akimbo provided valuable insights into Theatre Studies, allowing us to engage more deeply with the various aspects of the musical. The production itself was both emotionally powerful and in-depth, successfully showing a blend of comedy and emotion. Despite moments of chaos, the show succeeded in the pacing, being engaging and allowing each performance to shine, including some great moments from Kimberly's and the cast. The musical Kimberly Akimbo follows a complex story and provides a thoughtful glimpse into their world, with unique aspects packed with emotion.
Alana Pham 11B
On the 20th of August my VCE Theatre Studies classmates and I went to the musical Kimberly Akimbo shown at the Playhouse. Kimberly Akimbo tells the story of Kimberly, a teenager with a rare genetic condition that causes her to age at an accelerated rate. Despite appearing much older than her peers, she faces the same challenges of growing up, family conflict, first love, and the search for identity. The performance was very reflective for me personally and was clearly intended to emotionally connect with both younger and older audiences. The theme of coming of age felt strongly directed at us as high school students, sending a bittersweet reminder to live life to the fullest. I became emotional seeing the older audience members too, as it made me empathise with the stage of life they are currently in. This left me in tears and reminded me to live in the moment. The humour and warmth of the show also reflects on family relationships, regrets, and the choices people make across a lifetime. All these themes resonate deeply with those who have already experienced those stages of life, as well as with young people beginning to navigate them. I'm glad to have had the opportunity to watch such a beautiful show with a message that moved me on a personal level.
Rowena Duane, 12A
Kelsey Holden
Performing Arts Leader