STUDENT attitude towards performing arts has been “turned on its head” at Grant High School, with students taking charge of a wild night out.
More than 50 Year 9 to 12 students will hit the stage ready to “blow the roof off” Mount Gambier’s City Hall with the return of Wild Winter’s Night.
The production is the culmination of tech studies, art, music and hospitality students, working together to deliver a professional level event.
Music teacher Scott Maxwell said the night was all about “authentic learning” for students through “real-case scenarios.”
“Having real events drives their way of learning and gives them meaning and accountability,” he said.
“It also provides a great way for the community to connect with what the students are doing.
“Everything about the night has a modern twist and it has become an annual event which students strive and look forward to during the year.”
According to the 2018 ARIA music teacher of the year, more than a dozen bands have been honing their stagecraft, while more work has gone into creating a visual spectacular.
“We want the level of production at top level,” Mr Maxwell said.
“Go big or go home really, so we have lights, smoke machines, lasers and glow in the dark paint.
“It used to be hard to get students to perform on stage with anxiety and judgement, but now the kids cannot wait.”
Visual arts and hospitality teacher Pariya Ziakas said the event required significant preparation from students.
“This year we have food on offer which we have been trialing for about a month,” she said.
“The students have gone with an American 1950’s catering theme with homemade grilled cheese, hamburgers, hotdogs and nibbles available.
“This ties in well with the unique winter theme of the event.”
With Mr Maxwell playing his part in this year’s Stand Like Stone Foundation’s Swinging with the Stars event, the night has become his major collaborative fundraiser.
“We have had over 20 businesses generously donate goods for a silent auction which will occur through the night for the foundation,” he said.
“We are looking for people to not only enjoy the night but to support the Stand Like Stone foundation and the great things they do in the community.
“We are hoping the fundraising will attract a more diverse crowd so students can perform to a wider range of audience.”
The $5 entry price will include food and a ticket into the draw to win a custom-painted ukulele, hand crafted by students.
Doors open at 6pm tonight, with light entertainment until 6.30pm when the bands start.
Additional mocktails, milkshakes and drinks will be available to buy.
