Singers vie for spot in state's biggest variety show
By Avril Harris
APRIL 2009
Wall-to-wall talent... Chrislyn Hamilton with Ingham State High School students Elisa Raiteri and Shiloh Day.
Eighty-five singers from 35 state schools across Queensland descended on the Old Museum in Brisbane early last month to secure their place in Creative Generation - State Schools Onstage 2009.
Students travelled from as far north as Cairns to try out for the state's biggest variety show and perform in front of about 10,000 people on June 6 at the Brisbane Entertainment Centre.
Last year's Creative Generation star performer and TV's Australian Idol top-fivecontestant Chrislyn Hamilton joined the judging panel at the auditions for featured and backing vocalists.
Chrislyn gave students first-hand advice on combating nerves and performing in front of judges.
Martha Dickman, from Tully State High School, who sang Alicia Keys' hit song If I 'Aint Got You, received the shock of her life when Chrislyn joined her on stage for an impromptu encore.
Martha and 34 other students have progressed to the next stage of the event, a three-day workshop to be held at the Old Museum in Brisbane this month.
The workshop gives students a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to work with some of Queensland's finest choreographers, musicians and singers.
Students receive expert coaching covering all aspects of a performing arts career, from vocal technique to styling and make-up.
Creative Generation participants will perform alongside some of Queensland's most successful entertainers, including Australian country music legend Lee Kernaghan, Queensland pop sensation Ricki-Lee, Aria award winning band Operator Please, So You Think You Can Dance 2008 winner Jack Chambers and Chrislyn.
Celebrating the state's 150th birthday this year, Creative Generation - State Schools Onstage has the theme Our people, our places, our stories and headlines Queensland Day celebrations on June 6.
The show will feature more than 2500 students, including a massed choir, symphony orchestra, stage band and more than 1000 dancers.
. Tickets are available at Ticketek outlets, by phoning 132 849 or by visiting the Ticketek website 
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