Over the recent school holidays, Year 9 student Cooper Greenham-Peake had the unique opportunity to attend the Melbourne Theatre Company’s Young Artists Week, a selective program that invites only 20 students from across Victoria to immerse themselves in the world of theatre.
“I went down on Sunday, and we started on Monday and went right through to Friday,” Cooper said. “It was a lot of everything to do with theatre.”
Throughout the week, students worked closely with industry professionals, including a writer, a director, and a costume designer, exploring everything from script writing and creative development to costume sewing and performance creation. The program culminated in a group performance showcasing their work.
Despite feeling nervous at first, Cooper says the experience exceeded all expectations. “I didn’t really have many expectations going in, but it was definitely a lot more than I expected. It was such an amazing experience.”
Cooper has been involved in three productions during his time at Wodonga Middle Years, including Wodonga Senior Secondary College latest production, ‘Harry Potter & The Cursed Child’, and has a clear love for drama. “I’ve done the production for three years now, and I love being a part of it no matter what the role is. Even if I was tree number one, I’d be happy just being a part of it.” This year, that dedication paid off with Cooper landing a semi-major role of Amos Diggory in the aforementioned Harry Potter & The Cursed Child, an experience that’s only strengthened their enthusiasm for performing.
Reflecting on the Young Artists Week, Cooper offered some advice for other students who might get the chance to apply in the future. “Don’t be nervous. I spent the first two days just in the corner, all nervous, but everyone there was just like me, they all love performing arts. I got to the end of it and thought, that went so quick! I just wish I’d stepped out of my comfort zone sooner.”
With only 20 students selected from across Victoria, including Ava Beall from the Huon Campus and Demi O’Brien Harding from Wodonga Senior, this was a truly special opportunity and a testament to Cooper’s talent and commitment to the performing arts.