Surf legend comes to life in Brunswick school musical

From catching waves to treading the boards, these talented students have brought their coastal community to life. Alyssa Terese reports.

A group of young boys and girls dressed in Hawaiian shirts and short on a stage one boy on a surfboard at the front A group of young boys and girls dressed in Hawaiian shirts and short on a stage one boy on a surfboard at the front
Image: Brunswick Heads Public School students ride a wave of local pride during their original musical, Beachside Boogie

A local surfing legend, kayaking, fishing, and even a trip to the gelato shop, featured in an original musical celebrating the coastal community of 225 Brunswick Heads Public School students.

The iconic Brunswick Picture House played host to the school’s original musical, Beachside Boogie, which followed a group of students choosing their sports for Term 4 and exploring some of the opportunities available in their coastal community.

The story was narrated by Year 6 student Otto, who played the school’s general assistant and much-loved Brunswick Heads identity, Steve Foreman.

As well as caring for the school, Mr Foreman is a respected former surf coach who has worked with some of Australia’s finest surfers, including seven-time world champion Layne Beachley and 1993 world champion Pauline Menczer.

Known at the school for his storytelling, Mr Foreman inspired a production that took audiences on a journey through Brunswick Heads, and the activities students can enjoy in the natural environment surrounding their school.

Another character, Paulette, was inspired by Ms Menczer and encouraged students to care for local beaches and look after their community, with Mr Foreman and Ms Menczer attending the production as special guests, watching students bring characters inspired by them to life.

Students also helped develop the story with teachers Nicole Oxley, who produced the musical, and Abelia Hissink, who directed the main cast.

Four pictures of school students on stage performing in a surf themed musical Four pictures of school students on stage performing in a surf themed musical
Image: Students brought local legends and coastal life to the stage over four performances

Principal Jodi Ridgway said the musical captured the close connection between the school and its community.

“It’s a story that captures what makes Brunswick Heads Public School and our community so special, giving Bruns kids the opportunity to learn, explore and grow in the incredible natural environment right on their doorstep,” Ms Ridgway said.

“Every class contributed an item to the musical, while students also auditioned for roles in the main cast, choir and dance troupe.

‘The production featured plenty of recognisable Brunswick Heads touches, alongside songs including Surfin’ Safari, Rock Lobster and Walking on Sunshine.”

Four performances were held across two days, with both evening shows selling out and the daytime performances reaching 80 per cent capacity.

Ms Ridgway said performing at Brunswick Picture House gave every student the opportunity to experience a professional stage, complete with theatrical lighting and sound.

“The production was the third school musical staged at the venue through the school’s strong connection with the local arts organisation,” she said.

Brunswick Heads Public School produces a musical every second year, alternating with a school art show.

A group of school students surround a middle aged woman on a stage A group of school students surround a middle aged woman on a stage
Image: Every class contributed an item to the musical, while students also auditioned for roles in the main cast, choir and dance troupe
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