The Arts Unit has embraced the adage, the show must go on, with performers already preparing for the 2021 Schools Spectacular.

The annual event – the biggest variety show in the world – was remixed last year as a broadcast only show as the COVID pandemic made its staging impossible.

Schools Spectacular Creative Director Sonja Sjolander said the decision to stage the Spectacular this year had been met with much excitement.

“People can’t wait to get back up on stage! There is such a buzz around the return of this iconic event,” Ms Sjolander said.

“For many it’s a life-changing experience and for staff and students it’s their chance to connect with so many peers, to dream again, to learn, to reignite the joy and to make new friends.”

Although Schools Spectacular was back, Ms Sjolander said it had evolved.

The 2021 Schools Spectacular will be a one-act extravaganza combining live and digital performances to be presented to an arena audience and displayed on the television broadcast.

“Cast and audience can expect the warm familiarity of many of the traditional elements of the show whilst being surprised by some new innovations that are being created,” she said.

“After 37 years, there is a lot of history embedded in the show but we remain future focused to continue the journey toward tomorrow.”

Ms Sjolander said although a theme was yet to be announced, planning was well under way.

“Now that applications are open there is this amazing energy and excitement within the team to bring the production to life,” she said.

“There is definitely a heightened sense of excitement, preparation and anticipation.”

“The show is always shaped around the talent and we can’t wait to see what talent steps into the spotlight for 2021.”

On top of normal event planning, Ms Sjolander said the team was also ensuring a COVID-safe environment was maintained.

“Additional measures have been put in place and ongoing revisions will ensure that safety standards are current and health and wellbeing remain the priority throughout the process,” she said.

The 2021 Schools Spectacular will be held on Friday 19 and Saturday 20 November 2021.