REHEARSALS GO ON . . . VIRTUALLY
GEELONG arts groups are turning to virtual rehearsals as social distancing measures force them to cancel group gatherings.
Since a local theatre group found out its production of The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe could not go ahead as planned, it has adopted the motto “we will find a way to Narnia”.
The Geelong Society of Operatic and Dramatic Arts has turned to virtual rehearsals in the wake of the coronavirus crisis, which has thrown the arts industry into chaos.
While its production of the C.S Lewis classic will not go ahead as planned at the Geelong Arts Centre in June, GSODA has declared the show must go on, just not as expected.
The production’s vocal director, and GSODA treasurer, Shayne Lowe said in-person rehearsals were stopped last week due to social distancing advice. At the weekend, when the group was forced to cancel its camp, members of the cast – more than 60 kids aged between 11 and 17 – instead connected on social media, posting videos of themselves.
“When they all logged in together on Saturday my computer was going crazy, the excitement was palpable,” Ms Lowe said.
Twice-weekly rehearsals will now be conducted virtually.
Rehearsals kicked off on Tuesday night, with the principal cast of six youngsters dialling in using video conferencing service Zoom.
“Whatever happens with the production in terms of when and where we are able to stage it the kids will be ready to go,” Ms Lowe said.
“They were so excited to be doing something together still.
“A big part of GSODA is the social side.”
Meanwhile, Geelong choir conductor Kym Dillon experimented with a prerecorded session created for his One Voice choir which singers could watch and join in with at their leisure.
Mr Dillon started with a vocal and physical warm-up and went through songs the choir has been working on, and some new pieces.
Karen Feldman’s Dance Studio is using multiple platforms, including Facebook and Zoom, to keep kids engaged.
Owner Karen Feldman said the dance studio had about 1400 students and 12 locations across Greater Geelong.
Classes are taught live but can also be accessed on-demand later.
“It’s been so well-received,” Ms Feldman said. “Our dancers just want to keep on dancing.”