WANT TO BE A MOVIE STAR? FORGET THE JAZZ HANDS
THEY sure aren’t shy but are these Gold Coast teens ready to break the ice in the big, bad world of acting?
With movie star Ben Mingay helping them put their best foot forward they’ve got every chance.
The Hacksaw Ridge actor has hit the Gold Coast to lend some expert advice to students taking part in the Gold Coast Arts Centre’s talent program, Green Room, which was created by musical theatre producer Matt Ward.
Mr Mingay said he believes the Gold Coast is bursting with raw talent and said there was another “Margot Robbie” among us.
“I love being here to help them put their foot in the right direction,” he said. “It is just little bits of guidance here and there that I can add to their performances that really help them.
“Because really it is rare to get a chance to work with industry professionals, especially if you’re a kid. In a way, this is kind of like a masterclass.
“It’s tough getting into the industry and you really need some inroads getting in.”
Mr Mingay said one of the best pieces of advice he could offer was to give “jazz hands” a miss.
“Hone your craft and be yourself,” he said. “That sets you apart from anyone else.
“There is such a thing as overacting and I find young people don’t know this. Just be natural and forget the jazz hands.”
One of those shining brightly at the three-day talent workshop is 18-year-old Chloe Finlay.
The rising star is heading to Japan’s Universal Studios in February to kickstart her theatre career.
“I’ve been taking part in the Green Room program for five years and it is so much more than a singing and dancing class,” she said.
“You get a great insight into the industry and I think that’s something really unique which not a lot of people have the opportunity of doing.”