Broadway Sessions: An Invitation to Music Theatre Lovers
Broadway Sessions has entered its third year and co-producers Peter Johns and Scott Reynolds are proud of their musical brainchild.
The producers are extending an invitation to interstate and international performers touring Adelaide. Anyone can register, but Johns and Reynolds conduct a selection process.
Broadway Sessions is a unique open-mic experience with a musical theatre focus, and boasts the wealth of talent on offer in Adelaide, the UNESCO City of Music.
Held on the last Sunday of each month, every session is an inclusive opportunity for performers to sing a song from the musical theatre genre accompanied by a live, professional band.
Since its inception in 2015, the Adelaide theatre community has embraced Broadway Sessions and it has become a staple of their social calendars. In 2018, the Johns and Reynolds have bigger plans for Broadway Sessions and they recently stepped it up by taking Broadway Sessions on tour to Balaklava.
So, if you’re thinking ‘how do I sign up for this fabulous opportunity?’, then read on because here is the how-to of registration.
- Registrations open approximately four weeks before the next session
- Create an account on the Broadway Sessions website
- Your songs must be from a published musical or written by a musical theatre writer
- Sessions are often themed, so check the site and social media for updates
- Enter your two song preferences; two options ensure a varied programme
- Upload your bio and head shot to your online account
- If you are selected to sing, you will be notified by email
With a two-hour program, the number of performers taken on each month is limited. However, those who miss out on one attempt will be given preference in later months, so everyone can have their moment. If you register and sing at a Session, your entry to the venue is completely free. Performers at every stage of their development can present themselves in an encouraging, creative environment. I interviewed some regular singers to find out why they love performing in this event.
Chloe Hall
“Broadway Sessions is so much fun! It’s like a cross between an open mic night and a stand-up comedy show, and so many people get the opportunity to sing and perform! I’ve felt my confidence and love for singing coming back, which I lost for a while. I’m studying education and makeup artistry, I’m obsessed with musical theatre, and I work at Theatre Bugs. The last song I sang was ‘Everything I Know’ from the musical In the Heights.”
Casmira Hambledon
“Broadway Sessions gives me a chance to try new material. My dreams came true when I sang ‘Shadowland’ from The Lion King with five of the most incredible back up singers. Most recently I’ve played the lead in the musical Violet, and Fantine in Les Miserables. The last song I sang was ‘I Dreamed a Dream’ as a promotion for the upcoming production by the G & S Society of SA. It’s an inclusive and supportive environment, and it fills the need I have to perform as often as I can. The band is incredible, the performers are eclectic and talented, and I am introduced to new songs/shows with many interpretations that help me grow as a performer.”
Eloise QV
“I love that Broadway Sessions brings the Adelaide musical theatre community together on a regular basis to just have some fun and perform in a friendly environment. I have been singing, dancing, and acting in musicals, concerts, and choirs since the age of four. Most recently, I have performed in Therry’s production of Fiddler on the Roof. Every time I perform it is always so exciting to see everything come together. The last song I sang was ‘Everybody Wants to be a Cat’ from The Aristocats at the Disney-themed night.”
Sarah Whiteley
“The best thing that has happened to me through Broadway Sessions is the offer of roles after my performances which showcased my strengths. I’m a professional singer and voice teacher with a Bachelor of Music in jazz performance and pedagogy. The last song I sang was ‘I’m Here’ from The Colour Purple. I urge those who feel they have more to give to showcase their skills through Broadway Sessions. This event has facilitated a meet-and-greet for newcomers to the industry who may not have previously been noticed for their strengths in performance. The community can mingle, and theatre companies can support each other.”
If these testimonials aren’t enough to convince you, take my word for it as I have enjoyed stepping on that stage and singing a musical theatre tune and being entertained by wonderful performers. Broadway Sessions is the hottest ticket in town nestled amongst all of the world-renowned festivals that Adelaide hosts. For a humble $15 you can enjoy two hours of high-quality entertainment in an intimate cabaret setting.
This exciting public event is held monthly at Norwood Live, 97 The Parade, Norwood in South Australia.
