STAR Struck is back with a unique show allowing every student to ‘Rise Up’ for the show’s 29th year.

After the unfortunate decision to cancel the show in 2020 due to COVID-19, changes were made to the show to allow for 2021’s performances.

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With only 90 minutes of performance, no interval, two casts and no choir, it seemed as though some of the Star Struck magic may have been lost with the cuts.

This was certainly not the case.

Every student shone in a way that audiences have never seen before showing some of the most talented individuals that the extended Hunter region has to offer.

Port Stephens’ own Irrawang High Senior Drum Corps began the show with Thunderstruck and from that moment, it was clear that audiences were in for a strong show.

Cameron Elkin returned as compere for the show and delighted audiences with his witty, comedic remarks and high kicks, leaving the actual dancing to the talented students of the two casts.

Port Stephens’ students shone in songs including Larger Than Life, Black and Gold and Truth Beauty Freedom Love along with featured dancers, drama students, members of the signingsinging choir and orchestra and backing vocalists.

Stand out vocal performances came from Marnie Nebauer and Riley Stobbs with The Show Must Go On, sending chills down the spines of listeners, whilst Logan Biles’ rendition of Telly showcased his high level of performance ability.

Emily Gardner wowed all with a performance of Into The Unknown that cemented her place in the professional music industry, and clearly has a remarkable future ahead of her.

Dan Wilson’s music direction ensured that only the highest level of skill was showcased by all involved, from the phenomenal orchestra to the eighteen backing vocalists taking the place of the choir and featured vocalists.

Across eleven segments, audiences were delighted by a unique range of talent displaying just how students, teachers and industry professionals managed to ‘Rise Up’ to put on a professional show for 2021.

By Tara CAMPBELL