From suburban dance school to Anastasia the musical

Four young actresses have been chosen to star in Anastasia the musical during its Adelaide run. Nancye Hayes AM, Rhonda Burchmore and Georgina Hopson are also part of the cast. The season continues at the Adelaide Festival Centre until the end of August.

Aria Piteo, a 10-year-old, has landed the lead role of Little Anastasia and is set to make her professional theatre debut. She expressed her nervousness about performing but remains determined, quoting, "You can do it Ari, yes, you can do it."

Audrey Burnett, another 11-year-old cast member, shared similar feelings of nervousness but believes her selection was due to her talent. She emphasized the importance of resilience and support from her fellow cast members.

The girls were selected after three rounds of auditions, with many talented competitors vying for the roles. Their dance school, Barbara Jayne Dance Centre, in Norwood, played a significant role in preparing them for the demanding professional stage.

Barbara Komazec, who has run the dance centre for 51 years, highlighted the necessity of talent and resilience for the girls to succeed in the competitive world of theatre. She also emphasized the value of learning from professionals and working with choreographers and directors during their performances.

The youngest cast member, Isla Bahrami at nine years old, was equally excited and shocked upon receiving her role. She expressed her eagerness to perform alongside Nancye Hayes AM, Australian theatre icon, who plays the Dowager Empress.

Despite the excitement, the girls admitted to feeling nervous, especially when their mothers were in the audience. Despite the nerves, the quartet remains united as a tight-knit group, supporting each other through every stage of the rehearsal and performance process.