All that jazz pays off as STAG members earn statewide honours

It was an evening few will soon forget at the Music Theatre Guild of Victoria’s 38th Annual Bruce Awards on Saturday, December 13, particularly for Shepparton Theatre Arts Group.

Celebrating the best of non-professional musical theatre across the state, STAG emerged as one of the standout companies.

That’s no surprise, really.

STAG’s September production of CHICAGO was worthy of animal kingdom-level pride and chest puffery.

Staged during the company’s 50th anniversary year, the show sold out two weeks before opening night, perked the ears of more than 2000 patrons, and became one of the group’s most successful productions to date.

That success translated to the awards stage, with three performers recognised.

Ryan Black received the Gladys Moncrieff Award for First Featured Performance for his portrayal of Amos Hart, and described the moment as “surreal”.

“When they read out my name, everything kind of happened in slow motion,” he said.

“I was not expecting it at all, and I felt honoured just to be nominated.

“These awards are quite rare, and I never thought one day I’d be the recipient of one.”

Nicola Villani was presented with a Judges’ Award for her commitment to character as a member of the ensemble — an honour she was “tricked” into receiving.

“STAG told me that I was going there to collect an award on behalf of the company ... and then they called my name,” she said.

“Even after I walked off stage with the Bruce, little me was entirely in shock.

“The Guilds are like the Brownlow, so to be recognised, it means everything to me.”

Juliana de Quilettes received the Doreen Burrows Award for Lead Performer in a Female Presenting Role for her portrayal of Roxie Hart.

Ironically, her name was announced just as she disappeared into her role, preparing to perform Funny Honey with Mr Black, Dan Fenby and Anson Kearney.

“To be able to accept the award as Roxy was quite fitting ... (and) very, very, typical of her character to want to be in the spotlight,” Ms de Quilettes said.

STAG also celebrated nominations for Mr Kearney, Aaron David Palmer and Connor McDonald.

While individual performances were recognised, the cast was quick to acknowledge the team behind the production, including director Helen Janke, vocal coach Nerolie Cochrane and choreographer Grace Newman.

But above all, the accolades were shared with the broader STAG community.

“It takes a village, but CHICAGO took a small city,” Ms de Quilettes said.

“It wasn’t just the performers on stage; there were so many creatives, supporters and sponsors on and off stage, and without them, we couldn’t have shone as brightly as we did.

“What we do is voluntary as well, so I would love to accept this award on behalf of all of those people who helped put on such a fantastic show.”