The Central Queensland Conservatorium of Music lecturers and students both past and present will take on a variety of lead roles in the up and coming Mackay Choral Society production of 'The Gondoliers'.

Heading a ‘Mackay’ star cast, is Performer and Musical Director Dimitri Kopanakis who takes a major role to sing the main baritone role of Giuseppe. Dimitri, an ex-Conservatorium lecturer, will travel up from Sydney to work with producer Kim Kirkman and his cast.

Kim, well known Conservatorium lecturer and performer in Mackay, was recently interviewed by TIME magazine for his role as producer of 'The Gondoliers' and is also singing the role of tenor Marco.

A talented third year Bachelor of Music Theatre student, Cilla Slack, plays the role of soprano Gianetta and will be accompanied by Kathleen Campbell, first year Bachelor of Music student playing the soprano role of Casilda. Luke Venebles, a graduate of Central Queensland University (CQU) will sing the role of Luis.

Megan Menzies, Brendan Smith, Beeke Smith and Renee Freakley, all Bachelor of Music students, will be playing in the orchestra of the production, as will Conservatorium drum teacher, Ray Agius.

The show commences on August 24 and runs through until the August 27, so why not come along and see for yourself the great talent that the Conservatorium continually strives to create! Tickets are available by phoning the Conservatorium on 4940 7800.

Photo above: (left to right) Kathleen Campbell, first year Bachelor of Music student, playing Casilda; Karen Bishop, choreographer and CQCM dance teacher; and Kim Kirkman, CQCM lecturer and music director, playing Marco in the Mackay Choral Society production of 'The Gondoliers'.