One of Australia’s leading choreographers selected the cast for Central Queensland Conservatorium of Music’s Chicago performance at the weekend.

Chicago Musical Director Judith Brown said students performed individually and completed dance classes before auditioning for Brisbane-based choreographer Trevor Green.

“Trevor is an immensely talented performer and has been responsible for numerous national events with some of his work including the choreography for the 2001 Goodwill Games gala opening,” she said.

“He has performed for the Sydney Dance Company and the Queensland Ballet, so we were extremely fortunate to have had his invaluable input.” The students’ singing talents amazed Mr Green.

“The casting was quite difficult as a lot of people were quite even in their talents,” he said.

“I was also blown away by the facilities offered to students. I’m not sure if they realise how lucky they are to have the opportunity to work in one of Australia’s best performance facilities.” The auditions also allowed Chicago Production Manager Garrick Jones to reminisce about his days working in Opera Queensland’s opening season of Die Fledermaus in 1982.

“Trevor and I hadn’t seen each other for 21 years until this weekend. His career highlights reflect the dedicated career structure of any talented Australian performer,” he said.

Within a week the cast of 30 students will know their roles for the August 21-23 performance.

Photo caption: CQCM educators Garrick Jones (left) and Judith Brown examine the Chicago musical score with choreographer Trevor Green before auditioning students at the weekend.