Anastasia: A mesmerising musical journey hits Toowoomba for the first time!
Prepare to be enchanted by the extraordinary music ability of Neil Roch-Kelly, the creative force behind Concordia Lutheran College's production of Anastasia. As the Music Director, Neil weaves his lifelong passion for musical theatre into every note of this show. A music teacher at Concordia, Neil's love for theatre started at the age of 10 and has grown ever since. “I have been involved in over 50 productions both amateur and professional,” he said.
Growing up attending a school that celebrated musicals Neil added: "I was a boy soprano and very much encouraged to be involved in performances outside of school hours. This early exposure began a lifelong dedication to theatre, that includes his memorable portrayal of a lead role in Miss Saigon with the Toowoomba Choral Society in 2015.
As Neil takes on the challenge of directing music for Anastasia, he is discovering wonder after wonder.
"The score of Anastasia is written like a movie soundtrack with lots of Easter eggs in the music. It is very clever," he said.
The production also highlights Concordia's commitment to excellence.
“We are so proud of the magic that we have been able to bring to this story. The audience will be mesmerised by the scale of the production, and I believe they will forget that they are watching a school musical,” he said.
This is a unique moment for Toowoomba, being the city’s first major staging of Anastasia.
Amidst the standout performances and elaborate set designs, Neil's favourite music moment is the Quartet at the Ballet, where the characters watch Swan Lake.
“It is an amazing piece of music,” he said.
On top of his impressive work with musical theatre, Neil also indulges his musical talents through several live bands.
Recently, Neil joined the United Kingdom’s ‘80s band Bad Manners on a tour across Australia and New Zealand.
Whether he’s leading a musical team at Concordia or igniting crowds on a band tour, Neil’s dedication to his craft shows in every performance.
Anastasia opens this weekend at the Empire Theatre. Don’t miss the chance to experience this magical musical.
