Thomastown’s Caitlin Cooper has danced since the early whispers of her childhood.
Now the 18-year-old will take centre stage as one of the principal dancers when the Victorian State Schools Spectacular premieres on Channel 7 and 7Plus this December, after recovering from a significant injury that saw damaged tissue in her leg surgically removed.
The Victorian State Schools Spectacular is an annual show that invites Victorian government primary and secondary school students to perform in front of a live audience at John Cain Arena in Melbourne, working towards a common goal of reaching the highest level of achievement in the arts.
The students, serving as principal vocalists, principal dancers, and backing vocalists, alongside an orchestra and a mass of dancers and singers, related the performances to this year’s theme—Splash.
But before filming the live show in September, key performers went through a process of auditions, showcasing their skills in front of the biggest names in the performing arts, including dance director Yvette Lee.
After recovering from her injury and subsequent surgery, Ms Cooper said she wanted to put herself out there again.
“I was really scared to audition because I had a big injury last year … I really wanted to audition, get myself back into the environment of auditions, and get myself out there, and get my confidence back up,” she said.
“When I went in and tried my best, and did what I could, I got a call back. I was shocked—it was amazing, it felt so good.”
Proceeding to the dance rehearsals, Ms Cooper embraced all opportunities to meet her inspirations, including dance choreographer Sophie Holloway at this year’s Victorian Dance Festival in April.
Ms Cooper said the dance rehearsal period was a fun process, working in a professional environment alongside renowned names in the dance industry.
“We all worked so well together, and I love the self-discipline and being in a professional environment,” she said.
When it came to the big lights and cameras early last month at the John Cain Arena, Ms Cooper was involved in 10 dances, stepping up in different dance styles, including lyrical.
“Every time I think of [the show], I keep getting emotional. I miss it a lot, it was my first … so I’m grateful that I was able to do it. It was a lot of fun,” she said.
“We all became like a family, and they’re all my best friends … joining Spectacular this year, I reunited with some people as well, some girls I used to dance with, or we grew up together.
“One of my favourite parts … were all the mass kids that look up to you, and hence why I felt like a celebrity, because they look up to you, and they adore you.”
Currently training at Jason Coleman’s Ministry of Dance, a performing arts college in Melbourne, Ms Cooper said she planned on dancing full time, specifically on cruise ships one day.
The Victorian State Schools Spectacular premieres on Channel 7 and 7Plus on December 14.
