In the heart of Sydney's inner west, a small town called Newtown is making waves in the entertainment industry. This unassuming suburb has become the launching pad for two young women who are now global screen stars. It's a remarkable feat, especially considering the rarity of having two hometown heroes on the big screen at the same time. What makes this story even more captivating is the journey of these two talented individuals, Catherine Laga'aia and Milly Alcock, who started their acting careers at the Newtown High School of Performing Arts.
The school, established in 1990, has become a breeding ground for aspiring performers, offering a unique blend of general admissions and audition intakes. Head drama teacher, Daniel Kavanagh, recalls the moment he first noticed Laga'aia's potential. He remembered her during the audition process, where her ability to listen, collaborate, and use creativity stood out. Despite not being an acting prodigy, her overall qualities made her a standout candidate. Laga'aia's intelligence, positive attitude, and eagerness to work made her a high achiever, and her father's background in the industry likely played a significant role in her development.
Alcock, on the other hand, was a thoughtful and analytical student who joined the school's faculty around a decade ago. Mr. Kavanagh recognized her potential, noting her keen observation skills and quiet nature. Despite facing financial challenges, Alcock was offered a partial scholarship to study abroad during the holidays, which fueled her passion for the performing arts. However, the opportunity to play Moana came at an inopportune time for Laga'aia, as it often does for students. The school worked tirelessly to accommodate her schedule, allowing her to email assessment tasks and sit her HSC exams while filming in the US. Laga'aia's commitment to her studies and her ability to maintain a normal student life is a testament to her dedication.
Alcock's journey took an unexpected turn when she landed a role in the television series Upright alongside Tim Minchin. This opportunity meant she couldn't finish her HSC as planned, but it also paved the way for her to star in HBO's House of the Dragon and the American black comedy series Sirens. Her transformation into Supergirl in the latest DC Universe film is a testament to her versatility and talent. Mr. Kavanagh reflects on the school's strengths, highlighting the dedicated staff and the supportive environment that fosters the growth of young performers.
The impact of these two former students' success on the community is undeniable. The local cinema, Dendy Newtown, is buzzing with excitement, as employees and patrons alike celebrate the area's representation on the big screen. General manager Elliott Collins describes it as a 'super special' moment, a celebration of the community's world-class talent. For Mr. Kavanagh, seeing the posters for both films during a recent cinema visit was a proud teacher moment, a reminder of the school's ability to nurture and support young talent.
This story is a testament to the power of local talent and the impact it can have on a community. It raises questions about the role of public schools in fostering creativity and the importance of supporting young performers. As these two stars continue to shine, Newtown can take pride in its contribution to the entertainment industry, and the world can marvel at the power of local talent to make a global impact.
