This week, The Korovian Club hosted Korowa Connections: Behind the Curtain, an event part of the Korowa Connections Speakers’ Series. The panel series highlights contemporary issues in society, with a particular focus on the role of women. Panel speakers are almost always Korovians, highlighting and celebrating the diversity of our alumni and experiences. It is an event that draws together all sections of our community past and current students, staff and parents. The Korovian Club seeks to engage current students with Korovians, offering valuable insights into life beyond school.
The Panelists
Korowa Connections: Behind the Curtain - Women Shaping the Future of Television, Film and Theatre was a great success. With an audience comprising of students, staff and parents it really brought together all sections of our community. Exploring the topic, we were privileged to listen to five Korovians give their insights into the performing arts industry. The Panelists included:
- Pam Barnes (Class of 1964) - Former Executive Producer and winner of three Logies
- Louise Siversen (Class of 1975) - Actor and performed with the MTC
- Ana Mitsikas (Class of 1990) - Co-founder and Artistic Director of Stage Left Performing Arts School
- Marney McQueen (Class of 1996) - Accomplished Actor, currently portraying Celine Dion in the musical Titanique
- Charlotte Lane (Class of 2007) - Award-winning Set, Costume and Production Design
Shared Insights
Points of commonality were the importance of mentors in their careers, self-belief, and the unwavering determination, courage, and initiative required to thrive in the performing arts. The audience was deeply moved by the panelists' shared passion for the creative process. They each embraced the artistry of storytelling to not only entertain but also challenge, inspire, and transform.The conversation also provided a thought-provoking look at the evolving role of women in an industry once dominated by men. The audience heard diverse perspectives shaped by the panelists’ careers across eras from the 1960s to the 2000s. Their stories highlighted the progress made in terms of equality and opportunities, but also the ongoing challenges that remain.Student Claire, Year 9, who attended, reflected:"Behind the curtain was a unique and uplifting event. We learnt about the performing arts industry and its impact on the panel throughout their lives. We heard about their experiences as creative women, both the inspiring stories and the challenging ones. I think the empowering messages that were expressed were especially important for females and performers in this current age."
Powerful Reminder
The evening served as a powerful reminder of the importance of mentorship, storytelling, and female representation in the arts. Furthermore, the evening highlighted the Korovian Club’s continued commitment to appreciating Korowa’s rich history and traditions while supporting the school community through volunteerism and philanthropy. By inspiring the next generation of leaders and creatives, the event encapsulated the essence of what it means to be a Korovian - connected, celebrated, and appreciative of the community that shapes us.
