Wagga production wows Canberra Area Theatre Award judges for best costume award

The Southern Cross Performing Arts' artistic director Lydia McNamara won the award for Best Costume Design for a School or Youth Production at the Canberra Area Theatre Awards for the school's production of The Little Mermaid.

Four judges attended two shows in Wagga last year to rate the production based on a set criteria.

The performance was staged at Kildare Catholic College in July, 2014 and it was six long months before Mrs McNamara discovered they were successful.

Their interpretation of the 1989 Disney classic, which featured 60 performers aged five to early 20s, was nominated for five awards.

"I have these dreams and I have such talented students," Mrs McNamara said.

"To be nominated in that calibre against those who do this for a serious living is such a big honour.

"It's a thrill that Wagga gets to fall into that category ... it shows you what talent lies here at our doorstep.

“You can see that they are taking notice.”

Mrs McNamara chose The Little Mermaid because the storyline and songs in the movie would translate well on stage.

Mrs McNamara designed the costumes for the production but said it was a talented team of parents and volunteers that put her visions on the stage.

Mrs McNamara grew up in Sydney and is endeavouring to bring the musical and theatrical opportunities she had as a child to students in Wagga through her talent agency, Shooting Star Talent.

Those interested in dancing, acting, cheerleading or performing can contact Mrs McNamara on wapa1@optusnet.com.au.​

The Southern Cross Performing Arts Canberra Area Theatre Awards nominations