Berwick dancing star Karina Shields, 14, is hard at work rehearsing for Billy Elliot the Musical after scoring a role in the hit show. 25953
By Kelly Yates
BERWICK ballerina Karina Shields has been pirouetting across the stage at Her Majesty’s Theatre after scoring a role in the hit musical Billy Elliot.
The 14-year-old plays the role of one of the ballet girls in Mrs Wilkinson’s class in Australia’s most awarded musical.
Karina says this is the first major production she had been involved with.
The budding performer began rehearsals for the hit stage show in November last year, training every second day for about four hours a session.
Karina said she loved performing in front of a large audience.
“We received a standing ovation after the opening show and it was an amazing feeling,” she said.
Karina has been perfecting her dance skills at the Cathy-Lea Academy of Performing Arts in Narre Warren since she was four years old.
Principal Cathy Smith said she was looking forward to seeing one of her own students on the big stage.
“This is the first time we’ve had a student be involved in a popular main stream production,” she said.
Over the years Karina has specialised in dancing, acting, acrobatics and singing, with neo, jazz and song and dance her favourite styles.
When Karina is not busy rehearsing for Billy Elliot the Musical, the Year 8 student at St Francis Xavier College enjoys karate, watching movies and having sleep-overs with her friends.
For Billy Elliot the Musical tickets please call Ticketek on 1300 555 593 or visit www.billyelliot.com.au.
