Argentina is a long way from Ballarat but for musical theatre performers David Sirianni and Zoy Frangos it’s the world they are inhabiting for the next 10 weeks.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
The two actors are performing in the blockbuster production of Evita at Melbourne’s State Theatre, alongside Tina Arena as Eva Peron.
David Sirianni, who studied Federation University Arts Academy’s Bachelor of Music Theatre from 2013 to 2015, is not just on stage but has the important role of dance captain and swing which involves watching the show from the audience several times a week.
“As dance captain my job is to maintain the choreography in the show once the initial choreographer and director leaves. As part of that responsibility I’ll watch the show from the front a few times a week to make sure all the dancers do the choreography as directed.
“And as swing in this production I understudy 13 men in the male ensemble so if one of them is off or sick or injured or the understudy goes on for the lead I step in.”
Evita charts the story of Eva Perón, wife of former Argentine dictator Juan Perón, from her humble beginnings through to the extraordinary wealth, power and status which ultimately led her to be heralded as the ‘spiritual leader of the nation’.
“When you study together for three years, five days a week, you make some good friends. When you move to Ballarat to study, everyone is out of home so you’ve got no choice but to create your own little family.”
Castmate Zoy Frangos, who grew up in Ballarat, is one of the singing ensemble in the production, and admits to having little knowledge of the show before auditioning for the role.
“I hadn’t seen it … but it’s a great repertoire for my voice,” he said.
“It was actually nice to go in with no expectations of it.
“I know a lot of people joined the cast excited to be part of a show they’ve dreamed about their whole life but sometimes I like to go in and get the full experience.”
Have you signed up to The Courier's daily newsletter and breaking news emails? You can register below and make sure you are up to date with everything that's happening in Ballarat.