Prince Charming brings theatre smarts to the Central Highlands!

You might know him as the ‘prince’ from recent local performances of Cinderella, The Little Mermaid, and Beauty and the Beast, but off stage, he just prefers Dylan Currie—a local high-schooler at Marist College Emerald.

Dylan has been heavily involved with Emerald’s arts and culture scene for the last four years, performing in musicals, festivals, and school events.

‘My theatrical journey began in 2015, and in 2019 I started private vocal lessons with my amazing teacher, Katie Penfold,’ Currie said.

‘I enrolled in drama and musical theatre classes and auditioned for local plays with school and Emeralds Little Theatre.

‘I never auditioned thinking to be the prince, but I somehow seem to always land that role!’ he continued.

Dylan also participated twice in the State Honours Ensemble Program (SHEP) and was accepted into the Australian Honours Ensemble Program (AHEP). He was one of 50 students amongst over 500 who auditioned.

‘I was really lucky to have the opportunities to attend both programs, and it was a lot of fun,’ Dylan said.

‘When I returned to Emerald, I brought my new skills back to my teachers and other kids interested in theatre and shared my experience working with nationally recognised conductors,’ he continued.

‘I just want to encourage other kids not to be afraid to take a chance and to keep practising. There is no harm in trying, only the regret from never having a go.’

Dylan’s encouragement and involvement in the theatre community were deservingly recognized in January by receiving the Arts and Culture Award at the 2023 Australia Day Awards in Emerald.

‘It was really nice to feel acknowledged,’ said Dylan.

‘It further motivates me to keep going with my dreams,’ he continued.

‘I really hope me winning this award shows others that even though Emerald is a small town, there really is a growing arts and culture community here and that theatre can bring lots of different types of people together.’

Dylan’s achievements will provide an invaluable legacy for future award winners interested in and committed to the arts. This important award is one step in making the Central Highlands a more culturally aware region.

Do you know someone who is an incredible art and cultural activist in your community? You have the chance to make their year by nominating them.

To nominate someone now, head to the website and fill out the form here.

To keep updated on future news regarding council projects like this one, subscribe to our weekly e-newsletter here. Visit our website here for current job opportunities at council.