Happily ever after found for local performer

Venturing into the woods of auditions, casting and stage performances is no new thing for Performing Arts alumna Amanda Hock.

Playing the role of The Witch in Into the Woods alongside a number of fellow CQUniversity alums in the Rockhampton Regional Council’s adaptation, Amanda’s performing experience spans back even before her time as a CQUniversity student.

“I have performed since I was very young, and after I graduated from high school I went on to study Performing Arts at CQU and then went on to become a Performing Arts educator,” Ms Hock said.

“I have always performed in addition to my teaching role, whether on the stage or in bands.

“Lots of things inspire me – all mediums of art, particularly visual art, music and theatre – and I love working with new people. It’s great to continuously learn from other performing artists and directors, and my husband and children are also a massive drive for my creativity.”

Enthralled by the complexity of the upcoming play, and the nostalgic beauty of the Pilbeam Theatre, the seasoned performer is excited to see the final production come together across the five upcoming shows and be a part of yet another display of culture and creativity for locals in the region.

“I have performed in Rockhampton Regional Council musicals for the past 14 years and so the Pilbeam Theatre is a very special place to me – I always enjoy building a show in that space,” Ms Hock said.

“Into the Woods is a very challenging show for a lot of reasons, so I am really looking forward to the final complexities coming together and local audiences enjoying the entertainment our cultural community provides.”

Contributing to, and being part of the fabric of the region’s cultural community, Ms Hock said she has seen the value of cultivating arts in the regions and can attest to the support and nurturing nature of the community that has seen many talented and successful artists arise from the Rockhampton and Capricorn Coast localities.

“Rockhampton and the Capricorn Coast is a cultural hub and has helped mould and produce incredible talent over many decades, many of which are now professional and successful performing artists, musicians and visual artists,” Ms Hock said.

“It’s the support and nurturing capacity of regional communities that can support and strengthen young and emerging talent and give them opportunities that might not occur in a metropolitan environment.

“It is easy to say that there are more avenues and opportunities for artists in a larger space – however the platform of a regional centre is incomparable in my opinion.”

Amanda joins 13 other CQUniversity alumni who hold roles in the show – ranging from cast members to production and orchestra.

Into the Woods is showing at the Pilbeam Theatre in Rockhampton from 17th - 25th March 2023 where tickets can be purchased online.

To find out more about studying Theatre at CQUniversity, visit cqu.edu.au/courses/bachelor-of-theatre.