ŽAŽA Semchyshyn, 15, recently competed at the Elevate Eisteddfod in Sydney, winning the Most Outstanding Performance in her age category (15-18yrs).
It was for her contemporary vocal performance of Sarah Bareilles’ song, “She Used to Be Mine” from the musical “Waitress”.
The eisteddfod focuses on self improvement and growth, offering workshops and industry support to competitors through the Rise Academy.
“I love performing, my passion is music but I also love directing and writing,” Žaža said.
She is in Year 10 and has been a member for three years of the Peak Performing Arts Academy at St Columba Anglican School.
Žaža composes music, plays piano and guitar and is part of the creative team of students scriptwriting and composing the Peak production for 2025, which will be performed in the Iona Theatre in October.
”I have learned a lot in the three years I’ve been involved in the Peak Academy – confidence, collaboration, taking credit for my own work – and I have grown as a performer,” Žaža said.
“Ms Isabella Mistry (Director of Performing Arts at SCAS) is always connecting us, supporting us.
“[She is] a constant who is a strong voice for us.”
Žaža was recently involved in the Shakespeare Carnival, successfully competing at state level as well as performing as part of the ensemble for the senior SCAS production of “The Crucible”.
“I am busy with school, singing lessons (with local teachers Ian Castle and Sarah Wynne), rehearsals and performing,” she said.
“There is a lot of stress but also lots of reward.”
By Pauline CAIN
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