Adelaide has several wonderful dance/vocal establishments that train young budding artists in the skills required to pursue a career in the performing arts. Star Academy is one of our leading creative centres, and their 2024 Fringe production certainly is a reminder as to why this is the case. The Revolting Children of Tomorrow features students from across Star Academy’s various classes. The story is centred around Annie and Matilda who share a dream to make it to Broadway and become a star. This 45 minute show follows Annie and Matilda as they journey to New York, meeting a series of colourful characters along the way as they attempt to get their name in lights. Add in a touch of magic from their ‘Fairy Stage Mother’ and you have a light-hearted, fun theatre experience packed with huge dance and vocal routines from these very talented students. Each student was brilliant. It is clear they all have been well trained. The big song/dance numbers were tight and well choreographed. Vocally, all these kids have exceptional voices that have been well trained. It is hard to pinpoint a single act within this show as a highlight, as in the words of my eight-year-old daughter, “They were all amazing”. The two leads, Kimora Njoroge (Annie) and Zoe Burns (Matilda) were excellent. They kept the pace of the show moving with their dialogue, slipping in and out of the larger ensemble routines showcasing their great vocal and dance abilities. I wish that a program was included so the other cast members who had solo moments could be praised — each held their own and were equally as good. Whilst the show did move with a good pace to keep the younger audience members focused, there were times when the script felt unnecessary and rather under-written. Also, as the show used pre-recorded music, the appearance of an overture was not needed — give us more excellent song and dance routines instead! If you have a young human who is showing interest in the performing arts, this is a great show to attend with them. It is a showcase of what is achievable through hard work, determination and practice. It is always pleasing when you can see the future of the arts in South Australia is in safe hands like it is with the students of Star Academy.