Charlotte Macdonald (fr 2021) placed second in the recent Palladian Solo Vocal competition with her performance of “Being Alive” from ‘Company’ by Stephen Sondheim. We spoke to fresher Charlotte about her performance and how St Andrew’s supports her endeavours.
What degree are you studying, and which school did you attend?
I am in my first year of studying a Bachelor of Advanced Studies (Politics and International Relations)/Bachelor of Arts (majoring in Theatre and Performance Studies) at the University of Sydney. Previously I attended Roseville College.
Tell us about your Palladian performance, and why you chose that particular piece?
For my Palladian performance I sang “Being Alive” from the musical ‘Company’ by Stephen Sondheim. I first performed this song in 2018, after seeing the recent ‘Company’ revival on the West End. This musical, originally performed in 1970, revolves around Robert, a 35-year-old man unable to commit to a steady relationship, and the five married couples who are his best friends. The 2018 revival gender-swapped many of the characters, including Robert. Seeing “Being Alive” performed by a woman brought new life to the song, and I was extremely moved by the performance. Ever since then, it has become one of my favourite pieces to sing, and I was so thrilled to be able to perform it at Palladian.
What is your musical background?
I have been singing ever since I can remember, but my real passion for performance was sparked in Year 3 when I attended my first ever Australian Girls Choir rehearsal. I was in the choir from ages 8-18, and was lucky enough to be named the Choir Leader for NSW in 2020. Through the choir, I was involved in many fabulous performances and opportunities. These included performing with Hugh Jackman in his 2015 and 2019 Australian tours, on programs like Sunrise and Today Show, and at national sporting events like The Bledisloe Cup. Through the choir, my singing and acting was improved, and I was instilled with a lifetime love for performance.
How does being a St Andrew’s student support your interests and your goals?
When applying for colleges at University of Sydney, St Andrew’s immediately stood out to me. The focus on music and performance was unparalleled. Since starting at Drew’s, I have not been disappointed. As a member of the College Chapel Choir, I have already had the opportunity to teach and perform one of my favourite choral pieces at a recent Chapel service. Although my degree focuses mainly on Politics and International Relations, I still hope to work in the performing arts in one way or another. The many programs on offer at Drew’s allow me to improve my musical and dramatic ability. This is an opportunity I definitely would not have been afforded elsewhere, so I am so thrilled to be able to attend St Andrew’s.
As a fresher just starting on your St Andrew’s journey, in which areas are you hoping to contribute to College?
I am extremely excited to contribute to Drew’s in any way I can, especially through the performing arts. I look forward to trying out for future Palladian events, like Ensemble Vocal and Drama, and for the annual Dramsoc production later in the year. Whilst I have not performed yet, watching the first Jam Night of Semester 1 was great fun, and I can’t wait to get involved in future. I am excited to continue learning and performing in the College Choir, whilst also lending my loudest cheering voice to the sidelines of every sporting match.
Photo credit: Charlotte and accompanist Dani at the 2021 Palladian Solo Vocal event