Interview with Accelerando Alumni Elizabeth Victoria Pardallis.

With applications for the 2024 Accelerando Program now open, we thought we’d chat with program alumni Elizabeth Victoria Pardallis. Studying musical theatre at the Victoria College of the Arts, she is an artist with big dreams. As part of the Accelerando program, Elizabeth was involved in industry workshops, instrumental lessons, mentor sessions and a performance in the Primrose Potter Salon.

When were you part of the Accelerando program?
I was in the Accelerando program for 3 years – from 2020 to 2022.

What are you doing now?
I’m currently studying for a Bachelor of Fine Arts (Music Theatre) at the Victorian College of the Arts – my dream course!

When did you first start singing?
I started singing at a young age due to the culture of my mum’s family but it wasn’t until grade 3 that I actually started singing as a hobby because of my Greek school principal. More specifically, as a musician, I’ve taken the path of music theatre and although I performed in a few productions throughout high school, it actually wasn’t until last year that I performed in my first amateur musical as ‘Molly’ in Soundworks Productions’ 13.

Who are your musical heroes?
I take inspiration from a lot of artists but, since meeting her, the person I look up to most is my Accelerando mentor, Elise McCann. Not only is she a passionate performing artist – about to play ‘Donna’ in the 2023 Australian revival of Mamma Mia! – but she is also a driven businesswoman – even having co-created a well-being app called Hey Lemonade! Studying and working to have a career in Music Theatre, I aspire to develop the qualities she has so I can become a skilled, well-respected and impassioned artist – just as she has shown herself to be.

What has been your performance highlight so far?
My performance highlight so far would have to be performing in the Victorian State Schools Spectacular at John Cain Arena and on Channel 7 between 2016 and 2022. Working on such a large-scale production with quality creators and a supportive cast for 7 years played a key part in my development – not only as a performer but also as a person. The confidence and experience I gained from this project is something that ultimately led me to apply for Accelerando; further building upon the knowledge I required and furthering my career.

How would you describe your overall experience in the Accelerando program?
It’s hard to find words to describe how life-changing the Accelerando program is. It’s a combination of a wealth of industry knowledge and wholehearted support from the Melbourne Recital Centre’s wonderful Learning and Access Manager, Belinda Ashe. This experience is priceless.

What did you enjoy the most about the Accelerando program?
What I enjoyed most about the Accelerando program was being around other creatives and performers. It’s something that gave me a lot of drive and motivation to further pursue a career in the arts. Furthermore, with a generous allowance to go see shows, I was able to see and immerse myself in a variety of theatre shows that otherwise would have been inaccessible to me.

What skills did you gain from having sessions with some of Australia’s top performers and educators?
Each year it was practically guaranteed that every participant of Accelerando was going to gain an abundance of tools to help them navigate their career. For me, it was a variety of workshops that gave me a better understanding of the business part of being a musician – especially relating to things that I’m passionate about such as social media. From using Instagram as just a personal platform, I’ve turned my account, @elizabthvic, into a page where I can connect with other creatives and that helps me reach my audience to let them know how they can support me!

What is next for you in your music journey?
When Company ’25 graduates, I’m determined to make my professional theatre debut. Until then, for the next two and a half years, you will be able to find me on The University of Melbourne’s Southbank Campus where I’ll be focusing on my studies for the duration of my course. While I’m here, I’m definitely cashing in on my hunger to learn and grow, taking in everything I can from my university experience.

Why should students apply for Accelerando in 2024?
For all the reasons I’ve mentioned above! If you’re a musician who’s eager to learn more, and who wants to be immersed in the Melbourne music scene, I urge you to apply for Accelerando. If you have even the slightest doubt, don’t let it stop you. This program has the ability to change your life.

Applications for the 2024 Accelerando are now open and will close on Friday 15 September 2023 at midnight.

Please read the Application & Audition Guidelines located in the Downloads section of this page.

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