Filed Under On Newsletters Jul 3 2009
Dear KPG Member, Approaching the last week of term, I am sure you will all agree that together we have made fabulous progress! There’s lots to look forward to in terms 3 and 4 and I have to say that best of all, I am finally getting to you all. We have a fair number of new enrolments coming on board in term 3 and I am sure you will all join me in welcoming them to the KPG family! Now down to business…
IMPROV CAMP: The story about Improvcamp aired on SUNRISE this week and naturally has caused the phones to ring off the hook! So please ensure your forms are in and your fees are paid. Here is the link to the show if you missed it: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xFbv7MB9SUI - Limited spaces apply so get moving as 5pm, Monday 6 July is the absolute deadline. Call us today for more information or visit the website on www.performingartstours.com.au
SINGER/SONGWRITER CAMP IS HAPPENING: Come live the dream! Only 12 places left! For all the information and to enroll, please visit http://www.performingartstours.com.au/ShowPage/38.html - enrolments needs to close 6 July!
THE BIG BAD MUSICAL: The cast & crew would like to thank everyone who came out and supported The Big Bad Musical! It was a wonderful experience for all those involved! One of the nicest things was to see the KPG community come together to help make the show a success. The following people donated their time and talent to The Big Bad Musical: Catherine & Hugh Elliott (KPG parents) - helped bring the props and set to the theatre; Jess Elliott (ex-KPG student) - filmed the show; Clare Hanoumis (Maree’s daughter) - operated the spotlight; Danielle Macdonald (KPG student) - helped bring the props and set to the theatre and supervised backstage; Adam Horner (KPG student) - supervised backstage; Matt Gray (brother of KPG student) - helped backstage; Daniella Serret (KPG student) - supervised backstage; Ashleigh O’Brien (ex-KPG student) - did the makeup for the show; Bridget Haberecht (KPG student) - helped backstage; Natasha Graham (KPG student) - helped backstage; Khali Grimshaw (KPG teacher) - supervised backstage; Dexter Sue (KPG student) - helped backstage; Nicky Joffe (KPG admin) - sold tickets at the show; Maree Hanoumis (KPG accounts) - sold tickets at the show; Marg Haynes (KPG director) - filmed and bumped out; Sami Kerr (ex-KPG student/admin/teacher) - designed the backdrop and props; Cathy Butz (KPG mum) - donated the artwork for posters and programmes. A big thank you to everyone! From Erika Slozak - Production Manager
JOSEPH AND THE AMAZING TECHNICOLORED DREAMCOAT: Can’t wait to get back on stage? Rehearsals for our next musical production, Joseph, begin in Term 3. Joseph is also our end of year concert in which everyone will perform. However, if you are looking for a lead or ensemble role, you will want to enrol in the Joseph Performing Arts Workshop (PAW). The PAW meets Saturdays 9:30am-12:30pm and is for anyone aged 3 - 30 years. Our little KICK starters and any kids under 8 don’t need to worry about coming to those rehearsals as you will all be in the show and will cover your singing, dance or drama scenes in your classes through the term. Triple Threat kids that want to join the PAW will need to move to the Saturday afternoon or Tuesday evening Triple Threat class. If you have a class that clashes with the Joseph rehearsals - please don’t panic, talk to me and we will work it out. The PAW will commence the first Saturday of Term 3 and auditions for specific roles will be held within the first few weeks of term. Please enrol for this PAW as you would any other KPG class. There is a $65 show fee for all KPG students which includes a cast t-shirt and costume hire. Costs for the PAW is $150 per term for the rehearsals and musical theatre exam. This excludes the show fee. (See website for details).
RAD BALLET AT KPG: Under the guidance of Val Lloyd, we will be running RAD ballet classes for those kids who would like to continue to progress with their RAD exams. Your current ballet classes will remain – but the Monday afternoon will now be in place to get the RAD work within KPG stabilized. (RAD ballet kids need to do more than one ballet class per week). Classes will be graded accordingly after Miss Val has had time to assess the kids. Fees will be based on numbers per class. Please contact me to express your interest in this class and for availability. For those of you who may be concerned that this will clash with the musical in terms 3 and 4, please be advised that the rehearsal days for musicals may be changing altogether. I will be in touch with you regarding class times.
SUPPORT OUR TEACHERS: Jenn Monk, one of our KPG drama coaches is starring in her next play, COSI. She plays Ruth, a beautiful lady that has a compulsive personality disorder. She would love to see you there. For bookings or info regarding dates and times please call 8839 3399 or visit www.riversideparramatta.com.au
JULY SCHOOL HOLIDAY WORKSHOPS: Wow - if repeat business is a compliment, then we are flattered! We are so pleased to see so many familiar faces coming back for KPG camps! There are still some places available so visit www.kickperformancegroup.com.au for the selection or call Nicky on 9966 5013. You can book online or call the office.
COMPANY PINK EISTEDDFOD: The St George Eisteddfod at Kogarah will take place on 22 August, 2009. The performance will be at approximately 1.30pm at Kogarah School of Arts, Cnr Bowns & Queens St, Kogarah. Please ensure that you have this date in your diary well in advance! Any questions please speak to Natalie at Drama Company.
AST: Entries are now open for The Australian Screen Tests! We are very excited about the number and caliber of casting directors from top Los Angeles studios who will be joining us this year. We will post a list of confirmed judges soon on the AST website. Please visit www.australianscreentests.com.au for more information!
ACTING FOR SCREEN TOUR TO LA: We have recently managed to renegotiate with service and transport providers for this tour, offering you a saving of approximately $1000. Yay! Auditions for this tour are being held at Kari Harris casting on 1 and 2 August. For all the info, please visit www.performingartstours.com.au - please check this site regularly as changes beyond our control do occur, but for now, the dates are set!
WILLOUGHBY STREET FAIR 2009: This awesome event takes place this year on 12 September. Lizz will be getting a troupe together for this day to perform and take part in the parade. We will keep you informed as to who will be involved - but due to safety reasons, this will be open mainly to older kids. Watch the newsletter for updates!
CONCERT DATES: We are very close to being able to give you all the dates for the balance of the year. This would be for Joseph, Vocal night and Drama night! Watch this space!
TERM 3 RE-ENROLMENT: Just a reminder that your children will automatically be enrolled in their current class for term 3 unless you advise us otherwise. Term 3 fees would need to be paid on or before the first day of term. Please feel free to call us before or during the break and we’ll gladly take payment over the phone. 9966 5013.
TERM DATES: Please be reminded that term 2 closes Friday 10 July and term 3 commences Monday 27 July. So NO MORE Saturday classes after tomorrow! You may want to start paying term 3 fees before the first day of class as you know how chaotic that can be. Feel free to call us on 9966 5013 and we’ll gladly take the payments over the phone.
If there is anything else you would like to discuss – you know where to find me. Nicky
Filed Under On Newsletters Jun 26 2009
Dear KPG Member, I am thrilled to announce that opening night of The Big Bad Musical was a hit! Even with the flu, lost voices and sore throats – they pulled it off! We are so proud of the cast and are looking forward to two more amazing performances at The Zenith Theatre. We still have some tickets available for tonight and for Saturday night so feel free to just arrive and purchase tickets at the door! Just a reminder that each night has a different ending so if you think you have seen the show… there’s more to come! TRINITY EXAM: Congrats to the cast of The Big Bad Musical who recently passed the Trinity Guildhall musical theatre exam with flying colours. More accurately, they ‘passed with merit’ with a score of 75! Well done! RAD BALLET AT KPG: Under the guidance of Val Lloyd, we will be running RAD ballet classes for those kids who would like to continue to progress with their RAD exams. Your current ballet classes will remain – but the Monday afternoon will now be in place to get the RAD work within KPG stabilized. (RAD ballet kids need to do more than one ballet class per week). Classes will be graded accordingly after Miss Val has had time to assess the kids. Fees will be based on numbers per class. Please contact me to express your interest in this class and for availability. For those of you who may be concerned that this will clash with the musical in terms 3 and 4, please be advised that the rehearsal days for musicals may be changing altogether. IMPROV CAMP: Guess who is coming to Improvcamp as our VIP? Lisa Beach, top LA casting director! We can’t stress highly enough how important it is for AIPA kids to be seen by Lisa who is casting 2 new feature films in the next 3 months. Her work includes casting for ‘Walk The Line’’ ‘Wedding Crashers’, ‘3:10 to Yuma’ just to mention a few. Visit http://www.performingartstours.com.au/ShowPage/112.html for all the enrolment details. Limited spaces apply so get moving! TERM DATES: Please be reminded that term 2 closes Friday 10 July and term 3 commences Monday 27 July. OFFICES IN LA: We now have offices in LA and with that, our Director Marg is working the oddest hours so that she can work US time as well as Aussie time too. So please be kind enough to make an appointment if you would like to chat to her. She is more than happy to meet with you or your kids – but if her door is closed due to conference calls or deadlines etc, rather than just waiting outside her door in the hopes that she’ll soon be free, please just see the office and we’ll make a time for you to see her. SINGER/SONGWRITER CAMP IS HAPPENING! Only 15 places left! For all the goss and to enroll, please visit http://www.performingartstours.com.au/ShowPage/38.html - see you at Point Wolstoncroft 19th - 24th July, 2009. Open to all high school students! TERM 3 RE-ENROLMENT: Just a reminder that your children will automatically be enrolled in their current class for term 3 unless you advise us otherwise. Term 3 fees would need to be paid on or before the first day of term. Please feel free to call us before or during the break and we’ll gladly take payment over the phone. 9966 5013. JOSEPH AND THE AMAZING TECHNICOLORED DREAMCOAT: Term 3 sees the start of preparations for this exciting musical which we will perform in term 4. If you are after lead roles and the special performing arts workshop (PAW) for this production, please be advised that you need to enroll for this in the same way that you enroll for all other KPG classes. These classes run weekly as they did for big The Bad Musical and you will need to commit to these classes in order to make it work! Classes will now run on Saturday mornings and not Mondays. Please note that this production will ultimately involve the entire school and is being run instead of a year-end concert. JULY SCHOOL HOLIDAY WORKSHOPS: Wow - if repeat business is a compliment, then we are flattered! We are so pleased to see so many familiar faces coming back for KPG camps! There are still some places available so visit www.kickperformancegroup.com.au for the selection or call Nicky on 9966 5013. You can book online or call the office. AST: Entries are now open for The Australian Screen Tests! We are very excited about the number and caliber of casting directors from top Los Angeles studios who will be joining us this year. We will post a list of confirmed judges soon on the AST website. Please visit www.australianscreentests.com.au for more information! ACTING FOR SCREEN TOUR TO LA: We have recently managed to renegotiate with service and transport providers for this tour, offering you a saving of approximately $1000. Yay! Auditions for this tour are being held at Kari Harris casting on 1 and 2 August. For all the info, please visit www.performingartstours.com.au - please check this site regularly as changes beyond our control do occur, but for now, the dates are set! WILLOUGHBY STREET FAIR 2009: This awesome event takes place this year on 12 September. Lizz will be getting a troupe together for this day to perform and take part in the parade. We will keep you informed as to who will be involved - but due to safety reasons, this will be open mainly to older kids. Watch the newsletter for updates! KPG SUCCESS STORIES: Sophie Nash-Smith, from the Saturday’s KICKstarters Kindy class, made her television debut recently, with a segment on Better Homes & Gardens. She featured in a segment about a “princess in need of a larger mirror”. Well done Sophie!! Also, well done to Annie Martin who recently got a part in the ABC TV Series “My Place” which is based on the children’s picture book by Nadia Wheatley. Angus Russo was in a short film called “Miracle Fish” which has been shown around the world at Film Festivals. The film was recently part of the Sydney Film Festival and won the Best Action Short Film. He is currently filming for the ABC TV series “My Place” playing a boy in the 1958 show. We are very proud of you all! Please keep us updated as to your progress. Mum, it’s up to you to send this information to us at kpg@aipa.com.au! CONCERT DATES: By the close of term 2, we will be able to advise to as the FINAL dates for Joseph, Vocal night and Drama night. We are struggling to lock in the right theatres on the dates that suit our directors for each show so please note that I will inform you of these dates as soon as I can. I appreciate your patience and we’re working on it.Don’t forget that yoga classes are just about to start on KPG premises, so get your bookings in soon! Relieve stress, have a great workout and experience an hour of bliss while your kids are having their own fun at KPG! Classes are available for all ages from 12 years and up, so now is a great time to give yoga a try or continue your current practice! Starting from 7th July at KPG studios Tuesdays to Thursdays weekly. For more details, class times and bookings, please see www.yogaandwellbeing.com.au, call Tracy on 0410 538844 or pick up a flyer at the KPG reception. Can’t make any classes? Tracy is also available for private, corporate or sporting team bookings, please call for details.That’s all for now – just one more week of classes until we close for term two, so please ensure your enrolments are in place for term 3. We mourn the loss of two legendary icons in the entertainment industry today – Michael Jackson and Farrah Fawcett. Have a lovely weekend at see you at The Zenith!
Nicky J
Filed Under On Newsletters Jun 19 2009
Dear KPG Member, School holidays are just around the corner and with just 3 weeks left of term at KPG, I say let’s give it our best! BIG BAD MUSICAL IS FINALLY HERE! We invite you to come along and enjoy the show at The Zenith Theatre at 7pm on Thursday 25 June, Friday 26 June and Saturday 27 June. The kids have put in a lot of work and you’re sure to enjoy this production of The Big Bad Musical! Tickets are $16.50 and may be purchased at the KPG Office or by calling 9966 5013. You will also be able to purchase tickets at The Zenith Theatre on the night of the performance. This is an excellent opportunity for younger children to get excited about performing in future shows. (Don’t worry, in our show The Big Bad Wolf isn’t scary!) We hope to see you there! (Look out for our editorial in the North Shore Times this week on page 15). VOULUNTEERS FOR BIG BAD MUSICAL! We are looking for a couple of parents with large vehicles to help us transport 4 black boxes, 2 benches and the costumes on the day of the tech rehearsal (Wed 24 June). We are planning to do this around 3pm. So if you have a truck or SUV and can help us out, please call Erika on 9966 5013. TERM DATES: Please be reminded that term 2 closes Friday 10 July and term 3 commences Monday 27 July. TERM 3 RE-ENROLMENT: Just a reminder that your children will automatically be enrolled in their current class for term 3 unless you advise us otherwise. Term 3 fees would need to be paid on or before the first day of term. Please feel free to call us before or during the break and we’ll gladly take payment over the phone. 9966 5013. JOSEPH AND THE AMAZING TECHNICOLORED DREAMCOAT: Term 3 sees the start of preparations for this exciting musical which we will perform in term 4. If you are after lead roles and special performing arts workshops (PAW) for this production, please be advised that you need to enroll for this in the same way that you enroll for all other KPG classes. These classes run on Mondays as they did for big The Bad Musical and you will need to commit to these classes in order to make it work! Please note that this production will ultimately involve the entire school and is being run instead of a year-end concert. JULY SCHOOL HOLIDAY WORKSHOPS: Visit www.kickperformancegroup.com.au for our general holiday workshops. You can enroll online or call Nicky on 9966 5013. KPG SUCCESS STORIES: Harry Gray filmed his first TV commercial for the NRL Sunday/Daily Telegraph footy cards. Harry had a lead role in the commercial and got to film with five rugby league players. Go Harry! Sophie Elliot recently won a role in a show in Series 3 of a true life crime documentary series called ‘Deadly Women’ which was made for an American TV Company. Sophie played the role of Rebecca Montgomery, the daughter of real life murderer Lisa Montgomery. Well done Sophie! Autographs please! AST: Entries are now open for The Australian Screen Tests! We are very excited about the number and caliber of casting directors from top Los Angeles studios who will be joining us this year. We will post a list of confirmed judges soon on the AST website. Please visit www.australianscreentests.com.au for more information! PERFORMING ARTS TOURS: If touring is your thing, please keep an eye on www.performingartstours.com.au for any information or changes to any events you may have auditioned for. As we work around the clock to constantly improve and revise the tours, info is being added to this site almost daily. so make it part of your daily routine to check on things! SINGER/SONGWRITER CAMP IS HAPPENING! For all the goss and to enroll, please visit http://www.performingartstours.com.au/ShowPage/38.html - see you at Point Wolstoncroft 19th - 24th July, 2009. Open to all high school students! Enrolments close soon - so hurry! IMPROV CAMP: The latest and greatest craze “Improvcamp” is now in Australia for the first time and you CANNOT afford to miss out! Happening these holidays at Point Wolstoncroft from 19th-24th July. Visit http://www.performingartstours.com.au/ShowPage/112.html for all the enrolment details. Limited spaces apply so get moving! WILLOUGHBY STREET FAIR 2009: This awesome event takes place this year on 12 September. Lizz will be getting a troupe together for this day to perform and take part in the parade. We will keep you informed as to who will be involved - but due to safety reasons, this will be open mainly to older kids. Watch the newsletter for updates! CELEBRITY THEATREPORTS: Impro Australia presents CELEBRITY THEATRESPORTS® 9 Celebrities. 9 Comic improvisers. 1 Massive night of laughs. Cale Bain & Jon Williams (KPG’s improvisation tutors) are producing this year’s Celebrity Theatresports to help raise money for CanTeen. Celebrity Theatresports is on Saturday 15th August at the Enmore Theatre in Newtown (8pm) and are offering special ticket deals. Book a Family ticket of 2 adults + 2 juniors (2-16 years) for just $130. Save $36!!! See celebrities forced to improvise live comedy scenes from your suggestions. And help raise money for CanTeen; the Australian organisation for young people living with cancer. Like Seven’s Thank God You’re Here and the Comedy Channel’s Whose Line Is It Anyway? this is hilarious, fast-paced comedy with no scripts and no safety net. Previous celebrity guests include Kirk Pengilly (INXS), Layne Beachley, Roy & HG, The Umbilical Brothers, Kerry O’Brien, Georgie Parker, Andrew Denton, Liz Ellis, Adam Hills, Tara Moss, Wil Anderson, Ada Nicodemou, Andrew O’Keefe, Monica Trapaga and Adam Spencer. See the panic, smell the fear, laugh ’til it hurts. ONE NIGHT ONLY! Bookings through Ticketek. http://premier.ticketek.com.au/shows/show.aspx?sh=CELEBRIT09&searchId=81d1eb55-4652-4f23-9516-81e3d5e04e9c CONCERT DATES: By the close of term 2, we will be able to advise to as the FINAL dates for Joseph, Vocal night and Drama night. We are struggling to lock in the right theatres on the dates that suit our directors for each show so please note that I will inform you of these dates as soon as I can. I appreciate your patience and we’re working on it. There’s much excitement at the moment with the musical finally opening on June 25th at the Zenith and I really hope to see you all there! We’ve kept ticket prices right down so jump on board and come and support your fellow KPG performers. Nicky J
Filed Under On Newsletters Jun 12 2009
Dear KPG Member, Is it freezing or is it freezing? I hope you are all keeping warm and have dodged the flu!
o THE BIG BAD MUSICAL: We have lots to say about his exciting production so please take note: CAST PARTYThere will be a cast/wrap party on Sunday 28 June at KICK from 5:00-7:00pm. The cast will get to watch the archive copy of the show while munching on pizza kindly provided by Domino’s Pizza in WIlloughby. The party is for the cast only and will be fully supervised by KPG staff. TRINITY THEATRE EXAMAn examiner from Trinity Guildhall in London will watch the cast perform the Big Bad Musical at KICK on Monday 15 June during rehearsal. The exam will start at 5pm so if the cast could arrive by 4pm to allow time for getting into costume, that would be great. (The guest performers do not take part in the exam). EXTRA REHEARSALThere will be an extra rehearsal on Sunday 14 June at KICK 1-5pm. We will take cast photos so please wear your cast t-shirts. TICKET PICK UPTickets may be picked up from the KICK Office Monday 15 June - Friday 19 June or at The Zenith Theatre on the night of the performance. PROPSWe are still looking for a judge’s gavel. If anyone has one we can borrow for the show, please contact Erika on 9966 5013.
KPG CLASS SHOWCASE: The class is up for free trial this week is MOVE & GROOVE 10AM FRIDAYS! This class is a great all-round Performing Arts experience, specifically designed to encourage vocal development, cognitive and literacy skills, creativity, expression and individuality. Children participate in rhythm and routine building, singing, storytelling, drama improvisations, performance poetry, dance warm-ups and co-ordination games. We support and explore the pre-school syllabus by reinforcing colours, numbers, opposites, rhyming words and days of the week in song and dance format. Ideal for energetic and imaginative three and four year olds who love to express themselves. For preschoolers going to school 2010/2011. Call Nicky to arrange on 9966 5013. TERM DATES: Please be reminded that term 2 closes Friday 10 July and term 3 commences Monday 27 July. SCHOOL HOLIDAY WORKSHOPS: Visit www.kickperformancegroup.com.au for our general holiday workshops or to book for the latest and greatest craze “Improvcamp” at Point Wolstoncroft from 19th-24th July http://www.performingartstours.com.au/ShowPage/112.html
AST: Entries are now open for The Australian Screen Tests! We are very excited about the number and caliber of casting directors from top Los Angeles studios who will be joining us this year. We will post a list of confirmed judges next week on the AST website. Please visit www.australianscreentests.com.au for more information!
YOGA: Yoga classes are now starting on the KPG premises! Yoga is one of the best things you can do for your body – it works your internal organs and systems, relieves stress and gives the body a great overall tone and workout. Your teacher, Tracy Butler, is a Level 2 qualified teacher, who loves to teach yoga to all levels and all ages from 12 years and up, so now is a great time to give yoga a try or continue your current practice! Classes will be held from 7th July at KPG studios Tuesdays to Thursdays weekly. Do you have kids attending classes Tuesday evenings or Wednesday/Thursday mornings? Come to yoga at the same time - why should your kids have all the fun? For more details, class times and bookings, please see www.yogaandwellbeing.com.au, call Tracy on 0410 538844 or pick up a flyer at the KPG reception.
We wish Ben Ward a fabulous night tonight as he presents his ‘One Night In Paris’ preview at 8pm at 451 Willoughby Road, Willoughby. We are certain it will be a feast for the ears!
Take care and have a lovely weekend!
Nicky J
Filed Under On Newsletters Jun 12 2009
Dear KPG Member, How wonderful it has been for the children to have their grandparents in studio this week! We hope that all the grandparents had a good time and please remind them to put the next “KPG Grandparents Week” in their diary, being 25 – 29 August. Look out for this weeks’ free trial class being offered and call me to book if you’re interested! o UPDATE FROM MARG: As many of you know, Marg, AIPA’s director has been in North America working for the last five and a half weeks. Marg is casting a US feature film and will therefore be back and forth to LA a few more times in the near future. On her last trip, she also negotiated some great rates with accommodation and transport providers in the US, which means that the US based tours advertised will become cheaper, which is great news for everyone. She has also been able to lock in a few well known industry professionals to work with students in addition to the workshop programmes. Marg will write an update for us all in the next week, so look out for that and for the new tour details on the website next week!
o HUMAN SWINE INFLUENZA: We have been advised by NSW Health that any school child or staff member returning from the ‘greater metropolitan Melbourne’ area is required to stay away from school for seven days after their return to NSW. If this applies to you please contact us on your return from Melbourne to discuss the appropriate procedures required for a return to KPG. We will continue to update you of adjustments to the recommendations as they are made.
o KPG CLASS SHOWCASE: The class is up for free trial this week is HIGH SCHOOL BALLET! Lizz is taking an add-on Ballet technique class for high school kids on Wednesdays from 7.30 – 8.00pm. This class will focus on ballet technique and drills. Focus will be mainly on barre work and technical exercises. A great class for those who need ballet revision, or for those who would benefit from ballet technique to help in jazz dance. Call Nicky to arrange on 9966 5013. o SUCCESS STORIES: We often hear via the grapevine that our KPG kids land great jobs in the industry. We would love to hear about these achievements and would love to highlight them in our ‘Success Stories’ on our website. Please email this info to kpg@aipa.com.au o LICE: As mentioned in a letter that went out this week, we have had a student with head lice. A reminder to the kids is that head lice cannot fly, hop or jump. They spread from person to person by head to head contact. If you find lice on your children, please exclude your child from class until the appropriate treatment has been commenced. o SCHOOL HOLIDAY WORKSHOPS: Camps are already booking up so remember to get your booking forms in ASAP! Camps will run from 13 - 17 July and from 20 - 24 July for all age groups. Call Nicky to book on 9966 5013 or visit www.kickperformancegroup.com.au … or to book for the latest and greatest craze “Improvcamp” at Point Wolstoncroft from 19th-24th July: http://www.performingartstours.com.au/ShowPage/112.html
o AST: Entries are now open for The Australian Screen Tests! We are very excited about the number and caliber of casting directors from top Los Angeles studios who will be joining us this year. We will post a list of confirmed judges next week on the AST website. Please visit www.australianscreentests.com.au for more information!
o THE BIG BAD MUSICAL: Tickets for The Big Bad Musical are currently on sale. There are tickets available for 7:00pm Thursday 25 June, 7:00pm Friday 26 June and 7:00pm Saturday 27 June. Tickets are $16.50 each or $44.00 for the 3-Night Deal. Tickets may be picked up at the KPG Office Monday 15 June - Friday 19 June or at The Zenith Theatre on the night of the performance. If you are a parent of a student who might like to get involved in future KICK productions, such as Joseph and the Technicoloured Dreamcoat in November, this is an excellent opportunity to show your child what he or she could be a part of! Come along and support our young performers!
I wish you all a good week and hope to see you all booking tickets to support our kids in the musical! FYI, Maree is away in Vietnam (lucky her) and will return to the office on Saturday 13 June. Please feel free to call me if there is anything else I can assist you with. Nicky J
Filed Under On Newsletters May 29 2009
Dear KPG Member, Bbbbbrrrrr! I think you’ll all agree that winter is finally here! We’re sorry that so many of you have been down with the flu and hope to see you back in class next week! Each week, I will ’showcase’ a class or two in the newsletter. I am doing this as some parents have said they do not have time to go through our timetable and are not aware of all that is available to their kids and their age group. So look out for this and feel free to call me for more information. Whichever class is ’showcased’, a free trial class will be offered for the week following the newsletter. o GRANDPARENTS WEEK IS HERE: 1 - 6 June is time to bring Gran and Gramps to watch you in class. They are welcome for the full session if they so wish. Remember also that these classes do not include the musical or drama company classes, with the exception of Improv. o SCHOOL HOLIDAY WORKSHOPS: Book early by visiting www.kickperformancegroup.com.au to avoid disappointment. We now also have the forms in hard copy at the office so feel free to grab one on your way out. Camps will run from 13 - 17 July and from 20 - 24 July. (Some more camps may still be added for older kids - so keep a look out). The most exciting addition to our camps is the new Improvcamp at Point Wolstoncroft from 19th-24th July, 2009. Visit http://www.performingartstours.com.au/ShowPage/112.html for all the info… You DON’T want to miss this one! The phone is already ringing off the hook so be informed and be on time with your bookings. o KPG CLASS SHOWCASE: Classes to focus on this week are:316 - Onstage, Musical Theatre with Ben Ward. This class takes place on a Tuesday from 5-6pm. This class is perfect for budding performers who love to sing and students are taught age-appropriate material from modern and traditional musicals which they polish to performance standard. This class is open to kids in years 3 - 6. FREE trial class now available - call Nicky to arrange on 9966 5013.322 - Triple Threat. This class takes place on Tuesdays from 4 - 7 pm. “Triple Threat” is an industry term meaning “all-rounder”. This programme consists of three one-hour classes in Drama, Dance and Singing. Classes are graded to ensure that this high-energy course will be fun but challenging for everyone and is open to kids in years 3 - 6. FREE trial class now available - call Nicky to arrange on 9966 5013. o LOST PROPERTY: The lost property basket (which now lives at the top of the stairs) is getting too full and whatever is not claimed by Saturday 6 June, will be given to charity. There are school uniforms, school shoes, dance shoes etc. So please let us know if you would like to have a look in there or send your kids to look before class. o AST: Registration will open shortly for The Australian Screen Tests. AST Workshops will run Monday 4 January - Thursday 7 January 2010. The screen tests will run Friday 8 January - Sunday 10 January 2010. AST will again be held at the University of New South Wales in Kensington. There are new sections for 2010 and a new charity - The Heath Ledger Scholarship. Please visit www.australianscreentests.com.au for updated information. You may call Erika with any questions. 9966 4030. o TICKET BOOKINGS: Big Bad Musical Tickets are now on sale and are moving fast. You can pick up an order form from Nicky or Maree at the KPG Office or print it off the KPG website. www.kickperformancegroup.com.au - You can also call Erika on 9966 5013 and she’ll be happy to take your order over the phone. Performances are 7:00pm on Thursday 25 June, Friday 26 June, and Saturday 27 June 2009 at the Zenith Theatre. Even if your kids are not in this production, it’s a great introduction to theatre for the little ones as the show is only one hour long. (And the cast would love some moral support from their fellow KPG-ers). o GUEST PERFORMERS: Rehearsals are now underway for the little guest performers in the Big Bad Musical. Please ensure that you are aware of ALL rehearsal dates and times as we have lots to do to get you ready for the big night! o FAST & FRESH: Hats off to Drama Company coach Natalie Richards who took our kids to Fast + Fresh. This is what Nat had to say: “I was so impressed at how the kids improved from the tech rehearsal, then to the dress rehearsal and then by the time they did the actual performance they were even better! I feel that the kids learnt a lot being in a professional environment, working with a professional stage manager as well as being under professional lighting. All 3 of our plays got lots of laughs and great audience reaction. A huge thanks to Monica Haberecht and Adam Horner for assisting on the day and thank you to parents for getting involved and supporting your kids to get there! All in all, the kids really benefitted by seeing the older HSC drama plays and I am confident that by the time our kids are at that age and stage, they’ll be the winners. I am very proud of you all”. (Photos to follow soon). o PERFORMING ARTS TOURS: Visit www.performingartstours.com.au for all audition and touring info or you can email tours@aipa.com.au or call 9966 4473 and leave a message. o ONE NIGHT IN PARIS: Our very own Ben Ward is presenting a dazzling preview of his Paris 2009 Tour on Friday 12 June @ 8pm. Tickets are $20.00 at the door at Theme & Piano Variations Piano Showroom, 451 Willoughby Road. Please email Ben for more information on benjaminpward@gmail.com o TINY TOTS BALLET SHOES: We have some really small sizes of pink ballet shoes if you are looking to purchase a second hand pair. They are all in good condition and are priced at $25 per pair. o KICK GOSPEL CHOIR: This runs every Monday from 7.30pm and is free of charge for this term. We welcome singers aged 15 and up who want to lose themselves in a magical evening of song and lyrics. If you require further information you can email Ben on benjaminpward@gmail.com - alternatively, just turn up and you’ll be welcome! Well, that’s it for this week I guess! Lots to come in the weeks ahead so keep your eye on the ball! Keep up the good work and remember - “Nothing great was ever achieved without enthusiasm.” (R W Emerson)
Nicky J
Filed Under On Newsletters May 29 2009
Dear KPG Member, Hi Gang! Lots of news on the go, so please have a good read and jot down those important dates! ‘New’ news. o SCHOOL HOLIDAY WORKSHOPS: At last the July Winter School Holiday Camps are now on the website. Book early on www.kickperformancegroup.com.au to avoid disappointment. Camps will run from 13 - 17 July and from 20 - 24 July. (Some more camps may still be added for older kids - so keep a look out). The most exciting addition to our camps is the new Improvcamp at Point Wolstoncroft 19th-24th July, 2009. See poster attached or visit http://www.performingartstours.com.au/ShowPage/112.html for all the info… You DON”T want to miss this one! o AST: Registration will open shortly for The Australian Screen Tests. AST Workshops will run Monday 4 January - Thursday 7 January 2010. The screen tests will run Friday 8 January - Sunday 10 January 2010. AST will again be held at the University of New South Wales in Kensington. There are new sections for 2010 and a new charity - The Heath Ledger Scholarship. Please visit www.australianscreentests.com.au for updated information. You may call Erika with any questions. 9966 4030. o NEWS FROM MARG RE THE TOUR IN LA: Congrats to Sarah Taylor who got down to final two in the casting for Runaways. Sam Cotton from APAW is on hold for a lead in a new film. We had six boys recalled for the remake of Friday the 13th directed by Michael Bay. Louis Hunter has offers of representation from William Morris, Greene & Associates, Gersh, ICM, and UTA. The actors and the casting directors have RAVED about the programme! So watch this space! These are exciting times! o TICKET BOOKINGS: Big Bad Musical Tickets are now on sale. You can pick up an order form from the KPG Office or print it off the KPG website. www.kickperformancegroup.com.au . You can also call Erika on 9966 5013 and she’ll be happy to take your order over the phone. Performances are 7:00pm on Thursday 25 June, Friday 26 June, and Saturday 27 June 2009. o GUEST PERFORMERS: If you have a 3-7 year old interested in being a guest performer in the Big Bad Musical, please contact the office. Guest Performers dance in the opening number of the show. There are four 30 minute rehearsals starting next week. You can choose to attend either Tuesday rehearsals 10:30 - 11:00am or Friday rehearsals 3:30 - 4:00pm. The Guest Performers can perform in one, two or all three shows - it’s up to you! Show fee is $80. Guest Performers will get a cast t-shirt, a certificate and their names in the programme. o FAST & FRESH: Is finally here! Our KPG Company kids (blue, red and yellow groups) will be performing in the national short play competition FAST & FRESH on Monday 25 May 2009 at Parramatta Riverside Theatre, 7.30pm. We wish you all the best of luck and hope you represent us well! Just have fun! Please do your best to go along and support the team! To book tickets, visit https://boxoffice.riversideparramatta.com.au/ShowListVenues.aspx o OPEN CLASS WEEK: What a week! The children have loved having you go into class with them this week and we hope you had as much fun as they did! Don’t forget grandparents week coming up 1 - 6 June. Remember also that open classes do not include the musical or drama company classes. o ONE NIGHT IN PARIS: Our very own Ben Ward is presenting a dazzling preview of his Paris 2009 Tour on Friday 12 June @ 8pm. Tickets are $20.00 at the door at Theme & Piano Variations Piano Showroom, 451 Willoughby Road. Please email Ben for more information on benjaminpward@gmail.com o TINY TOTS BALLET SHOES: We have some really small sizes of pink ballet shoes if you are looking to purchase a second hand pair. They are all in good condition and are priced at $25 per pair. ‘Old but still important’ news. o KICK GOSPEL CHOIR: This runs every Monday from 7.30pm and is free of charge for this term. We welcome singers aged 15 and up who want to lose themselves in a magical evening of song and lyrics. If you require further information you can email Ben on benjaminpward@gmail.com - alternatively, just turn up and you’ll be welcome! o PERFORMING ARTS TOURS: Visit www.performingartstours.com.au for all audition and touring info or you can email tours@aipa.com.au or call 9966 4473 and leave a message. Keep at it! See you soon, Nicky J
Filed Under On Newsletters May 15 2009
Dear KPG Member, I hope you are all well and have managed to dodge the flu! Regarding my weekly newsletter, one genius mum suggested that I mark the ‘new news’ apart from the ‘old but still important news’ so that you don’t have to re-read the same stuff week after week! So I am giving it a try… it should work well for those of you who keep a strict diary! Here we go… ‘New’ news… · JAZZ HIP HOP: Class 206 is now split into 2 groups so for those of who found the class a little crowded – you’ll now find we have an average of 10 per class, and we are streaming the class too in the way of age and skill. Michelle and Lizz take these classes. Feel free to book your child in for a trial class. · GARBAGE BINS: We are aware that some KPG members that attend on a Saturday afternoon are dumping their empty lunch wrappers and cartons in the bin area in the parking lot, for example noodle cartons etc. We have to disinfect the area on a weekly basis as there are those who are too lazy to walk to a bin and use it! We are appealing to all of you to please use the bins provided and not just to toss your lunch over the stairs. Please let me know if you see anyone doing this, as it affects the general health and well being of our children. · TWINKLE TOES: Congratulations to our tiny tots for getting their ballet gear and hair right! We applaud you! Please just remember only REAL ballet shoes are acceptable and PLEASE take your children to the children before class as if just one child needs to go during class then ALL the kids decide to go and the teacher spends the full lesson undressing and dressing the kids! · OPEN CLASS WEEK IS HERE: Parents… you finally get to go into class with your kids this week 18 – 23 May. Please note open classes DO NOT include the Big Bad Musical or Drama Company! (Only the Improv class called ’On The Spot’ – which is part of Company, may be attended). You may even be asked to participate in the class so be ready. Just a reminder that this is not for grandparents – they have their special week from 1 – 6 June. · THE PRODUCERS (Drama): If you’re in Years 3 – 6, be sure not to miss this class with Gina on Thursdays at 5pm. It is designed for students who creative, energetic and focused. Visit the website for further details on class 309. Feel free to book your child in for a trial class. ‘Old but still important’ news… · GUEST PERFORMERS IN ‘THE BIG BAD MUSICAL’: Each year, we invite our younger students (3-5 years) to be guest performers in the musical. This involves performing in one musical number in the show. It’s a fun way to start performing in front of an audience at a young age! There will be four weekly half-hour rehearsals starting the week of May 25 (dates/times TBA), a dress rehearsal on Mon 22 June 4:30-6:30pm at KICK, and a tech rehearsal on Wed 24 June 6:00-7:30pm at The Zenith Theatre in Chatswood. Guest performers have the option of participating in one, two or all three of the shows at 7pm on Thu 25 June, Fri 26 June and Sat 27 June. We will send out rehearsal dates as soon as they are set. The cost to participate is $75. This includes a cast t-shirt, rehearsal fees and costume hire. Please let Erika know if you are interested in enrolling your child for this opportunity on erika.slozak@aipa.com.au or call her on 9966 5013. (Erika has been on a break and will be back in the office soon to answer all your queries). · FAST & FRESH: Our KPG Company kids (blue, red and yellow groups) will be performing in the national short play competition FAST & FRESH on Monday 25 May 2009 at Parramatta Riverside Theatre, 7.30pm. To book tickets, visit https://boxoffice.riversideparramatta.com.au/ShowListVenues.aspx · KICK GOSPEL CHOIR: This runs every Monday from 7.30pm and is free of charge for this term. We welcome singers aged 15 and up who want to lose themselves in a magical evening of song and lyrics. If you require further information you can email Ben on benjaminpward@gmail.com – alternatively, just turn up and you’ll be welcome! · PERFORMING ARTS TOURS: Visit www.performingartstours.com.au for all audition and touring info or you can email tours@aipa.com.au or call 9966 4473 and leave a message. · SCHOOL HOLIDAY WORKSHOPS: July school holiday camps will run from 13 - 17 July and from 20 - 24 July. Watch the website for the new workshops and feel free to email me with requests for what you would like to see more of on kpg@aipa.com.au - we hope to have more available for older kids too this time! The new workshops will be loaded in the next 5 days!!! Whatever goes onto the website – please be advised that even more high school workshops will be added! Have a great week and remember… Aim for the top. There is plenty of room there! See you soon,
Nicky J
Filed Under On Newsletters May 14 2009
Dear KPG Member, I hope you are all settled back into school after a lovely break and that your classes at KPG are well under way! Welcome to all new students that have come on board in term 2. Please remember I have an open door policy and am happy to discuss any matters that may arise. I am in the office Monday - Friday from 8.30am - 4pm and some Saturdays until 2pm. Alternatively, please feel free to email me your concerns on kpg@aipa.com.au - Here we go… · FESTIVAL ON THE GREEN: Wow, what a fantastic day we had! The kids performed beautifully and we were extremely proud of them. Thanks so much to the staff and teachers that came along to support and to help at our stall. We hope to see even more of you there next time! · GUEST PERFORMERS IN ‘THE BIG BAD MUSICAL’: Each year, we invite our younger students (3-5 years) to be guest performers in the musical. This involves performing in one musical number in the show. It’s a fun way to start performing in front of an audience at a young age! There will be four weekly half-hour rehearsals starting the week of May 25 (dates/times TBA), a dress rehearsal on Mon 22 June 4:30-6:30pm at KICK, and a tech rehearsal on Wed 24 June 6:00-7:30pm at The Zenith Theatre in Chatswood. Guest performers have the option of participating in one, two or all three of the shows at 7pm on Thu 25 June, Fri 26 June and Sat 27 June. We will send out rehearsal dates as soon as they are set. The cost to participate is $75. This includes a cast t-shirt, rehearsal fees and costume hire. Please let Erika know if you are interested in enrolling your child for this opportunity on erika.slozak@aipa.com.au or call her on 9966 5013. · KPG DRAMA PERFORMANCE: The annual drama performance has been postponed and will no longer take place on 31 May 2009. New dates TBA. Marg wants to be involved in directing the show but due to a huge US contract, she won’t be back in good time. It’s not a decision we take lightly but the benefits for our students from 3 year olds to the adults will far outweigh the postponement. Thank you for your understanding! · FAST & FRESH: Our KPG Company kids (blue, red and yellow groups) will be performing in the national short play competition FAST & FRESH on Monday 25 May 2009 at Parramatta Riverside Theatre, 7.30pm. To book tickets, visit https://boxoffice.riversideparramatta.com.au/ShowListVenues.aspx · KPG HEROES: Mark Henderson (Sam’s dad) once again visited our school to balance the PA system in Studio 1. We are very grateful! Mark Scott (Leigh’s dad) just rebuilt our barbeque making it safe and easy to use - and done with such kindness. Thanks Mark! Also a huge thank you to the ‘The Big Bad Musical’ parents for ‘taxiing’ their kids to rehearsal at KICK and then to the St Ives Festival on the Green for their performance. We hope you enjoyed the final performance as much as we did! · KICK GOSPEL CHOIR: If you love jazzy gospel music, love to sing and love to have fun, then this choir is a great opportunity for you! Lead by Ben Ward, the choir will meet in Studio 5 at KICK from 7.30 through to 9.30pm every Monday (starting 11th May). We’re going to cover all of the gospel greats, some fantastic Motown, as well as some jazz and pop. The purpose of the choir is to have fun and express yourself through music, with possibilities coming up for public performance later in the year. The choir is being run as a trial program at KICK for term 2, and will continue past then as numbers pick up. For this term there is no cost associated to be in the class except covering the small cost of your music. The age group for this choir is generally 16 -99! Some exceptions will be made depending on maturity and skill. Feel free to just arrive this Monday and we’ll see what kind of response we get. · TWINKLE TOES: Could our littlest ballerinas please remember to put their hair in a bun and wear a pink headband if possible. Students will be rewarded (with a sticker) for correct dress code as we are trying very gently to get them to understand that ballet requires some discipline. If we start with their appearance we feel the rest will follow more easily. A special request from your teacher to please use the toilet BEFORE class as the kids are missing out on a fair amount of teaching time every time a child needs to go. Just the undressing and dressing of leotards and tights takes ages. · CLASSICAL BALLET: Felicity has asked that we remind all classical students that their hair should be in a bun for class. RAD classes from grade one and up do not require a skirt for class, so parents please don’t buy brand new skirts. Also we are struggling with late comers to class and we ask that you please make an effort to be on time. · KPG DANCERS: Could all our jazz, tap, funk and modern girls of all ages please also wear their hair completely tied up and out of their face - a clip that just holds the front strands of hair is not sufficient. · THE MOD SQUAD: Due to popular demand, we are now introducing an open Modern Dance class on Thursdays from 5 - 6pm which will focus on lyrical expressive songs and movement. A perfect class for those who love to express themselves through movement without the rigidity of ‘technical’ ballet class. We will look at Year 2 kids if they have had some dance experience, but the class is generally from Year 3 and up. Lizz will be taking this class. You are welcome to do a FREE trial of this class and see if it’s for you before you enroll. Just call the office and let us know. · CLASS CHANGE ALERT: Class 325 (Feel the beat / Tap) - this is now running as a semi-private class on Tuesdays at 5pm. Once we have 8 kids, we can return to general term fee structure. · PERFORMING ARTS TOURS: Visit www.performingartstours.com.au for all audition and touring info or you can email tours@aipa.com.au or call 9966 4473 and leave a message. · DATES FOR THE DIARY: Open class week this term will be 18 - 23 May and Grand Parents week will be 1-6 June. July school holiday camps will run from 13 - 17 July and from 20 - 24 July. Watch the website for the new workshops and feel free to email me with requests for what you would like to see more of on kpg@aipa.com.au - we hope to have more available for older kids too this time! · ENROLMENTS AND FEES FOR TERM 2: Please note that Term 2 fees are now payable and can be done so over the phone, online or at the office. Fees should please be paid upfront for the term. Feel free to call for any further info on 9966 5013. Keep doing your best! See you soon, Nicky
Filed Under On Newsletters Apr 30 2009
Dear KPG Member,
We trust that you have all had a happy and festive break! We have missed seeing your smiling faces and look forward to seeing you all back in studio!
· ENROLMENTS AND FEES FOR TERM 2: Please note that Term 2 fees are now payable and can be done so over the phone, online or at the office. Fees should please be paid upfront for the term. Feel free to call for any further info on 9966 5013. · KPG APRIL HOLIDAY WORKSHOPS: What a hit! We were AMAZED at the amount of talent that came through our doors these holidays. A great time was had by all and our teachers loved it too! Watch the newsletters for July camp info… coming soon! A warm welcome to all our camp kids who have now enrolled in term classes. · FESTIVAL ON THE GREEN: We are very excited to once again be taking part in this free event fun day! KPG will present a short segment on the main stage from 1.10-1.20pm. We will also have a stall there to promote KPG and our forthcoming attractions – so visit us in stall number 12! There will be lots on offer for the kids to enjoy! This event takes place at the St Ives Village Green, Memorial Avenue, St Ives this Sunday 3 May from 10am – 4pm. See you there! · KPG DRAMA PERFORMANCE: Wow, this year is racing by… it’s time for the drama performance soon! This will take place at the Independent Theatre on May 31st, at 2pm. Tickets will go on sale soon and YES… all Move & Groove kids ARE involved! · FAST & FRESH: Our KPG Company kids (blue, red and yellow group) will be performing in the national short play competition FAST & FRESH on Monday 25 May 2009 at Parramatta Riverside Theatre, 7.30pm. To book visit https://boxoffice.riversideparramatta.com.au/ShowListVenues.aspx · CIG: Well done to our Australian Improv Team who competed brilliantly at the Canadian Improv Games. During the exhibition match they were placed 1st and 3rd out of 4 teams and competed against the very experienced Canadian teams who were thrilled to have Australia on board! Again, well done! · CLASS CHANGE ALERT: Please be advised that due to low numbers in some classes and due to waiting lists in others, some changes have had to be made to the existing timetable. Please read carefully just in case this affects you and your kids:
Class 325 (Feel the beat / Tap) - is no longer running on a Thursday from 4-5pm. We are trying to accommodate this class on a Tuesday at 5pm and we have at least 5 places open for intermediate tappers in years 3-6. Sadly if we cannot fill this class, it won’t be running it term 2. Please chat to Nicky.
Class 302 (Funk Soul Brotha) – just a reminder that this class now runs for and 1 and ½ hours and not just 1 hour anymore and also that you will now need tap shoes for the 2nd half of the class.
Class 206 (Jazz Hip Hop) – just a note for those of you who really wanted to do this class but it was full… we have opened a second class at the very same time! Classes are now streamed and because of the split, we still have a few spaces available.
Class 727 (Contemporary) – no longer running.
Class 509 (Film Making) – no longer running. · THE MOD SQUAD: Due to popular demand, we are now looking at introducing an open Modern Dance class on Thursdays from 5 – 6pm for Primary School age + dancers which will focus on lyrical expressive songs and movement. A perfect class for those who love to express themselves through movement without the rigidity of ‘technical’ ballet class. We will look at Year 2 kids if they have had some dance experience. Lizz will be taking this class. · THE BIG BAD MUSICAL: Rehearsals are very much underway for this production and we need to stress the importance of not missing your rehearsal times as this does impact on the rest of the cast. We know you do your best to get here but we ask that you make this a priority as time is moving fast! · PERFORMING ARTS TOURS: Visit www.performingartstours.com.au for all audition and touring info or you can email tours@aipa.com.au or call 9966 4473 and leave a message. · PRIVATE ACTING CLASSES: By Jennifer Monk. $65 per hour. Focus on an audition piece or strengthen your craft through voice, body, emotion and character connection. Email kpg@aipa.com.au for more information. · DATES FOR THE DIARY: Open class week this term will be 18 – 23 May and Grand Parents week will be 1-6 June. · The KICK Gospel Choir has arrived! If you love jazzy gospel music, love to sing and love to have fun, then this choir is a great opportunity for you! Lead by Ben Ward, the choir will meet in Studio 5 at KICK from 7.30 through to 9.30pm every Monday (starting 4th May). We’re going to cover all of the gospel greats, some fantastic Motown, as well as some jazz and pop. The purpose of the choir is to have fun and express yourself through music, with possibilities coming up for public performance later in the year. The choir is being run as a trial program at KICK for term 2, and will continue past then as numbers pick up. For this term there is no cost associated to be in the class except covering the small cost of your music. The age group for this choir is generally 16 -99! Some exceptions will be made depending on maturity and skill. If you would like to enroll into the choir, or would like to come along on Monday just to check it out and see if it’s for you, please phone or email Nicky Joffe at the KPG office on 9966 5013 or kpg@aipa.com.au - See you Monday? We look forward to an amazing term 2 as we watch you develop and grow! Please note that Marg has taken another group to the US, so in her absence, please feel free to chat to me if you have any concerns or queries. All the best,
Nicky J
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