Two years ago Luwanna Beeton was working backstage in her school's production, now she has a lead role and will perform in front of hundreds at the Albert Hall.
The 18-year-old Launceston Church Grammar student said she was part of the backstage crew for Strictly Ballroom in 2024.
"I was thinking, 'I wish that was me on stage'," Luwanna said.
With striking vocals and a natural ability, Ms Beeton secured the role of Ariel Moore in the school's 2026 production of Footloose.
"I had been on stage before, but it's easier being a character than being yourself," she said.
Ms Beeton said there were a few characteristics she felt she shared with her character.
"Ariel is very out spoken, and I think I am too. She definitely talks before she thinks but she has a soft side too," she said.
Despite all the glam, iconic vocal numbers and the fast feet of Footloose, Ms Beeton said her favourite part of being in the production was the community.
"There are all these grade eights and nines that I had never spoken to. The feeling after the show, everyone is so proud, it's such a great feeling," she said.
Director Will Robertson said the cast, made up of 72 students from grades seven to 12, will perform in the newly renovated Albert Hall from September 2 to September 5.
"It's really exciting being the first fully-fledged musical to be at the venue since its renovation," Mr Robertson said.
"We had to get really creative and think outside the box with lighting, sound and our staging.
"We are actually utilising the organ that's in-built in the Albert Hall, it was built in 1890 when the hall first opened."
Vocal director Eliza White said the school historically performed at the Princess Theatre for their productions, which was currently under renovation.
"The Albert Hall provides an opportunity for the kids to still be platformed in a really high production value way, when the alternative is doing it in a school hall," Ms White said.
"We have got really creative with our set, designed by Daryl Rogers, with a big extension that comes out that effectively creates a pit from the musicians so they get their credit as well."