General News
8 May, 2025
HAC performer ready to make debut
Warracknabeal's newest resident Jorja Polglase is set to make her Horsham Arts Council debut in 'The Last 10 Years' after scoring several roles in the anniversary production.
Ms Polglase grew up in Bendigo, also spending time in Melbourne for study, and now lives in Warracknabeal after taking a primary school teaching position.
"I didn’t grow up in Horsham but one of my closest friends from university did and I came along with her to see HAC’s production of 'Mamma Mia'," she said.
"I remember sitting in the audience just completely blown away by the talent on that stage and the quality of the production.
"It felt like something you’d see in the city."
After accepting the teaching job she thought she had to give up theatre and leave her passion behind.
"But then I remembered HAC and how impressed I was that night in the theatre," Ms Polglase said.
"I feel incredibly lucky that such a vibrant and welcoming theatre company is so close by."
For the second half of last year, Ms Polglase found herself in New Jersey in the United States for a six-month study exchange at Montclair State University.
Taking the advantage of staying half an hour away from New York City, she managed to see 29 Broadway shows while she was there.
"I chose the university specifically because of its proximity to Broadway, and it didn’t disappoint," she said.
"Although I was mainly studying education, I did sneak in one musical theatre class, which just happened to be taught by a top Broadway casting director.
"It was such a pinch-me experience and something I’m really grateful to be bringing back into my performances here at home."
Ms Polglase started following HAC on social media, where she saw the announcement of 'The Last 10 Years'.
"It sounded like such a creative and collaborative celebration and when I looked through the list of past productions, a few roles really jumped out at me," she said.
"I set up my phone in my dorm room, propped it up on a little tripod from Walmart and sent off my audition tape."
Ms Polglase was very successful as she landed several ensemble and featured roles including Ursula from the Disney showcase and Joanne in 'Rent'.
"Going into it I wasn’t sure if I’d be considered for a featured role since I hadn’t been part of HAC before and a lot of the roles are from past shows," she said.
"But the production team made it clear that everyone had a fair shot, no matter their history with the company.
"It’s honestly special that 'The Last 10 Years' is my first HAC production.
"Getting to see just how much this company has achieved not just over the last decade but over 60 years is really inspiring."
She said from the moment she set foot into rehearsals, she already knew another HAC show was in her future.
"You can feel how much heart and hard work goes into every show," Ms Polglase said.
"HAC is full of people who are not only talented but also kind, supportive and deeply passionate about what they do.
"As a teacher I’ve really loved seeing how HAC nurtures young performers and gives them opportunities to shine.
"The level of professionalism, the warmth and the community spirit is just something really special.
"If you’ve ever thought about getting involved, do it.
"You won’t regret it."
Tickets for 'The Last 10 Years' are on sale now with the season ready to kick off this Friday night.
They can be purchased at https://www.horshamtownhall.com.au/hthevent/horsham-arts-council-the-last-10-years/
