From the time she was four years old, Amanda Vega Carrera has had a passion for the performing arts.
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She first became involved when she joined a new performing arts school with her sisters.
"As soon as I got there they were so welcoming and uplifting. I just fell in love with performing arts," she said.
Since then she has continued to be involved in performing arts and has also become part of the Wingecarribee Vocal Muster.
She has also been a part of Moss Vale High School concerts, Southern Highlands Youth Arts Council (SHYAC) productions and dance schools.
Amanda has taken part in a holiday workshop at NIDA for musical theatre.
She is part of a troupe dance group, has been working through the AMEB levels on piano and sings in three different groups from a small ensemble to a mass choir at school.
"I've done dancing more than singing. But singing has still been a part of my life- I sing in the shower and the car."
Amanda has been involved with the Vocal Muster since the end of last year after her step-dad organised for her to watch a Muster performance in Bundanoon.
With Richard Lane still holding lessons during the pandemic, Amanda said she had been able to improve her singing ability, range and strength over the past few months.
She has also appreciated the holiday master classes with several different artists.
"That's inspired me to work towards a career in performing arts."
Now in Year 11, Amanda wants to do well in her HSC next year in Music and said the extra support from Richard would be beneficial.
Once she has completed school, Amanda said she hoped to attend the Western Australia Academy of Performing Arts (WAAPA)
"One of the important things I've learnt is to follow your passion and enjoy the moment. Performing can be nervewracking but it can also be fun.
"Coming together with other people is exhilarating. It's good you get to support each other and cheer each other on."
Musical theatre has been a major influence in her life.
"I feel like I've connected with musical theatre for a long time."
Amanda will be part of the Wingecarribee Vocal Muster's virtual concert later this month.
The virtual concert will be on July 18 with 10 students performing a few songs each. The concert will be broadcast online, Facebook, Instagram and Youtube.
Visit https://wvmuster.com.au/ to find out more about the Wingecarribee Vocal Muster.
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