Following six months of intensive rehearsals, the 164 strong cast of Hoërskool Hans Moore’s revue troop took to the stage from August 4 to 9, to perform its bi-annual non-competitive production.

Having claimed top honours at the SA Champs, Kaleidoscope and 8 Beats in 2022 and 2024, excellence in performing arts and culture has become synonymous with the school, luring many prospective Grade Eights with the hope of making the cut in one of Leila Coetzee’s awe inspiring productions.

Teenage Wasteland was inspired by English rock band The Who’s Baba O’Reily track and featured a set list created to transport the audience to their youth, evoking memories of care-free days while trying to find their place in the world.

“The production was written with the audience in mind. I wanted the beats of familiar songs to course through their veins, causing their toes to start tapping,” said Leila, an enthusiastic director and educator.

“I also wanted to highlight the emotions and struggles that our youth often experience, showing that even when it seems like they are veering off track, they are brimming with potential. All they need is a little guidance and patience.”

With his jaw clenched, Kelvin Coetzee (18) dons a leather jacket making him appear like a stereotypical ‘bad boy.’

He is playing the male lead in this year’s production with his rugged voice featured in four solos.

“This is the fifth time that I am participating in the revue and this is by far my favourite production,” said the self-professed culture vulture.

“At our school, revue is king! Everyone wants to be part of the experience. This year’s production, however, carries a universal message of teens crying out to the older generations to have a little more understanding.”

He explains that the theme centres around the various challenges that the youth face.

“Sometimes we get stubborn, perhaps a little cheeky – acting out of sorts,” he said.

“The world is a confusing place at the moment and even more so for teens trying to find their identity. We are sometimes difficult but it is not out of malice; we are simply trying to find our footing.”

Echoing his sentiments, Jordan Liebenberg (18), who portrays the role of the diligent head girl, said that performing has created a space where she can explore her passion and break the boundaries of uncertainty.

“Being on stage I am completely free from reality and anything which may cause anxiety is left in the change room,” said the spritely blonde.

“These revues have not only set me on a course to explore a career within the entertainment industry but has shaped me to become the person I am today.”

Clearly idolising the driving force behind the school’s larger-than-life productions, female lead Laché Leonard (16), says she would like to follow in the footsteps of their dedicated director, Leila.

“I have learnt a great deal from her in the past four years. She identified my strengths, weaknesses and passion from the very first day,” she said, shaking the stress of an earlier test out of her head and she prepares to step onto stage.

“Performing is exhilarating but it becomes a powerful tool to relay strong messages to the audience.

“I hope that the emotion captured in Teenage Wasteland will resonate with the audience.”

VOX: What do you enjoy about being part of the Hoërskool Hans Moore’s revue troop?

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