Open Music Academy (OMA) Students Pallas Hannan and Kate Magner Selected for Prestigious 'Class of Cabaret' Program

Two current vocal students of the Open Music Academy (OMA) were hand-picked to participate in the highly competitive Class of Cabaret program run by the Adelaide Festival Centre, in conjunction with the Adelaide Cabaret Festival.

The program has been running for the past 16 years, and every year offers the opportunity for intensive training in the art of cabaret writing and performance for selected Year 11 and 12 students.

Class of Cabaret is a collaboration between the Adelaide Cabaret Festival and Adelaide Festival Centre's centrED, and is made possible thanks to the Department for Education, South Australia. All students enrol in a SACE Stage 1 or 2 program through Thebarton Senior College and they perform at the 2026 Adelaide Cabaret Festival!

OMA students Kate Magner and Pallas Hannan, both voice students of Stephanie Acraman, participated in this year’s program, presenting their self-written cabarets in the Dunstan Theatre.

Kate had this to say about her involvement with the OMA and the Class of Cabaret experience:

'Being part of the OMA Program has been such a big help in getting ready for Class of Cabaret. The lessons have pushed me to grow as a performer, not just in my vocal technique, but also in how I connect with a song and tell its story.

Having regular feedback and guidance from mentors has really boosted my confidence and helped me shape my own style. Through OMA, I’ve received valuable feedback from experienced mentors who have helped me identify my strengths and areas to work on, which has boosted my confidence a lot.

The lessons have also taught me the importance of discipline, rehearsal, and professionalism, all essential skills for any performer.

Class of Cabaret has been an amazing experience on top of that. It’s challenged me to step outside my comfort zone, work closely with others, and bring more of myself to the stage. I’ve learned so much about performing, but also about trusting myself and enjoying the process.'

Class of Cabaret provides a unique learning opportunity for talented, passionate and courageous secondary students from various high schools to share their own perspectives through cabaret performance.

Class of Cabaret began in 2010 under the artistic direction of David Campbell at Adelaide Cabaret Festival. In 2026, Class of Cabaret's seventeenth year, students will develop the skills to engage the audience as they explore issues and ideas, using the cabaret art form as a voice for their generation.

Adelaide Cabaret Festival provides an expert team to develop each performer’s skills through masterclasses, workshops, and creative development sessions throughout Terms 1 and 2. The participants produce two spectacular shows for a ticketed public performance as part of the 2026 Adelaide Cabaret Festival, while also gaining accreditation towards their SACE. They will also receive guidance from an experienced accompanist, tuition from one of Adelaide's leading vocal teachers and mentorship in the art of cabaret performance from two renowned Adelaide artists.