CLOC provides accredited training in all aspects of theatre technology at no cost to the taxpayer. Qualified CLOC personnel supervise and assess students in the practical placement modules for a range of undergraduate qualifications at tertiary educational institutions including: Monash and Swinburne universities, Box Hill and Holmesglen TAFE colleges and work experience at secondary institutions.
In 1998 CLOC further recognised and encouraged the work of tertiary students, by introducing an award for costume design at Swinburne University of Technology. The winner for 2001, Miranda Kalgovas, a final year Diploma in Theatre Technology student, created a series of striking contemporary designs for "Chicago" and was nominated for Best Wardrobe by the Music Theatre Guild of Victoria.
A production requires about two hundred people and there are opportunities for individuals to perform on stage or work behind the scenes. CLOC provides both theoretical and hands-on experience in every facet of theatre: set design, set construction and painting, costumes, props, hairdressing, orchestra, advertising, administration, stage management, choreography and directing. Indeed, CLOC productions are a fantastic way to gain experience while waiting for that "big break".
CLOC's achievements in education and training are evidenced by the successful careers of so many members in professional theatre. Suzanne Johnston, who started with CLOC as a chorus girl at the age of 16, and John Wegner, who started with CLOC as a young man, were CLOC performers before joining the Australian Opera as principals. Eight year old Robert Dora, who was Young Cosmo in Singin in the Rain, won the role of Gavroche in the most recent Melbourne production of Les Miserables.
CLOC also provides the opportunity for many professional theatrical people to participate either on stage or in various aspects of productions on a totally voluntary basis, thus passing on their knowledge and skills to those starting out. Donald Cant who played the title role in the Sydney season of Phantom of the Opera and Gary Baade who was Jean Val Jean in the touring season of Les Miserables, are just two of the professionals who have returned to CLOC to perform in a non professional capacity.
At the secondary level, CLOC provides a wide range of services to schools including: heavily discounted rates for the hire of costumes and props; technical assistance; guest lecturers; administrative and organisational know how.
CLOC is an integral part of the Victorian arts industry. Its strong commitment to presenting high quality musical theatre is evidenced by the profile of its performers and technicians. CLOC attracts over four hundred auditionees each year ranging in age from 15 to 72 with an average age of 28. Many of CLOC's performers and backstage workers are young. Each one is given every opportunity to fully participate in the many dimensions of contemporary musical theatre.
