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  • About Us | Be You Group

    I've learned that people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel . - Maya Angelou ABOUT US Be You is a charity focussed around education and empowerment in the music theatre space. The sole purpose of the organisation is to make ourselves obsolete by creating universal standards that work towards a music theatre industry that is inclusive, representative of the diversity of our context, and centres these diverse stories as the core of music theatre. We believe the narrative is key to the story and our emotional connection, not the presentation. We empower and inspire performers, challenge industry norms, and provide opportunities to artists from all backgrounds. Their core purpose is to create a more inclusive and supportive musical theatre community where diversity is celebrated, and every individual has the chance to shine. Key to this, we are focused around addressing the inequities of the music theatre industry through the redistribution of power, disruption of unchallenged norms, and actively holding space for marginalised and emerging performers. At the heart of what we do are our values: Be Balanced, and You Belong. We use best practices from across industries to help create a more robust music theatre space and set standards for teamwork and professionalism in an otherwise unregulated industry. Be You runs educational workshops and courses to empower young performers with technical and non-technical skills, fosters new works and creates spaces for performers by putting on full-scale professional productions. OUR VALUES We want an independent music theatre industry where: Every single person feels confident pursuing their goals Companies are open and transparent about their processes Power is available to everyone, and not just directors and production teams An ethical profit share model is used to benefit everyone working on a show We seek to create meaningful and lasting change for a fairer, more sustainable system. We strive to create a space for authentic and empowered storytelling, where diversity across all dimensions is not only embraced but actively celebrated. Be You strives to create a space where you can Be Balanced where You Belong. Balance and Belonging are at the heart of all that we do; through this lens we aim to create systems and processes to ensure greater equilibrium is found. We’re a company that foregrounds collaboration between diverse people, and through these efforts foster their ability to create, lead, and engage in all that we do ​ Be Balanced Balance to us is when everyone feels they not only have a seat at the table but have an equal opportunity and power. ​ People We will seek to follow equitable decisions making processes, based on your personal circumstances. We will seek to counteract any inherent bias and aims to remove any barriers to participation. We will strive to always improve, owning fault and seeking ongoing feedback to ensure accountability for our actions. Actions​ We will model transparency; we are honest and open. We will uphold strict conflict of interest policies to ensure casting opportunities are truly open We will be measured and reasoned in our approaches and decisions. ​ ​ You Belo ng Belonging is founded on our sense of community, where you can come as you are and be accepted wholeheartedly for you. ​ People We will seek to empower people to reach their full potential. We will seek to create psychologically safe spaces. We will strive to create a workforce and theatre industry that is reflective of our community, taking steps to ensure all voices are equally heard. Actions ​ We will normalise seeking support, values your time and respect your decisions​ We will act with compassion and understanding. We will be committed to tell stories with diverse perspectives. We believe that more voices create more robust and balanced decisions We value your time and respect your decisions Brendan Jelley (he/him) Casting and Communications Director Brendan is an Agent, Casting Director, and Communications Specialist with a background as a performer. His experience working on all sides of the casting process, has given him a unique perspective & expertise in supporting actors careers and assisting to develop their personal brand. ​ A proud member of the Be You Operations team he strives for an industry of empowered performers, creatives and companies. He aims to promote a more balanced & inclusive industry in his roles as Casting and Communications Director. ​ As an advocate for supportive environments in what can be a tough industry, Brendan always strives to challenge stigma, create opportunities, and share insight through experience. Daniele Buatti (he/him) Head of Broadway Unplugged & Graphic Design A highly skilled Music Director, Arranger, Orchestrator, Pianist, and Voice Coach in Melbourne, Daniele brings a holistic coaching approach to singers. Serving as the Musical and Creative Director of Broadway Unplugged since 2013, he leads a skilled band, crafts captivating arrangements, and delivers exciting concerts six times a year. Daniele's expertise extends to institutions like VCA, AIM, Ministry of Dance, and VCASS, where he serves as Music Director, Répétiteur, Accompanist, Vocal Coach, and Music Theory teacher. With an extensive musical background, Daniele has directed notable productions, including The Musical of Musicals: The Musical (Be You Productions), A Chorus Line (Federation University), A Little Night Music (Watch This), Bring It On (Stage Masters), and The Beautiful Game (Manilla Street Productions). Rebecca Price (she/her) Operations Director Rebecca is a proud descendant of the Tagalaka people of Far North Queensland and was recently an artist of the 2021 Maybe This Time showcase. Recently graduating with her Bachelor of Music (Music Theatre) from AIM, her love of engaging and performing with like-minded creatives to foster healthy work environments and inclusive conversations has her excited to be part of Be You. She served as a board member for three years before moving over to our operations team. Moving forward, her dream for the future of the theatre industry is one where everyone’s voice is heard and inclusivity and empowerment is second nature. The Be You Operations Team Bradley Dylan (he/they) Chief Executive Officer (CEO) As the founder of Be You, Bradley is the artistic voice and vision behind all of its projects. His passion for leadership, holistic approach to sociology and social systems, and degrees in business, management, and applied psychology, coupled with extensive experience in running production companies and performing arts studios since 2004, gives him a unique perspective on the future of theatre, and how best to use applied psychological approaches for the betterment of everyone involved. Bradley is an accredited Coach, a member of the Diversity Council Australia, the Institute of Executive Coaching and Leadership, and has recently completed a Master of Social and Organisational Leadership. He is the Producer of Broadway Unplugged and Artistic Director of Be You Productions. The Be You Board Laura de Iongh (she/her) President Through a lifetime of dance experience that led her to choreographing musicals in London, Laura brings her love of creation and organisation to the board, helping us to tailor our programs to suit wide audiences. As both a performer and creative team member, Laura brings a unique perspective to Be You that helps guide our values, and create safe, supportive theatre experiences. Harry Tibballs (he/him) Secretary / Vice President Our inaugural secretary, Harry brings years of committee and secretariat experience in a range of educational and cultural charities and not-for-profit organisations to our board. His passion for helping others is the driving force behind the board’s productivity, while performing in shows and working as a Doctor. Harry believes in balance, and that everyone involved in staging musicals should be kind, productive and prioritise fun. He created and runs our Be New program. ​ Jacqui Martin (she/her) Treasurer Jacqui Martin is a Melbourne based performer, director and arts creative working across many fields in the industry. As a director, Jacqui has worked in children’s theatre for 11 years producing shows that toured Australia, which she also performed in. In 2023, she directed a new Australian play by Lydia Kuelsen, ‘Burn it.’ Then again for the tour to Adelaide Fringe in 2024. Directing is a passion for Jacqui and she delights in collaborative projects where the work is created with writer, performer and director. As a performer, Jacqui most recently performed in ‘Hamlet’ as Gertrude/Gravedigger/Player 1/Polonius, Helena/Titania/Snug/Egeus/Puck in ‘Midsummer’ (Sheoak Productions), Silvia/Lucetta/Antonia in ‘Two Gents’ (That’s Classic Entertainment) and in ‘Dancing Queen Immersive Dining Experience’ (Viral Ventures). Jacqui also recently returned to study to complete her Cert IV in Music Theatre at Theatre Blacks and is the current Victorian Rep for Australian Stage Combat Association. Jacqui is currently working as Operations Manager at Dancehouse, home for contemporary dance, in Carlton North. She is excited to be joining the Be You Group and their Board as Treasurer. Adele Hirst (she/her) Board Member Adele is passionate about creating inclusive spaces and empowering people to realise their fullest potential. She is a learning & development professional with proven experience in consulting, stakeholder management, learning design, project management, and delivery at regional and country levels. As an avid world explorer, Adele considers herself a lifelong learner with deep curiosity who loves exploring and listening to people's unique stories. She is driven to make a difference for people and society everyday.

  • Akansha 'AK' Hungenahally

    < Back Akansha 'AK' Hungenahally she/her Claire Akansha Hungenahally is a singer, actor, activist, and song-writer with a passion for diverse storytelling in Australian musical theatre. Akansha has been singing since age 7, beginning her training in North Indian Classical Singing and adopting Western styles of singing at the age of 12. Having completed her Bachelor of Music Theatre at Federation University’s Arts Academy in 2019, she has since continued to study acting and dance, and earned certification in Mental Health First Aid (MHFA Australia) and Vocal Health First Aid (Vocal Health Education UK). She is proud to have featured in the award-winning musical short film ‘Suddenly’, and the greenroom nominated 2020 video phenomenon ‘I Need You To See Me’ by Vidya Makan, alongside 100 other emerging performers of colour. Akansha has also had the privilege of working amongst a team of all South-Asian actors in the Melbourne International Comedy Festival season of Sri Lankan Fire Team: The Power of Song. When she is not performing, Akansha shares her passion for ethical casting practices, inclusivity and accessibility, and authentic multicultural storytelling by engaging in Equity and Wellbeing work for theatre productions.

  • Ordinary Days | Be You Productions

    CALLBACK SUBMISSIONS CLOSE: WEDNESDAY 6 JULY 2022 AT 10PM. ​ For all of the characters, we’re looking for passion, and want to see how auditionees approach these songs in very different ways. Some are more ambitious, some are more dreamers. We've provided some background as to how we see each character, so feel free to lean in to these descriptions. Deb: What we’re looking for is for them to be unapologetic and willing to take up space. They’re restless and driven, systematic and scattered. Don’t Wanna Be Here: Bar 44 to end Sheet Music - Backing Track Beautiful (Deb): Bars 25 - 58 Sheet Music - Backing Track Dear Professor Thompson Pt.1 (whole song) Sheet Music - Backing Track Warren: We’re looking for an aspirational dreamer who is insecure, scattered and honest. They seek recognition, but are able to find beauty in the everyday elements of life. One by One by One: (whole song) Sheet Music - Backing Track ​ Beautiful (Warren): Bars: 25 - 58 Sheet Music - Backing Track Claire: We’re looking for someone who is protective, warm and organised in the present, and navigating holding onto a past of nostalgia and grief ​ Fine (Claire): Bars 69 - 93 Sheet Music - Backing Track Let Things Go: Bar 78 to end Sheet Music - Backing Track Jason: What we’re looking for is their romantic nature, excitement for the future and dislike of being alone. They wear their heart on their sleeve. Space Between: Bar 48 to end Sheet Music - Backing Track Fine (Jason): Bars 69 - 93 Sheet Music - Backing Track ​

  • Bradley Dylan | Be You

    Bradley Dylan (he/they) CEO@beyouinc.org Chief Executive Officer (CEO) - Be You Group Producer - Broadway Unplugged & Be New Artistic Director - Be You Productions Director and Lecturer - Maybe This Time Consulting Advisor - Be You Underground's Brand You My Story Bradley (he/they) is an accredited Coach who provides career guidance and personal brand development for performers, creatives, and business leaders. The founder and CEO of Be You, Bradley has a passion for leadership, holistic approach to sociology and social systems, and degrees in business, management, and applied psychology, along with extensive experience in running production companies, casting processes and performing arts studios. He created and leads the ‘Maybe This Time’ Professional Development Program supporting emerging artists to develop their brand and navigate the industry. He wishes for a world where everyone has access to paid performance opportunities and is working hard to remove barriers. As for his qualifications: Accredited Organisational Coach (Level 3) Master of Social and Organisational Leadership Bachelor of Business majoring in Management Associate Degree in Applied Psychology majoring in Sociology and Counselling Diploma in Accounting (which helps with financial skills!) Brad utilises each of these to bring balance and belonging to theatre, while ensuring an effective people-centred business model and culture. Bradley is a member of the Diversity Council Australia and the Institute of Executive Coaching and Leadership. By day, he works for the Australian Government as a People and Culture Coordinator.

  • Be You Group | Welcome!

    Be You Group runs many programs and projects, all with the charitable purpose of advancing the performing arts, specifically music theatre. About Be You Our Board Our Operations Team ​ Come work with us: Join our team Become a Member of Be You ​ Our Policies: Privacy Policy Casting Policy Be You Policies and Constitution Conflict of Interest Declarations Volunteers Statement Welcome to Be You Group Be You Group is a Melbourne-based organisation dedicated to empowering performers, challenging industry norms, and providing diverse opportunities within the musical theatre community. The organisation operates on the traditional lands of the Wurundjeri People of the Kulin Nation and emphasises respect for their storytelling traditions. ​ Be You Ed focuses on imparting practical and theoretical knowledge across all areas of performance and production. This arm aims to educate and inform the industry, thereby strengthening it as a whole through workshops, concerts, shows, and mentoring. ​ Be You Productions is a professional independent theatre company in Melbourne. It strives to create sustainable theatre through an Ethical Profit Share model, ensuring fair compensation for contributors. Its productions, like "Lucky Stiff," aim to blend entertainment with the development of talents and stories, emphasising open auditions, transparency, and a focus on story over spectacle​​. ​ Be New is dedicated to developing and nurturing new Australian works of music theatre. It provides a platform for artists to develop their work to a stage-ready level through iterative feedback, collaboration with creatives and mentors, and opportunities for table reads and stand-and-sing sessions. The focus here is on the story and journey rather than the immediate staging, offering an intermediate step between concept and a full marketable show​​. ​ Be You Underground offers personal brand development and consultation for performers, with services including personalized brand consultation, self-tape/showreel feedback, and advice on marketing and standing out in the industry. Led by experienced professionals in performance, casting direction, communications, and talent agency work, it aims to empower performers to achieve their full potential​​. Broadway Unplugged serves as Australia's Musical Theatre industry night, offering a supportive environment for performers to showcase their talents. It is produced bi-monthly at The Toff in Town, emphasising inclusivity, support, and fundraising through volunteer efforts, save for the band and host who receive a small stipend. The event provides a platform for both emerging and established artists to perform, connect with the community, and contribute to the development of Melbourne's artistic scene​​. ​ Together, these arms of the Be You Group contribute to a more inclusive, supportive, and diverse musical theatre community in Melbourne, offering various opportunities for performers, writers, and creatives to develop, showcase, and thrive within the industry. Brendan Jelley 8 min To Seek Rep or Self Rep - That is the Question. 231 Bradley Dylan 3 min Ethical Profit Share 486 Bradley Dylan 3 min Make Up Your Mind, and Let Us Know 218 Bradley Dylan 6 min Theatre should rethink Show Fees 450 Kaori Maeda-Judge 3 min Some mental health resources to help you through a hard time 89 Bradley Dylan 5 min Auditions 257 Bradley Dylan 4 min What are the ideal qualities of a director? 1,968 Bradley Dylan 5 min Production teams should emulate the characteristics of Employers of Choice 118

  • Charlie Boscolo

    < Back Charlie Boscolo he/they Jason Graduating from Federation University in 2019 with a Bachelor in Music Theatre, Naarm (Melbourne) based actor Charlie Boscolo has continued their training through various workshops and short courses to rekindle their love for acting after two years in lockdown. They have taken part in The Depth: Scene Study at 16th Street Studios (2022) and Be You’s Maybe This Time: An Empowering Showcase (2021). They have also had the privilege to working with Antipodes Theatre in their Winter Labs (2022). With a keen interest in queer Australian Theatre, Charlie is excited to be part of Be You Production’s Ordinary Days.

  • Org Structure | Be You Group

    ORGANISATION STRUCTURE The Be You Group is embracing a new collaborative framework, utilising the unique skills of our members to better serve the needs of our community. ​ Be You Group consists of 3 principal leadership bodies; The Board , led by the President Operations Team , led by the CEO Advisory Body , led by the Advisory Head . Strategic Board Led by the President, the strategic board is composed of general board members and the board executive, including the Vice president, Treasurer, and Secretary. The Strategic Board should drive the core values of the organisation, consistently reviewing and evaluating the programs and projects of the company to ensure they are best serving the organisation’s purpose. They are responsible for the governance of the charity, including its policy and procedure. The Board meets once a month to review current projects, discuss and plan new initiatives, and ensure the required governance documentation is up to date. ​ Setting the Strategic Dir ection The board is responsible for setting the strategic direction and long-term goals of the organisation. They decide on the overall mission, vision, and core values. Oversight and Governance The board provides oversight and governance, ensuring that the organisation operates within legal and ethical boundaries. They make important decisions regarding policies, bylaws, and financial matters. Financial Oversight The board reviews and approves budgets, financial reports, and fundraising strategies. They ensure that financial resources are allocated effectively to support the organisation's mission. Operations Team Led by the CEO, the operations team is composed of individuals that are involved in the organisation and execution of one or more projects or initiatives. The team consists of Operations Management, who coordinate ongoing initiatives and other day-to-day activities for the organisation, as well as team members, who operate on a project-specific basis. The operations management team meets once every 2 weeks to align on current progress and priorities. All other team members are expected to engage with meetings on a variable per-project basis. Program and Initiative Im plementation The operations team follows the guidance provided by the CEO to implement the planning, development, and execution of programs and initiatives. They ensure that activities are carried out in line with the organisation's mission and values. Resource Management The operations team ensures that the financial, personnel and facilities requirements for the organisation's programs and initiatives are utilised effectively. Communication The operations team manages the communication between the organisation and the community. Advisory Body Led by the Advisory Head, the advisory body are members of the community with specialised expertise and knowledge, who are willing to lend their unique insights to aid the organisation when consultation is required. The Advisory Body will meet bi-annually with the CEO and Advisory Head to discuss current areas of interest or concern within the larger theatre community, and make recommendations and suggestions for the organisation as a whole. ​ Expert Guidance The advisory body provides specialised expertise and insights to guide the organisation's strategies and initiatives, particularly in areas that align with their expertise. Program Development and Improvement The advisory body advises on the development and improvement of programs, ensuring they align with best practices, especially in relation to equity, inclusion, balance, and belonging. Advocacy The advisory body advocates for diversity, inclusion, balance, and belonging within the organisation. They offer guidance on how these principles can be embedded in the organisation's activities. Advis ory Head This new leadership role within the Be You Group is a consultative position that would be ideal for someone who is interested in creating connections, sourcing unique perspectives, and ensuring that Be You continues to serve the needs of its members and the theatre community as a whole. Working closely with the CEO and President, the Advisory Head will be called upon to reach out to members of the community and seek expert opinions in situations where further input is required by the Operations or Executive team. This would include consulting on new project proposals, especially in relation to equity, inclusion, balance, and belonging. The Advisory Head is not required to provide expertise or advice themselves, but rather to operate as a conduit for others who have relevant expertise. Advisory Head

  • Broadway Unplugged | Melbourne

    Backstage Bianca Baykara Upfront Behinds Backstage 1/18 Perform at Broadway Unplugged Broadway Unplugged is Australia's Musical Theatre industry night. Born as an idea to support the musical theatre industry, Broadway Unplugged provides a platform for performers to do what they do best in a supportive environment. Hosted by the incomparable Gillian Cosgriff and musically lead by Music Director, Daniele Buatti. Produced by Bradley Dylan & Weng Yi Wong Performed bi-monthy at The Toff in Town. ​ Broadway Unplugged's mission is to create a platform for performers to showcase their talent in a supportive and inclusive environment. It aims to provide opportunities for both emerging and established artists to perform and connect with the musical theatre community. It serves as a platform where artists can express themselves and contribute to the development of the emerging artistic community in Melbourne while also raising funds for charitable purposes. Everyone who is involved with Broadway Unplugged is a volunteer other than our band and host, who are on a low stipend to maximise fundraising efforts.

  • Brendan Jelley | Be You

    Brendan Jelley (he/him) brendan@beyouinc.org casting@beyouinc.org underground@beyouinc.org Casting Director - Be You Group Communications Director - Be You Group Creative Director and Lead Consultant - Be You Underground Movement Director - The Musical of Musicals - Be You Productions Resident Choreographer - title of show - Be You Productions My Story Brendan is a Casting and Communications professional as well as passionate performer with experience in many areas of the industry. His performance journey includes Musical Theatre productions, dancing around the world on cruise ships, as well as working with contemporary and commercial dance companies. A proud member of the Be You Operations team he strives for an industry of empowered performers, creatives and companies. He aims to promote a more diverse inclusive industry in his roles as Casting Director and Head of Communications. As an advocate for supportive environments in what can be a tough industry, Brendan always strives to challenge stigma, create opportunities, and share insight through experience. ​ Brendan is an Agent with Random Management .

  • Daniele Buatti | Be You

    Daniele Buatti (he/him) daniele@beyouinc.org A passionate musician, music director, and storyteller, Daniele loves nothing more than exploring how music can be used to effect an audience and support the sharing of stories. He brings a wealth of experience to the board through his knowledge of music, his love of story, and his desire to make genuine connections with people. My Story At the heart of creating sound, is a willingness to express. ​ I'm a passionate and caring Music Director based in Melbourne. I am a highly skilled pianist, arranger and work extensively as a voice coach with developing performers. I have a great passion in working with the voice and love to combine my knowledge of yoga to help performers unlock their unique sound. I hold a great passion for helping artists express themselves and take unique and holistic approach to the voice, connecting breath, body and mind to help create an embodied performance. ​ THOUGHT • INTENTION • BREATH • EXPRESSION I believe that expression only happens when the thought arises to express. I wish to help people connect with their body and voice, in order to convey a deeply and truly embodied character. With a therapeutic approach to the voice, each student can expect to not only inform the characters they are portraying, but to also gain a better understanding of their own mannerisms, expressions and thoughts.

  • School Audition Grants | Be You Ed.

    School Audition Grants Applications for 2023 are now closed. Bookmark this page as we run these grants every year. ​ If you're a young person who wants to audition for performing arts universities , you're expected to pay a fee to audition. Fees have inflated to $80 to $90 per school - so if you want to apply to study at just two of these universities you will be expected to pay at least $160 for the opportunity. These fees are not covered by a HECS- or FEE-HELP loan, and are non-refundable. There are so many young people who aren’t able to easily pay this fee. We don’t want this to be a barrier to enter the music theatre industry (especially when these courses are covered by loans available for these Commonwealth supported places ) We believe these fees are a large barrier to entry for people who are disadvantaged, and we want to help. We’re giving out grants to people who find it hard to audition for performing arts schools due to the expensive audition application fees. ​ What are the details? We’re giving grants for those who have encountered barriers and/or have struggled to access our industry due to experiencing disadvantage. In line with our philosophy of diversity, access, and inclusion, we will be awarding these grants to people who are disadvantaged, prioritising those who identify as indigenous, black, and people of colour (IBPOC). ​ How do I apply? To apply please fill out the form below. In the application form there's a space provided for you to share links / attach clips of you performing. The application process is a chance for us to hear your story, learn about you and why you’d like to be considered and to see your passion for performance, so don’t hold back! How will we make the decision? Our panel will look at your answers to our questions and decide on our grant recipients by assessing: The efforts taken by the individual to get to this point The difficulties the individual may have faced The individuals level of passion for the craft The foundational skillset of the performer The impact the grant would have for the individual ​ Our decision making will be strictly in line with our Conflict of Interest policy in which, if a panel member has worked with an applicant in a meaningful way, or has a personal connection that makes the panel member biased, this panel member will declare their conflict and not be allowed to offer any advice on the selection of that applicant. Be You Productions Incorporated's School Audition Grant Conditions Applications will be accepted until 10 September 2023 Grants provided by Be You Grants Fund Trust Definitions: Grantee: The person who will receive the grant Application: Your audition application for a school, and the subsequent invoice for payment. Completion Date: Your scheduled audition date. ​ Conditions: The Grantee must use the whole of the grant exclusively for the application as described in the application for the grant and not for any other purpose. Be You Group Incorporated will only issue the grant to the Grantee. The grant will be provided up to the cost incurred as per the invoice. If the Application is not completed and received by the end date specified on the application (“the Completion Date”) without an extension of the Completion Date approved in writing by Be You Group Incorporated, the Grant may be revoked. No part of the Grant may be used after the Completion Date without approval in writing from Be You Group Incorporated. The Grantee must promptly advise Be You Group Incorporated of any changes which may affect the Grantee’s ability to undertake or complete the Application within the specified period. The Grantee will use the grant only within Australia and, where specified in the application, within that particular State or Territory. The Grantee must provide Be You Group Incorporated with an official receipt from the school applied to within 10 business days from receiving the grant. These Grant Conditions are subject to variations, deletions and additional conditions, deemed appropriate by Be You Productions Incorporated, before or at the time of payment. By accepting payment of the grant, the Grantee acknowledges that such variations, deletions and additional conditions may apply. NOTE: Failure to meet the Grant Conditions will be taken into consideration if future applications are submitted to Be You Group Incorporated.

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