Pāpāmoa College students currently in rehearsals for ‘Fame Jr.' the musical are becoming well-acquainted with the big hair, bright clothing, and sharp shoulder pads of 80s fashion.

Set during the final years of New York City's ‘High School for the Performing Arts', whose doors closed permanently in 1984, ‘Fame Jr.' features a diverse range of characters and wonderful opportunities for the young performers to bring them to life.

'Being involved in the production has been a great opportunity to step into a new character and explore their personality,” says Taylan Medeiros, 14, who plays Carmen. 'I've learnt a lot about how to portray a character even when they contrast with my own personality.”

Inspired by the hit TV show, stage musical and movie ‘Fame', this rewrite features issues relevant to today's teenagers.

Dyslexia, eating disorders, relationships and image are some of the topics addressed within the show.

'There's a huge buy-in from the students as they recognise so many of these issues,” says Pāpāmoa College teacher and production director, Liz Proudlock.

Forty Year 7-10 pupils will perform on-stage in acting and ensemble roles, and as dancers.

'The production is an awesome way for a huge bunch of students to come together, have fun and do lots of singing and dancing,” says 14-year-old Ollie Sutcliffe, who plays Goody.

For those less inclined to the spotlight, there are equally important roles behind-the-scenes to fill.

Management of props, back-stage organising, lighting and sound will be mostly taken care of by junior students.

'These junior productions give the younger students the chance to shine on-stage and off,” says Liz.

Pāpāmoa College Fame production 2241 CS 002: Pāpāmoa College students rehearsing for their upcoming production of ‘Fame', on show October 26-29. Photo: Supplied.

A handful of senior students have stepped up to assist with vocal training, prop making, and by directing some smaller groups.

'It's great as it gives these older students a chance to use their talents in a way that's different than when they're acting,” says Liz.

Aside from opening the school's 300 seat theatre doors again after two years of restrictions, a huge bonus of the show is the sense of camaraderie being a part of it brings to those involved.

'The dedication and effort is worth it. It's fun to be part of something with other people that love the same things as you,” says Eden Singer-Denton, 12, who plays Ms Sherman.

James Ferns, 14, who plays Nick agrees.

'It's like we're one big family.”

Catherine Sylvester