ANTON LUITINGH, assistant director of 20 Years Of The Tony Awards and the “L” in LAMTA (Luitingh Alexander Musical Theatre Academy), has promised to make a musical theatre nerd out of me and I’m going to hold him to that (the groundwork has already been laid). Or is that a threat? A triple threat, even. Go with me here because that is the foundation of LAMTA, and with this final show of the year at Theatre On The Bay until this Saturday, the first, second and graduating third-year singing, dancing and acting students have once again blown my little mind.
The show covers 20 years of the Tony Awards, as the title promises, but it doesn’t focus on only the winners. It looks at the nominees and shows them some love too. I was worried I wouldn’t know most of the songs but Anton said that was fine, I wasn’t supposed to. That said, there were some I know, including Your Song from Moulin Rouge, performed by current graduate (as in this very week) Robert Everson, with Zoe Barty.
It’s such a beautiful song and Robert gives it true justice, making all look so effortless and pure. All through his student time at LAMTA, he has always stood out for me in so many productions. Now that he has graduated, I am delighted to have had the opportunity to ask him some questions about his time at LAMTA. Dear readers, I give you Robert Everson.
“LAMTA has taught me so much about the craft of musical theatre and everything that goes into it, but it has also shaped my sense of discipline, punctuality, and respect in a professional environment. I’ve learned how to show up fully – not just as an individual performer, but as a genuine team player. That’s positioned me incredibly well for my career. In this industry, talent and a strong work ethic are expected, but reliability, discipline, and respect are what really make you stand out in such a collaborative space.
“It feels surreal that this is already my final show at LAMTA. This journey has been one of the most meaningful experiences of my life, and I’ve been really taking in and cherishing these last moments with my classmates and friends. It’s emotional knowing this is the last one, but I also feel ready to step into the industry. It’s definitely bittersweet.
“I love group and ensemble numbers because they let me be part of something bigger than myself. They’re often powerful pieces with beautiful harmonies and choreography, and it’s such a joy to perform alongside my friends. Duets are a wonderful chance to explore the chemistry between two characters, and I’m lucky to be singing two in 20 Years of the Tonys: All I’ve Ever Known from Hadestown and Your Song from Moulin Rouge. Both are love songs and offer a really intimate connection on stage. Solos, on the other hand, are a great opportunity to showcase the work I’ve put into my voice and acting over the years – a real test of stage presence.”
Robert does ensemble numbers in 20 Years Of The Tonys, as well as Walk Like A Man from Jersey Boys, with Benjamin Stannard, Euan Frankim, and Michael Mittendorf; and the poignant Throwing In The Towel from The Outsiders with Benjamin again, and Vuyo Mcanyana.
“A few highlights from my time at LAMTA would definitely include Noises Off from earlier this year and Hollywood, our 2024 dance show. Both meant so much to me, each in different ways. Noises Off was my first lead in a stage play, and it was honestly the most fun I’ve ever had on a production – the combination of the cast and the material created some of the most unforgettable moments of my performing journey so far. Hollywood gave me the chance to sing a beautiful solo, I Will Talk and Hollywood Will Listen by Robbie Williams, which was incredibly special every night. The show balanced high energy with real depth, and being part of that cast allowed me to form some truly wonderful friendships.”
Robert says he will definitely be continuing a career in the theatre, having been cast for an exciting production which will begin rehearsals in early 2026, and will be announced…soon. In the meantime, see him and the rest of LAMTA belting it out – there are some massive voices in this show, like goosebump level, those SIX queens! – in 20 Years Of The Tonys at Theatre On The Bay until this Saturday, 13 December 2025. Tickets via Webtickets.
