Written by Shaun Ryan
Bright lights and superstars: It all started in Hervey Bay
His career on stage has taken him to the biggest cities in the world and allowed him to perform alongside some of the most well-known names in the entertainment industry – but the Fraser Coast will always have a special place in Tom Struik’s heart.
Tom returns to the Fraser Coast with The Tap Pack later this month.
The Tap Pack will perform at the Brolga Theatre and Convention Centre on Wednesday, June 23 as part of their tour of Queensland and New South Wales.
“It’s going to be great to be back at the Brolga. I have performed there before with a different show and being so close to home, I’m sure my mum will be there with at least 40 of her friends,” Tom said.
The 28-year-old grew up in Hervey Bay and attended Xavier Catholic College and Urangan State High School before moving to Brisbane to follow his dreams of becoming a performer.
“I always knew I wanted to perform. I started dancing in primary school and I haven’t really considered anything else.”
Tom’s career really started to takeoff last year, with The Tap Pack performing in the US before COVID-19 struck.
“Sadly, the pandemic caused our US tour to be cut short by around three weeks,” Tom said.
“The Tap Pack is my favourite show I’ve done so far. It’s taken me to the US and the Edinburgh Fringe Festival, among other amazing places. The show is one you really want to watch.”
“There is a little bit of comedy, great singing, tapping and even a trick or two. It’s basically just five really talented guys putting on a great show.”
Despite rubbing shoulders with some of the world’s biggest stars – did someone say Will.i.am from the Black Eyed Peas, Kylie Minogue and Ricky Martin – Hervey Bay will always be a special place for Tom.
“This is where I grew up. We have a busy schedule on this tour but I’ll definitely be getting one of mum’s homecooked meals.”
The Fraser Coast boasts some pretty great attractions.
We have the best whale watching in the world, K’gari (Fraser Island) on our doorstep, amazing history and heritage in Maryborough and award-winning street art. But there’s one other venue Tom can’t stop raving about.
Big Screen Cinemas Hervey Bay.
“It’s a great place to watch a movie,” he said.
“I tell everyone.”