That's how year 12 Katherine student, Angus Pickering has described the upcoming Katherine BEAT showcase.

Having been in the spotlight for many years, Angus is eager to get back on stage at this year's BEAT showcase as one of four hosts - a position he has thrived in for many years.

Angus' love of performing was established at a young age and was fueled in recent years by being the 'class clown'.

"I have loved performing to an audience for as long as I can remember. Being on stage and entertaining people makes me really happy, and I love performing to an audience that participates and gives great feedback, it's a huge buzz," he said.

"I've always liked making people laugh. Being the class clown at school is probably where I started off with this stuff. From there I moved into doing some comedy, and more recently, from attending the Katherine Performing Arts Hub, I've been given opportunities to MC for visiting comedians, singers and theatre performances.

"A good MC is the person who can get the audience excited and warmed up for the main act, it's a bit of a skill set of its own, and I'm enjoying learning how to be effective in the role."

Angus has been performing in The Beat since the first show in 2016 in a variety of capacities, including as a member in the choir, a solo performer and host.

Based on his extensive past with the event, Angus said The Beat is a way not only to see local students who thrive in the performing arts, but a chance for those on the shy side to give the stage a try in a welcoming environment.

"Lots of people struggle with public speaking. I think getting up on stage as a school student and finding out that it's not that scary is a really good thing for everyone to learn," he said.

"As for people like me who love performing, The Beat gives us an awesome opportunity to show off our skills.

"I hope as an older student, I can be a role model and inspire younger students to get up on stage and give performing a go."

Featuring local primary and secondary students, Katherine BEAT will be held on June 17, 2021 at the Lindsay Street Complex from 7pm.

Entry is a gold coin donation.

"It's going to be heaps of fun. Lots of laughs, music, dance and comedy. There are pirates, sea creatures and a gender confused mermaid, something for everyone," Angus said.

"I would really like to give a shout out to Matthew Owen from NT School of Music for being such a great teacher in pulling The Beat together, and all other staff at NTSM who make this happen."

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