Interview with Hannah Cañon by Freya Bennett
From Melton to Melbourne’s stage, Hannah Cañon has danced her way from a humble upbringing to a thriving arts career. A former national Latin dance champion, she now joins the ensemble of the reimagined Saturday Night Fever at the Athenaeum Theatre, one of just 24 cast from over 400 auditionees. We caught up with Hannah to hear about her journey, her passion for performance, and what it’s like to bring this iconic musical to life.
Hi Hannah, how are you? How does it feel to be part of the Saturday Night Fever Melbourne cast, especially in such a competitive selection process?
I’m so excited and honoured to have been selected through audition to be part of such a talented cast with so much passion and such a high level of ability. The cast and team really are something special each offering such unique skill sets.
You grew up in Melton with your mum and four sisters—how has your upbringing shaped your path as a performer and the way you approach your art?
My mum raised my four sisters and me to always pursue our passions and express ourselves in everything we do. Being Chilean, I grew up Latin dancing, and my mum strongly encouraged me to be resilient and bold in pursuing my goals. I owe my work ethic and passion to her. She instilled values of self-expression, passion, and resilience in my sisters and me.
As a former national Latin dance champion, how has your dance background prepared you for performing in a high-energy ensemble like this one?
Years of training, competing, and performing as a Latin dancer and singer both nationally and internationally have prepared me for this incredible show, where I not only get to showcase my skills as a Latin dancer while singing, but—most importantly—connect with my fellow cast members on stage in a unique way. Latin dancing allows you to explore connection, energy, and passion with not only your dance partner but also those you share the stage with, and the grit, athleticism, and artistry it demands create an honesty and authenticity on stage.
What has been the most exciting or surprising part of rehearsing for this reimagined production, especially with its iconic music, choreography, and digital set design?
It’s been such a thrill to be part of a really gritty, authentic, and honest depiction of Saturday Night Fever that explores—and doesn’t shy away from—themes that are real and, in some ways, challenging. Coupled with the high level and skill set within the cast and creative team it makes it all truly special!!
Saturday Night Fever explores themes of escapism, friendship, and working-class life—how do you connect with the story and your role within the ensemble on a personal level?
Being raised by a hardworking single mother and witnessing the sacrifices she made for my sisters and me, as well as growing up working-class, has shaped who I am. I deeply relate to dance as a form of escapism and a way to rise above difficult circumstances. The racial tensions toward Latinos are also something I am, unfortunately, familiar with through my family’s experiences, and these moments have allowed me to connect with the show and help tell its story authentically.
