Creative and Performing Arts (CAPA) Volume 28 Issue 4 - 18 March 2016

In Week 5, I began my adventures at St Patrick’s College, a first week that culminated in the College Open Day. It’s unique to get the opportunity to experience a showcase of the talent and commitment of the teachers you’ll be working with, in a large event, on your very first week. It was clear to see the passion these teachers exude for their subjects. It instantly made me feel excited to work alongside such creative professionals. The vibrancy of the Creative and Performing Arts department at St Patrick’s College is testament to the incredible work Ms Margaret Glynn has done in leading such a thriving and passionate department. I am lucky to get the chance to carry this glowing torch into the future and I look forward to complementing the strong past with new creative adventures.

Image by Joshua Coombes - Creative and Performing Arts Coordinator

(Below: A collaboration with Open Day participants, where they were encouraged by our Visual Arts teachers, Ms Louise Glase and Ms Tarna Tannous, to “Make Their Mark on St Pat’s.” One of the many fun activities on Open Day 2016)

On Open Day, I was tasked with showcasing a rehearsal for our upcoming musical production, Annie. Coming soon to a Mary Sheil Centre near you in June 2016. The production was already rolling forward when I jumped in as director. Ms Margaret Glynn and Ms Elizabeth Samyia (seen here, showcasing the dynamic energy of the St Patrick’s Ensemble in fine form as conductor – encouraging year 5 students to join the percussion section)…

…have put together a hugely talented cast for the show. At this point, I would like to congratulate the girls who managed to secure leading roles in this production: Sarah Malone as Annie, Meg Kay as Miss Hannigan and Rhiann Pejakovic as Grace.
Our production is seen through the eyes of Annie, an orphan who, despite her challenging upbringing, has faith that one day things will be brighter. Annie’s world is a more hopeful tomorrow, with a new president welcoming a new dawn for America. It is a rags to riches story which focusses on Annie’s attentive optimism. It is a lesson on how the mind can free you of the negativity surrounding you. Annie has faith in humanity and if things aren’t perfect just yet, there is always tomorrow.

To celebrate International Women’s Day, our guest speaker, Miss Candy Bowers, generously gave her time to present some Drama workshops to our year 9 and year 12 students. Candy spoke with the girls about the important role of women in the entertainment Industry and urged them to become writers of their own destiny. Our students had a great time with their role model and we thank Candy for her generosity in sharing her talent and wisdom.

Picasso said: “Every child is an artist, the problem is how to remain an artist once we grow up.” We in the Creative and Performing Arts hold the secret to this problem. We encourage you to engage in all we have to offer and continue to be artists all through your lives.

Mr Joshua Combes
Creative and Performing Arts Coordinator