Performing Arts
It has been a busy and rewarding start to Term 3, with music, acting and dancing filling every corner of the BPAC.
Newsies
Newsies remains firmly on the lips of all who experienced this spectacular production. Our exceptionally talented cast brought the story of standing up for what is right to life with energy, conviction and warmth.
Nothing can break us
No one can make us quit before we're done
One for all and all for one!
The standard of performance was outstanding. The vocals were powerful and expressive, showcasing beautiful tonal qualities. The acting drew audiences into the characters and their relationships, while the dancing reached a level that truly had to be seen to be believed. Every student involved should be enormously proud of what they achieved.
We also extend our sincere congratulations to the many staff members who worked tirelessly behind the scenes. From costumes, set construction and painting, props, stage management, front of house, lighting and sound, their dedication provided invaluable support to our student performers. Audiences were also treated to a professional-standard live band each evening, which added immensely to the production's success.
Four staff members, in particular, deserve special recognition for the countless hours invested in bringing a production of this calibre to the stage, from selecting the show and conducting auditions through to rehearsals and performance week. Our heartfelt thanks go to Miss Claire Hogan, Mrs Gabrielle Bail, Mrs Stephanie Barnden and Mr Aaron Chan. We salute you and thank you for your extraordinary commitment.
Junior Ensemble Evening
At the conclusion of last term, we were delighted to present our Junior Ensemble Evening. All Junior School ensembles performed for a highly supportive audience, demonstrating impressive musicianship and presentation standards.
Our four string ensembles, Andante, Cabaletta, Ostinato and Malaguena, showcased the growth and development of our string players from Year 3 through to Year 6. The Junior Concert Band not only shared an exciting repertoire of its own but also combined with Malaguena to form the Junior School Orchestra, providing students with a unique ensemble experience.
The Tuned Percussion Ensembles opened the evening with an engaging collection of classical favourites and popular music. Our choral program was also prominently featured, with both the Cherub and Seraphim Choirs delighting the audience before combining to conclude the evening. The Junior Vocal Ensemble further impressed with talented solo performances and polished choreography.
Recently, Malaguena had the privilege of sharing the joy of music-making at Oxley with prospective families during a School at Work presentation. The next event of this kind will feature the Barbershop Boys.
Last weekend, the Senior Vocal Ensemble and the Barbershop Boys represented the College at a community concert in Camberwell alongside the Camberwell Salvation Army Band and the Salvation Army's Melbourne Staff Songsters. Their performances were warmly received, combining close harmonies, choreographed movement and beautiful tonal qualities across a varied repertoire. A string quartet was also featured, accompanying one of the items, while the Senior Vocal Ensemble brought the evening to a memorable conclusion by joining the Melbourne Staff Songsters in a gospel number.
Chitty Chitty Bang Bang JR.
Meanwhile, the Junior School is well underway with preparations for its production of Chitty Chitty Bang Bang JR., a timeless classic that will delight audiences of all ages. The Year 6 students take on all principal roles, while every year level is featured in its own musical number before joining together for an energetic finale. Tickets are now on sale and selling quickly, so be sure to secure yours soon.
As we celebrate the many achievements of our students, the message from Chitty Chitty Bang Bang JR. resonates with us all:
Teamwork can make a dream work if you're not afraid to fight.
Teamwork can make a dream work if you fight for what is right.
Though it seems a dream's impossible to do,
Great teams make its possibilities come true.
So when you start out, let all your heart out.
And we won't stop what we begin!
Yes, teamwork can make a dream work if we have got the will to win.
The dedication, teamwork and passion demonstrated by our students and staff continue to make remarkable things possible in Performing Arts at Oxley.
Mr Jeffrey Clarke
Director of Performing Arts