Madagascar: A Musical Adventure Jr.

A Junior School production like Madagascar – A Musical Adventure Jr. is far more than a performance: it brings together students, teachers, parents and staff from across the school, each contributing their time and skills towards a shared purpose - to create something really special. 

The teamwork involved is extraordinary: actors on stage, those managing microphones, lighting, sets, costumes and props, every contribution matters. Students quickly discover that a successful performance depends not only on their own preparation, but on trusting and responding to others. Timing, awareness, flexibility and responsibility all play a part, and students learn that putting on a production is a team effort.

"We learnt many helpful skills from the production that we could use in the future. Throughout our journey to perform the production we needed to learn teamwork, leadership, communication and stage skills. First, we started out with an audition, we had to learn a song and perform a short scene from the production. Then we had a lesson in acceptance as we found out what roles we were given. During rehearsals we learnt what our roles did, how to work together and communicate effectively. Finally on stage we learnt to never give up." - Josh Leighton, Year 5

For our young performers, the opportunities for growth are just as important as the performance itself. Some discover confidence they never knew they had, others develop their artistry, embrace unfamiliar characters or learn to lead and encourage their peers. Even the youngest ensemble members experience the joy and discipline of creating something together.

"I used to be a very shy kid when I was younger, and I have to say that musical theatre has definitely helped with building my confidence. I also learned that it takes so much team work to put together a production with the set, dances, and lots more." - Ashlee Chau, Year 6

Of course a production also brings plenty of fun and memorable moments along the way. For Shu Lin (Year 6), these included a few unexpected mishaps during rehearsals like tripping over a smoke machine backstage, But it was the final performance that stood out most.

“I think that the most memorable moment was on Thursday night when the final curtain closed and I was suddenly surrounded by screaming children!” - Shu Lin, Year 6

Beyond the rehearsals and performances, one of the most rewarding parts of a production is the friendships that grow along the way. Working towards a shared goal gives students the chance to get to know one another and enjoy the experience together.

“Overall Madagascar was amazing. I loved every minute. I could do it all over again. I am still singing the songs, but the best part was I got a lot closer with the other cast members and teachers. We had so much fun while doing scenes or even just talking.” - Sophie Kennedy, Year 6

Music and storytelling have the power to make us laugh, move us to tears and reveal beauty in unexpected places. Through the creativity of children we are reminded that meaningful artistic expression is not limited by age. These performances belong to our whole school community. They are an opportunity for families to watch their own children as well as celebrate and be enriched by the gifts of others too. Supporting the performing arts is part of nurturing the culture and identity of our school.

Ultimately, a production is an act of generosity. Whether we perform, contribute behind the scenes or come to support and appreciate the work of others, we participate in something greater than ourselves. In this way, the performing arts bring to life our school motto: “Not for our own but others' good.”