Performing Arts
Music Matters
Our Performing Arts students have continued to impress, sharing their talents on stage, in the community, and beyond the classroom in what has been another busy week in our Performing Arts calendar.
Breaking news:
Performing Arts Cultural Tour Announcement
At our Farewell to Seniors Twilight Concert last Friday night, I was able to finally break the news that, for the first time in St Pius X College history, we will be offering a Performing Arts Cultural Tour to take place in the June/July school holidays of 2026.
This extraordinary opportunity will see students journey through London, Stratford-upon-Avon and Austria, attending world-class concerts, musicals, plays, and workshops, while immersing themselves in the rich cultural and historical landmarks of each destination. The tour is open to all elective Music and Drama students, as well as Cocurricular Performing Arts Music and Drama ensemble members in Years 9–12 in 2026.
An information evening for interested students and their families will be held tonight at 6:00 pm in the Band Room. Expression of Interest forms have been emailed directly to relevant parents. Parents unable to make the information evening should email: mdodd@stpiusx.nsw.edu.au for an information pack.
‘Farewell to Seniors’ Twilight Concert
Congratulations to our talented musicians and dedicated ensemble leaders for delivering a truly magnificent concert last Friday evening. The event was a fitting tribute to our Year 12 students, whose passion and commitment have greatly enriched our Performing Arts community. The evening was expertly hosted by our Performing Arts Captains - Patrick Elliott, Robert Oner, and Jonty Cortis-Jones - who delivered a polished and engaging presentation that kept the audience both entertained and warmly connected throughout the night.
The highlight of the evening was undoubtedly the outstanding performances by our HSC soloists – Jorge Membrillera (Guitar, Music 1), Aiden Perez (Drums, Music 1), Patrick Elliott (Tenor Saxophone, Music 2 and Extension) and Fin Craig (Bass Guitar, Music 1). Their artistry and musicianship shone brightly in what was their final Twilight Concert appearance.
I like to say it takes a village to stage a concert and last Friday night was no exception. A heartfelt thank you goes to our talented Performing Arts staff, including our ensemble directors and HSC accompanists – Mr Andrew Saar, Mr Brendan Jones, Mr Stephen Cummins, Ms Laura Power, Mr Geoff Power, Mrs Stella Talati, Mr Ian Talati, Ms Stephanie Gan, Mr Matt Thomson and Mr Tim Brigden – who work tirelessly with our musicians to inspire and nurture their creativity, foster excellence, and bring out the very best in our students in each and every performance.
We also extend our thanks to our incredible Maintenance staff who erect our elaborate staging to transform our gymnasium into an exciting concert space; to our Cocurricular administrative assistant, Ms Merryn Dodd for her constant support and to Ms Felicity Barrett for designing our vibrant program.
As always, our Performing Arts Parents’ Association (PAPA) provide unwavering support to our musicians and drama students, generously giving their time and energy to ensure every performance and event is a success. Each Year 12 Performing Arts student was gifted an engraved pen and certificate, in recognition of their important contribution to the performing arts during their time at the College.
Father’s Day Mass and Breakfast
Thank you to our Junior and Senior Chorales, accompanied by Ms Stephanie Gan and Mr Ryan Balboa for their beautiful contribution to the Father’s Day Mass at Our Lady of Dolours last Friday. I received many compliments about their beautiful singing which added a truly special dimension to the celebration.
Our Guitar Ensembles, led by Mr Shane Cranney, delighted fathers, special father figures, and sons with a lively repertoire of toe-tapping favourites, providing the perfect soundtrack to the sunshine and BBQ breakfast.
Chatswood Street Fair and Parade
Under the dynamic direction of Mr Ian Talati, the Drumline delivered an unforgettable performance, captivating the crowds with their energy and precision last Saturday. Leading staff and students from St Pius X College, Our Lady of Dolours Primary School and Parish, and Mercy College, the drumline brought colour, rhythm, and excitement to the streets of Chatswood, creating a vibrant atmosphere that set the tone for the day’s celebrations and certainly left a lasting impression on the crowds.
The Senior Jazz Ensemble provided outstanding music at The Concourse for the Cocurricular Colours Awards on Monday, adding a vibrant and sophisticated atmosphere to the occasion. Their polished performance showcased both their technical skill and their enthusiasm for sharing music with the wider school community. Congratulations to Parick Elliott for his sublime tenor saxophone solo in ‘In a Sentimental Mood’ and to Rob Oner for his skilful and funky trombone solo in ‘Just Friends’.
A special thank you goes to their dedicated director, Mr Geoff Power, whose guidance and expertise continue to inspire the ensemble and elevate their performances.
HSC Practical Exams
This week marked an important milestone for our Year 12 HSC Music students as they completed their Practical Examinations. As all students chose to specialise in Performance this year, these exams were worth 60% (Music 1), 65% (Music 2) and 100% (Music Extension) of their HSC external marks. We commend them for their months of preparation and dedication and for their fabulous performances.
Canonisation Orchestra
The dedication and talent of our orchestral musicians was evident as they joined forces with students from Mercy College to provide music for the Mass celebrating the canonisation of the first ‘millennial saint,’ Carlo Acutis, on Sunday evening. Their performance added depth and reverence to this historic occasion. Thank you for the important contribution you have made.
From PAPA - our Performing Arts Parents Association
Farewell to Seniors Twilight Concert – Thanks to our amazing volunteers
A big thank you to the 5 amazing volunteers who helped cook up a storm and fed over 100 performers last Friday at the Farewell to Seniors Twilight Concert. All the boys enjoyed the bread rolls with BBQ sausages and plenty of onion!
🎤PAPA Comedy Night annual fundraiser – Saturday 20 September – Peter Berner live 🎤
The SPX community is invited to see some of the sharpest (and funniest) comedic minds take the stage, including Australian comedy royalty and broadcasting legend, Peter Berner.
🎤 About Peter Berner: You've seen Peter on The B Team with Peter Berner, Einstein Factor, Backberner, The Loaded Brush, Good News Week, Rove, Sunrise and The Footy Show.
🎤 Support new school equipment: PAPA is raising funds to help upgrade sound and lighting equipment for the school, so get on board to support this worthy cause.
🎤 $30 per ticket: beverages (alcoholic and non-alcoholic) and snacks available to purchase on the night. Donations also welcome.
🎤 Book your tickets now: https://events.humanitix.com/spx-papa-comedy-night-2025
A fun and inexpensive night out! Bring your friends!
Mrs Sylvia Ulevik - PAPA President
(papaparents@pandf.spx.nsw.edu.au)
Important Performing Arts dates this term:
Forestville RSL Concert - Wednesday 17 September - Intermediate Jazz Band, 6:45 pm - 9:00 pm
Manly Jazz Festival – Senior Jazz Band - Saturday 20 September, 10:00 am – 10:45 am (1st band on the ‘Jazz Stars of The Future’ stage near Manly Wharf).
PAPA Comedy Fundraiser – Saturday evening 20 September, 7:00 pm. Tickets: https://events.humanitix.com/spx-papa-comedy-night-2025
Year 12 Graduation Mass – Tuesday 23 September – Junior and Senior Chorales, OLD Church, 5:00 pm
Year 12 Graduation Ceremony – Wednesday 24 September, Oxford Falls – Intermediate Jazz Band. 7:30 am bus for band members
Elective Music SSO excursion (Years 9 and 10), Sydney Opera House - Thursday 25 September. Information regarding this excursion will be sent home this week.
Mrs Annabel Westhoff - Leader of Learning, Performing Arts
Drama Matters
Year 9 & 10 Drama Excursion
On Wednesday the Elective Drama students were lucky to leave school and head to Sydney Theatre Company to see The Talented Mr Ripley. The adaptation brought Patricia Highsmith's classic novel to life with a captivating blend of suspense and humour, showcasing the complex character of Tom Ripley in a dynamic and stylish production.
The minimalist set design, and contemporary soundtrack added a fresh twist, immersing us in the glamorous yet gritty world of the Italian Riviera. Watching the talented cast breathe life into the story sparked engaging discussions among the students about themes of identity and ambition, making this outing not only entertaining but also thought provoking.
Thanks again to PAPA for supporting the Performing Arts and contributing to the cost of this excursion.
Friday 19 September: Oliver Twist cast & crew meet up in the Sarto from 3:30 pm - 5:00 pm. Please bring snacks to share. We will then head to the old Drama Room for our get-together where there are activities and prizes organised by some of the students.
Thursday 16 October: Year 9 & 10 Drama Excursion to atyp to see Canberra Youth Theatre perform Work, But This Time Like You Mean It.
Thursday 30 October: Junior, Intermediate & Senior Drama performances from 5:50 pm (part of the Performing Arts Week) in the Sarto Centre.
Thursday 20 November: Drama Showcase, a selection of performances from students studying Drama from 2025.
Ms Penny Lindley - Leader of Learning, Drama