Performing Arts News 

The Wolves - Year 12

On Thursday, 26 March the Year 12 Theatre Studies class performed their SAC, showcasing their skills in interpreting scripts and presenting a performance. Each student took on both an acting role and a production role as part of the coursework. 

Throughout the term, students followed a structured process set by the VCAA, which included three key stages, (planning, development, presentation). They maintained a detailed folio documenting their research, dramaturgy, design ideas, rehearsal progress and planning. Students also participated in regular check-ins with their teacher to present and refine their work. 

As part of their preparation, the class worked with Ryan Burjan in the Performing Arts Centre to develop technical skills, including safely rigging lights and operating both the lighting and sound boards. 

For their SAC performance, students selected the edgy one-act play The Wolves by Sarah DeLappe. Parents and friends who attended were impressed by the final production and the students’ hard work and achievement were clearly evident on stage. 

Lauren Heazlewood

Performing Arts Teacher

Musical Futures

As part of the Musical Futures program, our Year 9 music students recently took part in an exciting music production workshop through the Victorian Challenge and Enrichment Series - an initiative designed to extend and inspire high-ability learners. 

Throughout the day, students explored the world of contemporary music creation by capturing sounds from their surroundings and transforming them into original compositions. Using professional recording and editing equipment, they experimented with the same production techniques and digital tools used across the creative industries, including film, television, gaming, podcasting and social media content creation. 

The workshop was a fantastic opportunity for students to think creatively, collaborate and gain hands-on experience in a real-world music production environment. It was a fun, energetic day filled with innovation and discovery. 

We commend our students for their enthusiasm and commitment in making the most of this rewarding experience. 

Margaret Griffiths

Performing Arts Domain Leader

Senior Concert Band - Big Things Concert

On Sunday, the 22 of March, our Senior Concert Band performed to a capacity audience as part of a combined concert with Chelsea Concert Band at Longbeach (St.Chad’s) Anglican Church in Chelsea.   

The afternoon provided an excellent opportunity for parents, family and friends in our musical community to enjoy the talents of our music students and for our students to hear exciting new wind band music by current Australian composers Kara Williams and Dani Maree Ashmore, performed by Chelsea Concert Band.  

Our students represented our College with pride and excellence, not only with an amazing musical performance, but also with their general demeanour, teamwork and professionalism throughout the afternoon.  In addition to performing four of our own musical items, members of our Senior Concert Band also teamed up with Chelsea Concert Band to perform music from How to Train Your Dragon and Wicked as part of the concert’s rousing grand finale. 

Consisting of 40 students across Years 9-12, our Senior Concert Band includes instrumental students on a variety of woodwind, brass and percussion instruments, who participate in weekly rehearsals during lunchtimes on Mondays.   

Chelsea Concert Band are a community organisation comprising of musicians aged from 13-70, with strong links to own musical community here at Patterson River Secondary College.  

Russell Ward 

Senior Concert Band Director, Woodwind Teacher 

Senior Student Success

Laura and Tessa 

Laura and Tessa have both successfully auditioned for the Elevate Training Program at Transit Dance. This highly regarded and intensive program is designed for dedicated young performers preparing for professional pathways in the performing arts, offering specialised training alongside elite coaching from industry-leading professionals. Laura is undertaking the Contemporary Dance stream, while Tess is undertaking the Musical Theatre stream. 

Sienna 

Sienna has successfully auditioned for the Elite Professional Development Program at Patrick School of the Arts. This highly regarded and intensive program is designed for talented young dancers who demonstrate exceptional dedication and potential, supporting them to develop into well-rounded, professional performers. The program also provides a strong pathway towards entry into full-time tertiary performing arts training.  

Sara 

Sara has achieved an exceptional accomplishment, successfully auditioning as a Backup Vocalist for this year’s Victorian State Schools Spectacular. Following a highly competitive and rigorous audition process involving multiple call-backs, Sara was one of only six students selected from state schools across Victoria. Congratulations, Sara, on this outstanding achievement! We look forward to seeing you shine on stage at John Cain Arena in August! 

Lorraine Theodore

Performing Arts Teacher

Victorian State School Spectacular

Our Victorian State Schools Spectacular Mass Dance group has had an exciting start to their journey, with 16 students selected to proudly represent our school in this year’s Spectacular.

They will perform in two shows at John Cain Arena on Saturday 29th August. The group recently attended their first regional rehearsal on Monday, 23rd March, where they began learning six routines under the guidance of industry professionals Hara, Reagan and James. It was a fantastic day of learning and collaboration and students thoroughly enjoyed the experience.

We look forward to seeing their continued progress at the next regional rehearsal on Monday 4th May! 

Lorraine Theodore

Performing Arts Teacher

Lunch Time Activities