Co-curricular Arts News
Dr Andrew Butt, Program Leader - Co-curricular Arts
The term has continued with a vibrant array of performances across the College campus, showcasing the breadth and talent of our Performing Arts program. Week 2 began with the highly successful Marist Jazz Night, where all three Big Bands delivered dynamic and engaging sets. The evening concluded with a captivating performance by The Steve Newcomb Trio, who played a mix of jazz standards and original compositions to a full and appreciative audience.
Last week, the Performance Choir, Chamber Choir, and Marist Voices were actively involved in Mother’s Day breakfasts and Masses across the campus. Their heartfelt and polished performances added a special dimension to these important community events and were warmly received.
On Thursday evening, our Year 5 students made their MCA Performing Arts debut with an energetic staging of Pirates in the Draney Theatre. Their enthusiasm lit up the stage, earning rapturous applause from the audience. Mr Newman praised the production as the best Year 5 musical to date, a strong sign of the exciting future ahead for the College’s Performing Arts program.
Upcoming Events
The performance calendar continues this week with two major events: the Brisbane Youth Jazz Festival and the Cathedral Concert, one of the College’s most anticipated annual showcases.
Brisbane Youth Jazz Festival 2025
- Dates: May 14, 15 & 16
- Featuring: Big Band 1
- Venue: Draney Theatre, Marist College Ashgrove
This festival offers a unique platform for young jazz musicians from across Southern Queensland. Focused on skill-building and collaboration in a non-competitive environment, this year’s event is proudly hosted by MCA in the Draney Theatre.
Big Band 1 will perform on Wednesday, 14 May at 6:10 PM.Performers are asked to arrive by 5:30 PM.
Cathedral Concert
- Date: Thursday, 15 May
- Time: 6:30 PM
- Venue: St Stephen’s Cathedral, Brisbane
Set in the stunning acoustics of St Stephen’s Cathedral, this concert highlights the College’s exceptional string and choral ensembles. The evening will feature performances by:
- Marist Voices
- Chamber Choir
- Performance Choir
- Chamber Strings
- Senior Strings
- String Ensemble
Head of College Tour
- Date: Sunday, 25 May
- Location: Marist College Ashgrove
As part of the Head of College Tour, performances will be given by Big Band 1, the String Quartet, and selected DJ students. Further details will be communicated by College Administration via email.
National Sorry Day Ceremony
- Date: Monday, 26 May
- Time: 7:00 AM
- Location: Teralba Park, Everton Park
The Chamber Choir will perform at the local National Sorry Day Ceremony, honouring the Stolen Generations and their families. All members of the College community are encouraged to attend this important and reflective event.