Performing Arts News

MARY POPPINS NEWS

 The cast of the 2024 Sandringham College Production of Mary Poppins are singing and dancing up a storm at their weekly rehearsals and they are sounding sensational - some might even say .......SUPER!

The inspiration for the “Supercalifragilisticexpialidocious”movement was co-choreographer Stephen Mear’s partner, who is deaf. British sign language gave the choreographers a base for the spelling of the word. Then, they decided to have fun with the idea and make each letter less literal - something that could be seen and understood from the back balcony and our students have been having a lot of fun learning this and getter faster and faster at it!!!

Another key scene requiring attention to detail takes place in the Bank with Precision and Order ina number that highlights just that- precision and order. Choreographed by Year 12 student Claire Montry the 'Blue' Ensemble have been striking a pose as bank clerks facing the monotony of life without fun!! And 'Red' Ensemble have learnt the song Jolly Holiday now it's time for the choreography!!!

The Mary Poppins season is August 24-30 - tickets on sale at the start of Term 3 - you won't want to miss this outstanding College Production - it's going to be S...U...P...E...R!!

VCE Theatre Studies Students Shine with "The Ash Girl" Production

The VCE Theatre Studies class at our school has been working tirelessly to conclude their semester with a stellar production of Timberlake Wertenbaker's "The Ash Girl." Throughout this challenging project, students immersed themselves in all facets of theatre-making, from the initial bump in to dress rehearsals, technical rehearsals, and performances to enthusiastic audiences. The cohort meticulously incorporated directorial notes and feedback, ensuring a polished final performance. Their efforts culminated in a post-show Q&A session where they engaged with the audience, sharing insights into their creative process, ideas, and intentions. The production concluded with a seamless bump out, leaving the Holloway Road Theatre ready for its next event, a testament to their dedication and professionalism. 

Students Transition to Theatre Analysis with "Wicked" at the Regent Theatre

No sooner had the curtain fallen on "The Ash Girl" than the VCE Theatre Studies students launched into their next unit: analysing and evaluating theatre. This area of study involved a detailed scrutiny of the libretto of renowned musical "Wicked," followed by an excursion to the Regent Theatre to see the Melbourne performance of this touring mega-musical. 

This evening of brilliant entertainment left a lasting impression on the students, who were captivated by the stunning LED lighting integrated into the steampunk-inspired set, the comedic prowess of Glinda the Good Witch, Elphaba's spectacular rendition of "Defying Gravity," and the quirky, creative costumes. The excursion was a resounding success, with special thanks to Amy Porter and Isabella Farrar for their support and participation in this fantastic educational experience.

Year 9 Theatre - SPECIAL EFFECTS make-up with a punch! 

During Semester 1, our Year 9 Theatre Skills students were given the opportunity to participate in an exciting incursion, facilitated by a qualified make-up artist, and one of our wonderful alumni, Saber Tang. 

Focusing on the genre of Tragedy, students considered how theatrical special effects make-up can create striking visual effects. During the incursion, they were able to practically apply their knowledge, using their peers to test and trial different effects in a fun and creative way. They learnt how to construct fake bruising, use fake blood and create the appearance of wounds, developing their understanding of techniques, what tools and products are required and the effects which they create. This enabled students to think about how they might use some of these special effects in their upcoming assessment - an interpretation of a short section of text within the tragedy genre. Student feedback indicated that they really enjoyed the 'awesome' incursion and that they were able to make strong connections to the concepts by 'learning how to apply make-up skills in a practical way.' The class extends their thanks to Saber for coming in to teach them a range of new skills. 

VCE Music Unit 1 Performance Showcase

Congratulations to our 16 VCE Music Unit 1 Students who performed exceptionally well on Tuesday night! It was a great evening with music from Jazz to Classical to Progressive Rock and everything in between! The evening was part of their semester 1 Outcome 1 assessment where students have to perform a solo and ensemble piece for an audience. 

Music Ensemble Night - Soundtracks

Congratulations to all the students that took part in the Soundtracks performance. 

All students from years 7 to 12 involved in the Sandringham Instrumental Music program performing a range of repertoire in our first major performance night of 2024. 

• Beginner Band
• Concert Band
• Choir
• String Ensemble
• Guitar Ensemble
• Big Band
• Percussion ensemble 1 and 2

Celebrating Success: Mid-Year Dance Showcase 

Congratulations to all the students who recently showcased their incredible talent in our mid-year dance showcase! The stage was alive with energy and passion as each performer brought style and artistry to the spotlight.

From graceful ballet to dynamic hip-hop, from elegant contemporary to vibrant jazz, the diversity of dance genres represented in the showcase truly showcased the versatility and creativity of our students. 

We applaud not only the performers but also our dance academy teachers for their hard work and commitment in putting this performance together. 

Congratulations once again to all the performers on a spectacular mid-year dance showcase! We cannot wait to release the theme of our end of year showcase.

Director of Dance Academy: Jessica Mortlock 

Following an exhaustive interview process and amidst a pool of exceptionally qualified candidates, we are excited to announce the new Director of Dance, Jessica Mortlock.

Jessica completed full time training at APO Arts Academy in 2010, graduating with a Diploma of Dance and Certificate III in Musical Theatre. Jess also graduated from The University of Melbourne with a Bachelor of Arts (Psychology), holds an Associate Diploma with the Australian Institute of Classical Dance, is certified in Progressing Ballet Technique and instructs reformer Pilates.

Jessica was a member of Vertical Shadows Dance Company from 2011, performing in principle roles for seasons Release the Stars (2011), On the Rocks (2012) and Parallax (2015). Her involvement in the company led to a Creative Associate/Rehearsal Director position for the 2014 production The White Prince, working with reputable Australian artists, Damien Welch and Teagan Lowe.

Other performance credits include Short Sweet Dance Festival, Kit Watts’ music video How Hard, Twisted Broadway, the Australian Open Ceremony, Melbourne Cabaret Festival and the Melbourne Fringe Festival. She has performed in Magnormos’ Stephen Sondheim triptych, Anyone Can Whistle and worked on Jerry Herman triptych, Milk & Honey, as assistant choreographer. She has also presented her own choreographic work in Short Sweet Dance Festivals. Jessica was cast in the ensemble of CHESS with The Production Company in 2012. She received the Ausdance award for Victoria’s Favourite Female Dancer in 2014.

Jessica now teaches at several of Victoria’s flourishing dance schools, specialising in contemporary, classical, choreography and technique tuition. She is committed to ensuring that young dancers achieve strong foundational technique with creative flare, gain greater knowledge of safe dance practices, whilst encouraging positive mental health in the studio and beyond. Jess is incredibly excited to be stepping into the role of Dance Academy Director at Sandringham College.