The Arts

Performing Arts Newsletter: Term 3 2024

Curriculum & Learning

Drama: Unleashing Creativity on Stage

Gilgai Plains Primary School’s drama program continues to inspire and empower students to explore the world of storytelling and character development. From Foundation to Year 6, students have started engaging in exciting drama workshops where they are learning to embody characters, explore emotions, and bring stories to life on stage. This term, students have been preparing for a series of imaginative performances that showcase their skills in drama and storytelling.

Improvisation and Devising Performances: Creating Magic in Real-Time

The art of improvisation and devising performances challenges our students to think creatively and collaboratively. Through workshops and rehearsals, our talented students have started crafting original narratives, developing characters, and improvising scenes that captivate audiences. These performances not only showcase their spontaneity and quick thinking but also highlight their ability to work together to create something truly unique and memorable.

Dance: Moving with Grace and Passion

In our vibrant dance program, students from all year levels have been exploring various dance styles, from classical ballet to modern/contemporary and tap. They've been perfecting their techniques, choreographing dances, and preparing for our upcoming End of Year Performance. These performances are a testament to their dedication, creativity, and love for movement, as they express themselves through the universal language of dance.

Music: Let’s sing!

Music plays a central role in our school community, enriching the lives of students through singing, playing instruments, and performing in ensembles. From learning the basics of rhythm and melody in Foundation to mastering complex body percussion and singing pieces in Year 6, our students continue to impress with their talent and passion for music. Our End of Year Performance will provide the platform for students to showcase their musical abilities and share their love of music with family and friends. Whether you're interested in drama, dance, music, or all three, there are opportunities for everyone to discover and develop their talents in a supportive and creative environment.

Arts Centre Melbourne and ‘The First Call Fund’  Excursion 

On behalf of Gilgai Plains Primary School, I wanted to extend our deepest gratitude to The Arts Centre Melbourne for the incredible opportunity provided through the 'First Call Fund'. The free excursions, including transport, to performing arts events that Victorian Arts have made possible, have had an immensely positive impact on our students.

Experiencing live performances is an invaluable educational experience that opens new doors of inspiration and learning for our young minds. Thanks to your generosity, our students were able to attend these events without any financial burden, allowing them to immerse themselves fully in the world of performing arts.

The memories created and lessons learned from these excursions will stay with our students for a lifetime. Your commitment to fostering a love for the arts and making it accessible to students, is truly commendable and deeply appreciated. The excursions that we attend directly support the Performing Arts curriculum and student learning at Gilgai Plains Primary School. 

Once again, thank you for your unwavering support of arts education and for investing in the future of our students. We look forward to continuing this wonderful partnership and creating more opportunities for our students to engage with the arts. 

The Wizard of Oz! School Performance

We are delighted to announce that this year's highly anticipated end-of-year performance at Gilgai Plains Primary School will be… 'The Wizard of Oz'! 

Our talented students and dedicated staff have been hard at work preparing for what promises to be a spectacular showcase of creativity and talent.

Performance Details: Friday 6th of December (time to be confirmed) 

About the Production: 'The Wizard of Oz' is a timeless classic that follows the adventures of Dorothy Gale as she journeys through the magical land of Oz. From meeting the Scarecrow, the Tin Man, and the Cowardly Lion to confronting the Wicked Witch of the West, Dorothy's journey is one of friendship, courage, and self-discovery.

Our students have been diligently rehearsing under the guidance of our teachers, to bring this beloved story to life on stage. ‘The Wizard of Oz' promises to be a production that will leave a lasting impression on everyone in attendance. All students at GPPS will participate in a performance piece Ms. O’Dowd will be hosting an information session for main cast members and their parents/guardians with a date and time to be confirmed. More details to follow. 

Community Support: We encourage all members of the Gilgai Plains community—parents, guardians, family members, and friends—to join us in celebrating the hard work and dedication of our students. Your support plays a crucial role in making these events successful and memorable for our young performers. 

I am looking for volunteers who can assist with:

1. Making Sets: Help create the enchanting landscapes of Oz, from the Emerald City to the Poppy fields of Oz and the famous ‘Yellow Brick Road’. If you have any carpentry, painting, or creative skills, we would love your expertise!
2. Costume Design: Bring the beloved characters of Oz to life by designing and creating costumes for Dorothy, the Scarecrow, the Tin Man, the Cowardly Lion, and all of the other magical inhabitants of Oz. Sewing and crafting skills are greatly appreciated!
3. Props Creation: Help us gather or create props that will transport our audience to the Land of Oz. Whether it's Glinda's magic wand, the Wicked Witch's broomstick, or the Wizard's hot air balloon, every detail counts!

As we delve into the rehearsal process we are reminded that, 'The Wizard of Oz' serves as a fitting tribute to the creativity, teamwork, and ZESTY spirit that define Gilgai Plains Primary School. We are immensely proud of our students and cannot wait to share their talents with you.

Thank you for your continued support, and we look forward to seeing you at 'The Wizard of Oz'!