PERFORMING ARTS

Term 3 saw a remarkable celebration of the Performing Arts, with staff and students delivering standout performances filled with creativity and collaboration.

Our community witnessed unforgettable moments on stage, in the classroom, and beyond, as McKinnon’s commitment to music and theatre shone through major events, including the iconic Winter Concert and the magical production of Mary Poppins.

MARY POPPINS: THE MUSICAL MAGIC

The Performing Arts department’s major theatre production, Mary Poppins The Musical, brought together over 60 students from Years 7 to 12. Months of hard work, creative design, and countless rehearsals produced a show that was equal parts entertaining and heartwarming. With four talented teachers directing, the cast forged strong bonds, supporting one another through every challenge. The production involved a huge effort from the MAV team, backstage and costume crews, and the support of the school leadership - culminating in performances that charmed audiences and showcased the depth of talent at McKinnon.

Students not only mastered singing, dancing, and acting, but also created a supportive, family-like environment that allowed every individual to flourish. The show was a triumph both artistically and personally: “Quickly, we became a huge family, a family of kind and supportive people,” said Milana Gavrilenko, Year 12, reflecting the positive spirit that pervaded the production.

WINTER CONCERT: A SHOWCASE OF COMMUNITY AND EXCELLENCE

The Annual Winter Concert, held at the renowned Robert Blackwood Hall, Monash University, featured over 620 performers from all year levels - a dazzling reflection of McKinnon’s musical diversity and vibrancy. Months of rigorous preparation culminated in a program that spanned classical to contemporary and multicultural repertoire, with ensembles large and small sharing the spotlight before a sold-out hall filled with proud families, friends, and staff.

This year’s concert underscored the power of teamwork. Backstage, an expert stage crew orchestrated seamless transitions and a polished showcase, with outstanding work from Ellie Adler, Lucy Angell, and Paschal Lee ensuring that every moment ran to perfection. 

Special thanks to music leaders Dmitry Serebrianik, Clare Bugeja, and Zoe Bartholomeusz, for their overall organisation of the event.

There was a tangible sense of accomplishment, pride, and community spirit - hallmarks of both McKinnon’s music tradition and Victorian state school arts.

Well done to everyone involved.

ASSEMBLIES AND SHOWCASES

Assemblies this term took on extra significance as the school community celebrated music and student achievement at both campuses. Standout ensemble performances were delivered by Ovenden Band and Orchestra, as they took the stage under the guidance of Laura Main, Megan Waugh and Clare Bugeja, while our vocalists Jessica Sweeney (Year 11), Jane Wang (Year 9), and Sophia Rink (Year 9) delivered amazing renditions of the National Anthem.

VICTORIAN SCHOOLS MUSIC FESTIVAL (VSMF) 

The Victorian Schools Music Festival (VSMF) saw an impressive contingent of seven McKinnon ensembles participate - a testament to the breadth and strength of the school’s program. 

Each ensemble’s commitment and teamwork were evident on stage, as we congratulate them on their impressive achievements and the dedication required to reach such a high standard.

GIGS ON THE GREEN

Gigs On The Green turned the theatre into a vibrant platform for emerging artists. On Tuesday 19 August, VCE Unit 4 students - Michael Du (Year 12), Bella Schneider (Year 11), and Sabrina Vitiello (Year 11) - took the stage, delivering pieces from their recital programs with great poise. The event culminated with Year 11 students Josh Golembo, Alex Do, and Ben Gorov performing as a trio, showcasing teamwork and musical spirit. 

These lunchtime concerts gave students valuable real-world experience, earning well-deserved congratulations.

VCE YEAR 12 MUSIC NIGHT: A SHOWCASE OF ARTISTRY

On Wednesday 3 September, the VCE Year 12 Music Night stood as a hallmark of excellence. Senior students captivated an audience of staff, friends, and family, presenting pieces from their Unit 4 recital programs. A diverse mix of musical styles and genres filled the evening as students performed with confidence across both solo and group settings. The high standard and expressiveness of these performances reflected years of dedication. 

Thank you to Mr Albanis for his dedication to the students and ensuring their preparation for the upcoming recitals has been a journey of upward projection.

THE MCK RESPECT WALK AND ORIGINAL SONG

This term also featured powerful strides in reinforcing the school’s values. Congratulations to Ben Brown and his students for writing an original anthem for the MCK Respect Walk. Their work promotes equality and kindness, uniting the school in song and purpose, and underscores the role of performing arts in fostering an inclusive, compassionate environment.

IN CONCLUSION

As the term concludes, the Performing Arts at McKinnon Secondary College celebrates not just the successes on stage but the camaraderie, creativity, and culture built along the journey. 

We wish Tracy Videon safe travels as she embarks on her study leave for the remainder of the year. A heartfelt thank you also goes to Tania Kaev and Nick Roney for their hard work and commitment to the music program this term. Their support and expertise have ensured the continued success and smooth running of Year 8 Band ensembles, classroom music and performances.

We want to welcome Naomi Dickers and the return of Megan Papworth and Martin West to the department in Term 4.

The ongoing support of teachers, students, parents, and the wider community continues to drive McKinnon’s reputation as a leading centre for arts education - a place where, support, and collective spirit thrive each and every day.

LOOKING FORWARD

Looking ahead, students and parents are reminded to regularly check Compass for announcements and details about upcoming performing arts events and opportunities.

It is also crucial for families to complete the 2026 Instrumental Music Questionnaires - your input helps shape future programs and opportunities.

Most importantly, students are encouraged to continue practising, striving for improvement, and embracing every chance to grow as musicians, performers, and supportive members of this creative community.

Dmitry Serebrianik

Head of Performing Arts