Arts & Enrichment

Production 2025 - Wizard of OZ

The Wizard Of Oz takes to the stage...

Wow!  What can I say!  Last week, all our 5/6’s overcame their fears, left their inhibitions at the stage door, and presented the most professional, awe-inspiring production of ‘The Wizard of Oz.’  The hours and hours of hard work, the lunchtime rehearsals, the homework that Mrs Sexton set was all more than worth it.

Every single performer must be so proud of their own performances, and not only that, but their support of each other and their teamwork.  I promised even the most doubtful students, those who originally were like “Production…no way!”, happy memories, fun, laughter and something that could be ticked off the bucket list of life.  I think I kept my promise.  67 smiling faces, 67 cheers on closing night, 67 stellar performances no matter whether a lead, an Ozian, Winged Monkey, Munchkin, Poppy, Winkie or Tree.  No matter whether in the black and white world of Kansas, or the colourful fantasy world of Oz, each student brought all they had to the stage for our two performances.

The boys loved checking and fixing their green moustaches, the Munchkins danced their hearts out in their colourful attire, the poppies and snow took us beautifully to the wonderful world of Oz and the Ozians streamed onto the stage with enthusiasm and energy.  The Wicked Witch scared us half to death, both Dorothys brought smile and tears to our faces with their emotive songs and dances, the Winged Monkeys attacked with all their might and the precision of the Winkies resembled a well-trained army.  The individual students who assisted with the choreography of their dances, Scarecrow and Tinman, shone on stage.

I could not be prouder of every single student that took to the stage.  You surpassed my expectations and have left me with such happy memories to take away from our time together this year.  I have received nothing but positive feedback, from audiences, parents, and the Capital Theatre.  Some could not believe that this cast was only Year 5 and 6’s because the professionalism and talent shown was so immense.  The Capital Theatre techs have passed on their thanks for being such a well prepared, respectful group of young people who made their job so easy.

Thank you to all the staff who supported on the journey, but especially on the days and nights at the theatre to make my task so much easier and more enjoyable.  A huge shout out to all the parents who assisted in any way, whether it be transporting sets, doing hair and make-up, or bringing us a coffee when we needed. It all ran like clockwork.

I have so much more to say but I will save that for another time.  I am so passionate about performing arts in primary schools, and experiences such as these teach so many skills for the future, develop confidence in our young people, and support and challenge our students to be the best people they can be in life.  Productions allow our arts students to share their unique and beautiful talents with you all and encourage growth in every student.  I have been so fortunate to follow the arts journey of our 5/6’s throughout their time at St Joseph’s and celebrate this momentous performance with them.

Below are a few of our happy snaps.

Thank you.

Claire Sexton (Performing Arts)