Library, Clubs & Activities 

Y9 Theatre Takes on the Climate Challenge through the Malthouse Theatre's Suitcase Series

Theatre is not just a spotlight on a stage; it's a powerful platform for dialogue and change. This past term and a half, our Year Nine theatre class experienced this firsthand as they took part in an extraordinary initiative - the Malthouse Theatre's Suitcase Series. With dedication and creativity, our students tackled one of the most pressing issues of our time: climate change.

This initiative gave our students a professional script as a starting point for their creativity. This year, the script in question was "Atlantis" - a compelling narrative connecting the legend of a sunken city with the looming plight of Pacific islands in the face of climate change, penned by the talented Pacifica playwright, Chanelle Macri.

From the outset, the students immersed themselves in a world where the stage became a canvas for their thoughts on environmental responsibility. They grappled with weighty questions: Who is to blame for climate change? Which communities are most affected? Who should step up to solve it? These questions weren't just academic; they were the seeds from which our students' theatrical creation grew.

Over the term, the students developed an array of stagecraft skills. Playbuilding became the bedrock of our sessions as we explored different methods of storytelling. The students also dabbled in the art of improvisation, which honed their ability to think on their feet and connect with their fellow actors - a skill as valuable in life as it is on stage.

Crafting a script was just one piece of the theatrical puzzle. Our students also undertook the ambitious task of scoring the music for their performance. Witnessing their compositions come to life, intertwining with their script, was nothing short of inspirational and many of the other schools commented on the sophistication and raw emotion which the original music brought to the show.

The resulting twenty-minute piece was an eclectic mosaic of genres. It had the bite of satire, the dynamism of a musical, the distancing effect of Brechtian performance, and the allure of a high fashion catwalk. This mix not only showcased the versatility of our students but also demonstrated their ability to engage an audience through varied theatrical forms.

When the day arrived to perform their adaptation, the students traveled to the city armed with nothing but their props in a suitcase. Their energy was palpable as they took to the stage, presenting their unique vision to their peers from other schools. The performances were as diverse as they were thought-provoking, reflecting the hope and anguish of young minds engaging with a complex issue.

The afternoon brought another highlight - watching the original "Atlantis" production, performed by professional actors. It was a treat for the students to see their source of inspiration brought to life by experienced artists. The post-show Q&A with Chanelle Macri offered a rare opportunity for our students to delve deeper into the themes of the play and the process of writing for theatre.

The Suitcase Series has been more than a theatre project; it has been a collaborative journey. While not all students may pursue drama in their future, the soft skills they've acquired - teamwork, creativity, empathy, critical thinking - will undoubtedly serve them well in any path they choose.

Their performance was a poignant reminder of theatre's potential to influence and educate. I am immensely proud of what our students have accomplished, and I am confident that the echoes of their voices, their commitment, and their passion for addressing climate change will resonate far beyond the stage.

Thank you, Year Nine theatre class, for your hard work, your vision, and your willingness to confront one of the most significant issues of our generation with such vigour and imagination. The curtain may close on your performance, but the conversation you've ignited will surely continue.

By Mr. McKinna, Year Nine Drama Teacher

The year 7 Greek class attended an excursion to Nikos Cafe in Fairfield(renowned spot for Greek food and specialty cakes). It was intended to immerse students in the Greek language and culture beyond the classroom. Our students practiced greetings and ordering in Greek as well as sampling traditional sweets.

Thornbury H.S students were complimented on their efforts to use the Greek language, their enthusiasm and exceptional behavior by both patrons and staff of Nikos.

A message from management: "Ms Liapis, thank you again for today.I hope the kids loved being here as much as we loved having them"

A wonderful excursion experienced by all!

From the Library