The Captivate Choir lead by David Russell from the Captivate team


Catholic Education Diocese of Parramatta students had the opportunity to shine when the Captivate performing and creative arts program recently hosted its 10th Anniversary Showcase at Quaycentre, Sydney Olympic Park.


The show combined a spectacular musical ensemble of 165 students, backed up by the 1000-student primary choir and 190-student secondary choir singing songs such as One Dream, Come Back to the Sea, Keep your Lamps Trimmed and Burning and River Run Free.

 

 

This was complemented by a dance ensemble of 382 dancers who kept audiences enraptured. There was also a secondary drama ensemble of 90 students and a student ‘spoken word choir’ comprising 80 students from four primary schools.

One of the highlights of the performance was the use of puppetry and props to reflect the showcase’s storyline. The impact of the puppets was dramatic, guiding the audience through show’s theme of ‘creativity’: from the igniting of the creative spark, through to creative play, creative block, creative flow, and finally creative genius. The show’s finale was a stunning performance of Rihanna’s Diamonds in the Sky.


Students performing as part of the showcase


Captivate director Mark Hopkins said that for many students involved, it was their first major public performance.

“Others were consolidating many years of practice, rehearsal and performing, honing their skills for HSC practical examinations in the coming weeks or auditions for specialist post school arts study pathways in the coming months.

“Captivate is the program by which all students, regardless of prior experience or the location of their school, can access specialist learning in the arts.


Dancers performing on stage


“With a constant stream of research documenting evidence of the cognitive and social benefits of arts participation and learning, it is vital that such learning is part of each child’s education.”


The Quaycentre at Olympic Park where the showcase was held


St Andrew’s Primary, Marayong acting Principal Kim McDonald described the show as a rewarding experience for all those involved.

“Students have been rehearsing since February, both during recess and lunch breaks and also at formal off-site rehearsals with other students in the Diocese as well as during the school holidays,’’ Mrs McDonald said.


The grand finale


“This level of collaboration and creativity has provided opportunities for students to express themselves in a unique way. We are so proud of the students and thank them for their commitment, enthusiasm and persistence over such a long period of time.”

 

Written By

Catholic Schools Parramatta Diocese

Catholic Schools Parramatta Diocese
www.parra.catholic.edu.au

From Facebook

  • 30 Jun 2025

    From Facebook
    🧤❄️ Cold and Bare, Show You Care – Boots to Wear! ❄️🧦 This powerful slogan, created by our students, has guided our winter fundraising efforts with Vinnies and what an impact we’ve made together! Through Pyjama Day, the Winter Sleepout, and today’s Boot Day, our school community has come together to live out our faith. These events helped raise awareness of the challenges faced by those experiencing homelessness — especially in winter, when, as shared by local Vinnies volunteers, "our feet feel the cold first." Thanks to your incredible generosity, we’ve raised $1,137 toward our goal of $1,236. Almost enough to provide three full sets of winter clothing to those in need. 💙 Donations can still be made via the QKR! App as we take the final steps towards our goal. We're only $99 away! Thank you for showing your care and walking with us in solidarity.

    27 Jun 2025

    From Facebook
    In line with our Vinnies Winter Appeal slogan, we are holding a boot day to raise some much needed funds. These funds will be used by vinnies to provide warm clothing to people who are less fortunate in our local community. Cold and Bare? Show your care, "Boots to wear!" Wear your boots on Monday!

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