2018 Captivate shines during spectacular showcase performance

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.

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.

“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.”

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.

“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
www.parra.catholic.edu.au

Facebook

27 Oct 2026
From Facebook
Today, our Year 5 students had the privilege of celebrating Grandparents’ Day with the residents of Woodberry Village. 💛 As part of their Faith in Action, this was a wonderful opportunity to connect with our local community, share meaningful moments and bring joy to the residents. A beautiful reminder of the importance of kindness, connection and service to others!

23 Oct 2026
From Facebook
⚽🧦Kicking Goals for Socktober!*🧦⚽ Today, our St Paul’s community came together to celebrate Socktober and support children in Malawi!💙🌍 Our students participated in a range of fun and meaningful activities, including creating sockballs, writing prayer cards filled with messages of hope and taking part in soccer challenges. Through these activities, students learnt how small acts of kindness and generosity can make a big difference in the lives of others. We are so proud of our students for embracing the spirit of faith in action and showing compassion for children and communities around the world. A HUGE thank you to our wonderful school community for your incredible generosity. Together, we have raised over $2,000!🎉 Every donation helps support the important work of Catholic Mission and brings hope to children and families from Malawi. 💛⚽️