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.”
Catholic Schools Parramatta Diocese
www.parra.catholic.edu.au
-
16 Feb 2026
From Facebook
✨ Discover the difference, at our School Open Evening! ✨ Families considering kindergarten enrolment for 2027 are warmly invited to come and experience our vibrant learning community. Meet our passionate teachers, explore our learning spaces, and see how we nurture each child’s growth in learning, wellbeing and faith. This is a wonderful opportunity to ask questions, connect with other families, and discover what makes our school such a special place to belong. 📅 See the flyer for event details - bookings not essential. We look forward to welcoming you!
10 Feb 2026
From Facebook
Today we gathered as a whole school community to celebrate Mass, coming together in faith and gratitude as we begin the new year. During the celebration, we introduced our theme for the year, Learning Uplifts in 2026, reminding us that learning has the power to inspire, empower and lift each of us to be our very best. We also commissioned our Year 6 2026 leaders, acknowledging their commitment to serve our school community with responsibility, kindness and courage. We are proud of the positive example they will set for their peers throughout the year. We look ahead with excitement to a wonderful year of growth, leadership and learning together. 💙
Latest News More news
16 Feb 2026
From Facebook
✨ Discover the difference, at our School Open Evening! ✨ Families considering kindergarten enrolment for 2027 are warmly invited to come and experience our vibrant learning community. Meet our passionate teachers, explore our learning spaces, and see how we nurture each child’s growth in learning, wellbeing and faith. This is a wonderful opportunity to ask questions, connect with other families, and discover what makes our school such a special place to belong. 📅 See the flyer for event details - bookings not essential. We look forward to welcoming you!
10 Feb 2026
From Facebook
Today we gathered as a whole school community to celebrate Mass, coming together in faith and gratitude as we begin the new year. During the celebration, we introduced our theme for the year, Learning Uplifts in 2026, reminding us that learning has the power to inspire, empower and lift each of us to be our very best. We also commissioned our Year 6 2026 leaders, acknowledging their commitment to serve our school community with responsibility, kindness and courage. We are proud of the positive example they will set for their peers throughout the year. We look ahead with excitement to a wonderful year of growth, leadership and learning together. 💙
10 Feb 2026
Choosing a School: A Guide for Parents
Choosing a school is a big moment. Right up there with choosing a pram, a first pet or agreeing to sign your child up for weekend sport for the next decade. It’s completely normal to feel overwhelmed, but take a breath. This guide is here to make the process feel lighter, clearer and a lot less daunting, so you can feel confident you’re asking the right questions and find a school that truly fits your child for any grade.
04 Feb 2026
From Facebook
What a beautiful first day of Kindy at St Anthony’s! 🌈 Smiles, brave little steps, new friendships and lots of curious learning moments. We are so proud of how our newest students settled in today. As we begin 2026 with our theme “Learning Uplifts”, today was a perfect reminder that learning really does lift confidence, joy and a sense of belonging for our children, our staff and our whole community. 📸 Here are just a few snaps from this mornings fun! Here’s to an uplifting year ahead — welcome to the St Anthony’s family, Kindy! 💫
28 Jan 2026
From Facebook
26 Jan 2026
From Facebook
Happy Australia Day! How blessed we are to live in this beautiful and ancient land we call home! May the love of our Great South Land of the Holy Spirit continue to inspire and delight us and lead us in the ways of peace, reconciliation, acceptance, justice and joy.
26 Jan 2026
From Facebook
A lovely surprise waiting for our Stage 3 students when they return to school next week. Thanks to our SCG team and to all our parents for raising funds for new carpet in their rooms. Pop in and have a look when school returns. Before and after shots!! 😃
13 Jan 2026
From Facebook
Recently, our community lost a much-loved former staff member of St Anthony’s. We'd like to take this opportunity to remember and honour Ross Howse. Ross worked at our school from 2000 to 2021, serving our community with dedication, kindness and quiet generosity. He passed away after a long and courageous battle with cancer and will be fondly remembered for his laid back approach and the positive impact he had on the lives of students, colleagues and families over many years. Our thoughts and prayers are with Ross’s family and loved ones at this time. May eternal rest be granted unto him, O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon him. May he rest in peace. Ross Howse 07/04/1959 – 29/12/2025
12 Jan 2026
Transitioning smoothly into ‘big school’: What parents need to know
The first day of Kindergarten! It’s a milestone filled with excitement, pride and maybe a few nerves (for both you and your child!). Starting “big school” marks the beginning of a whole new adventure, and with a little preparation, you can help make those first weeks calm, confident and full of smiles.
26 Dec 2025