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

03 Apr 2026
From Facebook
Today on Good Friday, we pause to reflect on the deep love and sacrifice of Jesus on the cross. This sacred day invites us to slow down, to reflect, and to embrace the hope, forgiveness, and faith it represents. As we remember the meaning of the cross, may we be filled with peace and gratitude. Wishing our St Anthony’s community a blessed and reflective Good Friday.

02 Apr 2026
From Facebook
Today our students embarked on a meaningful Holy Week Visual Pilgrimage ✝️🌿, taking time to pause, reflect, and connect with the significant events of this sacred journey. At each stop, students explored a special moment of Holy Week, deepening their understanding through prayer, discussion, and reflection. From moments of celebration to times of sacrifice, they thoughtfully considered the importance of each event and its message. It was a beautiful opportunity for our students to slow down, engage spiritually, and walk together through the story of Holy Week in a meaningful and memorable way.