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

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12 Aug 2026
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This morning, we gathered as a school community to celebrate Mass and the Rite of Baptism. Congratulations to the students from our school and their siblings, who received the Sacrament of Baptism today. We feel truly blessed to have shared in the special and joyful occasion with you. May God continue to guide and bless each of you as you grow in faith, hope and love. We also extend our sincere thanks to Father Andrew for leading this special mass and for guiding our school community in faith with such warmth and care. A heartfelt thank you to Dr Nicholas Ng for leading our choir and to all the students who sang so beautifully, helping to make this celebration even more meaningful.

08 Aug 2026
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Today we celebrated our wonderful Principal, Mrs Yager, on World Principal Day! We would like to thank Mrs Yager for her incredible dedication, positivity and the care and love she brings to our school each day. We are so lucky to have you Mrs Yager 🌸 Thank you for all that you do for us 💕