DANCE & DRAMA PRODUCTIONS

In addition to our extensive music program, students have exciting opportunities to shine on stage through our major cocurricular annual productions including Cre&tive Dance, the Junior and Senior Plays and the Junior and Senior Musicals.

Whether students prefer to perform under the lights, work behind the scenes learning stagecraft techniques, or develop new creative skills, every student is encouraged to get involved.

These productions offer a supportive environment where young people can build confidence, collaborate with peers, and experience the joy of bringing a story to life.

Cre8tive Dance (Years 5 – 12)

Participating in Cre8tive Dance offers numerous benefits for students in Years 5 – 12. It provides a creative outlet for self-expression, allowing students to showcase their talent and passion for dance.

Through rehearsals and performances, students develop teamwork, discipline, and time management skills. Engaging in Cre8tive Dance fosters confidence, as students learn to express themselves through movement and performance. It promotes physical fitness and wellbeing, as dance requires strength, flexibility, and coordination. Additionally, it builds camaraderie and a sense of community among students, creating lasting memories and friendships.

Students in Years 5 – 12 will be invited to audition usually around Week 2, Term 1 and sign-up sheets are made available on the Performing Arts noticeboard (upstairs in the Creativity Centre).

Recent Cre8tive Dance themes:

  • Circus
  • Space
  • Dancing Through the Decades
  • Heroes & Villains
  • Beyond the Frame

STUDENTS: Years 5 – 12

REHEARSALS: Commence mid-February and students will work towards the final performance in June.

FACILITATOR: Ella McNair

CONTACT: ellamc@mentonegrammar.net

Junior Play (Years 5 – 8)

Engaging in the Junior Play fosters creativity and imagination as students in Years 5 – 8 delve into roles and storylines, enhancing their cognitive and emotional development.

Through rehearsals and performances, students develop teamwork, communication, and problem-solving skills, learning to collaborate effectively with peers. Participating in the Junior Play builds confidence as students gain experience speaking and performing in front of an audience. It promotes inclusivity and friendship, as students work together towards a common goal. Additionally, involvement in the Junior Play creates memorable experiences and a sense of accomplishment for students, encouraging them to explore their talents and interests.

Auditions for the Junior Play are generally held in Week 3, Term 1 in the Black Box Theatrette (upstairs in the Creativity Centre). The audition pack will be posted to relevant year level Teams and Canvas pages and audition sign-up sheets will be made available at the appropriate time on the Performing Arts noticeboard (upstairs in the Creativity Centre).

Recent Junior Plays

  • The Haunted House on Penny Lane Way
  • A Lighter Shade of Noir
  • Alice In Wonderland

STUDENTS: Years 5 – 8

FACILITATOR: Adam Palmer

CONTACT: adamp@mentonegrammar.net

NOTE: Students who are successful in obtaining a role in the Junior Play are not eligible to audition for the Junior Musical in the same year.

Senior Play (Years 9 – 12)

Engaging in the Senior Play for students in Years 9 – 12 provides a platform for deeper exploration of complex themes and characters, fostering critical thinking and empathy.

Through rehearsals and performances, students develop advanced acting techniques, honing their skills in interpretation and expression. Participation in the Senior Play cultivates leadership and organisational abilities as students take on production roles and responsibilities. It also promotes a sense of community and camaraderie as students collaborate to bring the production to life. Additionally, involvement in a Senior Play enhances tertiary study and career readiness, with valuable experience in public speaking, teamwork, and artistic expression.

Auditions are generally held towards the end of Term 4 during lunchtime and after school, in preparation for the show to be staged towards the end of Term 1 of the following year. The audition pack will be posted to relevant year level Teams and Canvas pages and audition sign-up sheets will be made available at the appropriate time on the Performing Arts noticeboard (upstairs in the Creativity Centre).

Recent Senior Plays

  • Black Comedy
  • The Rules of Comedy
  • Clue

STUDENTS: Years 9 – 12

FACILITATOR: Adam Palmer

CONTACT: adamp@mentonegrammar.net

Junior Musical (Years 5 – 8)

Beyond the joy of performance, the Junior Musical for Years 5 – 8 supports students to develop teamwork and cooperation, creating lasting memories and friendships.

Learning intricate musical scores and choreography sharpens memory and coordination skills. The musical setting fosters a sense of discipline and commitment, crucial for both academic and personal growth. Expressing emotions through song and dance nurtures confidence and self-esteem. Inclusivity is promoted as students of various talents collaborate, celebrating diversity. Most importantly, the joy of music and performance instils a passion that extends beyond the stage, enriching students’ lives with the enduring magic of artistic expression.

Auditions for the Junior Musical are generally held in Weeks 7 & 8, Term 2. The audition pack will be posted to relevant year level Teams and Canvas pages and audition sign-up sheets will be made available at the appropriate time on the Performing Arts noticeboard (upstairs in the Creativity Centre).

Recent Junior Musicals

  • Spamalot
  • Shrek
  • Aladdin
  • The Little Mermaid
  • Madagascar
  • Matilda

STUDENTS: Years 5 – 8

FACILITATOR: Adam Palmer

CONTACT: adamp@mentonegrammar.net

Senior Musical (Years 9 – 12)

Participating in the Senior Musical provides a platform for students in Years 9 – 12 to showcase their talents and creativity in singing, acting, and dancing, fostering self-expression and confidence.

Through rehearsals and performances, students learn the value of teamwork, collaboration, and discipline, as they work together towards a common goal of delivering a successful production. Involvement in the Senior Musical promotes diversity and inclusion, bringing together students from various backgrounds and interests, fostering friendships and a sense of belonging. It encourages students to step out of their comfort zones, explore new skills, and discover hidden talents, contributing to personal growth and development.

The Senior Musical also supports students interested in Performing Arts to grow and refine their skills, working with industry professionals. Experienced performers and novices alike will find the experience also enhances communication and presentation skills, as students learn to convey emotions, tell stories, and engage with audiences effectively. It also provides an opportunity for students to experience the thrill of performing on stage, building resilience and the ability to handle pressure in front of an audience.

  • As part of an inclusive program, everyone who auditions receives a spot in the musical.
  • Students who do not wish to perform, but are interested in being part of the show, can nominate to be part of the backstage, makeup/hair, and front of house crew.

Auditions are generally held in Week 3, Term 1 during lunchtime and after school. The audition pack will be posted to relevant year level Teams and Canvas pages and audition sign-up sheets will be made available at the appropriate time on the Performing Arts noticeboard (upstairs in the Creativity Centre).

Recent Senior Musicals

  • Jekyll & Hyde
  • Chicago
  • Mamma Mia
  • Strictly Ballroom
  • Grease

STUDENTS: Years 9 – 12

FACILITATOR: Jamie McCarney

CONTACT: jxm@mentonegrammar.net