Local performers have returned to their schools on a high after starring in the Schools Spectacular in Sydney at the Qantas Credit Union Arena on November 28 and 29.
Students from schools including Narara Valley High School, Terrigal High School and Valley View Public School performed. “Everyone is a star in the Schools Spectacular,” said executive director leadership and learning Ms Jane Simmons. “The Schools Spectacular is a unique and special entertainment event and its success depends on everyone playing their role with energy and enthusiasm. “The creativity and high standard of performances for which the Schools Spectacular has become renowned really shone through this year.” Ms Simmons said this year’s four performances over two days took the 31- year tradition of the Schools Spectacular to a new level. “The exciting digitised lighting and graphics added to the colour and movement of performances,” Ms Simmons said. “Adding further to the quality of performances and the entire show is the growing strength of collaborations with the big names like Bangarra Dance Theatre, Tap Dogs founder Dein Perry, Christine Anu and Schools Spectacular alumni including host John Foreman, the McClymonts, 2014 The Voice winner Anja Nissen and musical theatre star Julie Lee Goodwin. “Our young student performers and those who work behind the scenes get so much from being part of the Schools Spectacular. “It is more than the thrill of the applause of an appreciative audience, they also gain a valuable lesson in contributing their all to the success of a collaborative team effort.” Ms Simmons said the 31st Schools Spectacular again showcased the talents of NSW public school students with a 3,600-strong cast including more than 30 featured artists, a 1,300-voice choir, 2,000 dancers, the Millennium Marching Band, a full 80-piece symphony orchestra and complete stage band. Carefully choreographed to this year’s theme ‘This is Australia’, they unveiled a kaleidoscope of colour and emotions ranging from iconic massed dances fi lling the entire arena through to intimate solo moments spanning the spectrum of genres ranging from rock and hip hop to classical and memorable movie songs.
Media release, 1 Dec 2014
Grant Hatch, NSW
Department of Education and
Communities