2018 Captivate shines during spectacular showcase performance

The Captivate Choir lead by David Russell from the Captivate team

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.

Students performing as part of the showcase

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.

Dancers performing on stage

“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.”

The Quaycentre at Olympic Park where the showcase was held

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.

The grand finale

“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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03 Sep 2026
From Facebook
A very warm thank you to all our parents and carers who joined us for our Joey’s Café last night. We were so excited to see such a wonderful number of parents and carers come together, connect and support this initiative. Your presence and willingness to engage in these conversations is a wonderful reflection of the strong partnership between our school and families. We were thrilled to welcome award-winning speaker and author, Daniel Merza, who led us through a practical, thought-provoking session focused on building resilience in our children. Daniel shared three powerful messages for raising children to thrive: - build connection by showing up, listening and investing time - build belief by encouraging effort, persistence and a willingness to step outside their comfort zone - build tenacity by helping children see challenges as opportunities to learn, focus on progress over perfection, and recognise what is within their control We hope you left the evening feeling encouraged, equipped and inspired with some practical strategies to take into your homes and conversations with your children. Thank you once again for making our Joey’s Café such a success. Your involvement matters and we are so grateful for the opportunity to learn and grow together as a community. We look forward to welcoming you back to Joey’s Café in Term 4 for another opportunity to connect, share and support one another.

02 Sep 2026
From Facebook
Our Year Three students enjoyed their excursion to the Australian Museum where they experienced two exciting First Nations led programs. Students explored how First Nations peoples care for Sea Country and learned about native plants and their cultural significance. Our students had the opportunity to try traditional weaving techniques through hands-on activities and games. A great day of learning and connection with Country, culture and community.