A Year of Harmony
What a year it has been in the Performing Arts department at Oran Park Anglican College. From our second-ever school musical to Band Jam, the Choral Festival, studio concerts, student-led lunchtime concerts, the Stage 5 Performance Evening, the annual Capturing Creativity concert, and the MISA Theatre Sports Day—just to name a few—it has certainly been a full and vibrant year.
This has also been the year we opened our new music block (H Block), which has quickly become a creative hub. Students fill the studios every lunchtime from Monday to Friday to play, compose, and listen to music, while Mr Irwin runs his weekly drama clubs in H3.
Our weekly ensemble rehearsals, led by our dedicated Performing Arts staff and visiting tutors, have continued to flourish. Students have tackled repertoire that is both challenging and enjoyable, with each piece stretching their skills a little further. Over the year, our ensembles have grown noticeably in confidence and musical maturity.
We were delighted to welcome Mr Hollis to the Music team this year. A talented pianist (and occasional tenor saxophonist), he stepped in for Mrs Lane during her maternity leave. We are pleased that Mr Hollis will continue with us four days a week in 2026 as our Stage 4 and 5 Music classes expand.
Looking ahead, we’re excited that our Year 7 Drama program will continue into 2026, and for the first time, Drama will also be offered to Year 8. We hope this momentum leads to a Year 9 Drama class in 2027. These classes continue to be led by our passionate Drama teacher, Mr Irwin.
Mr Irwin is also hard at work directing the early stages of our 2026 stage production of The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe. Rehearsals began last week, with students already learning lines and stage positions. More details about this production will be shared in the new year.
Finally, we sadly farewell Mr Miller next week after six years of dedicated service to the College. He has accepted the position of Head of Music at Shire Christian School. Mr Miller has been a driving force behind the growth of our ensemble and tuition programs, and he leaves with our deepest thanks and blessings.
Christmas Carols
Last Thursday, 27 November, our College community gathered to celebrate the Christmas season with a joyful evening of music, dance, and togetherness. Students performed confidently across a range of ensembles, sharing the skills they have developed throughout the year and bringing wonderful festive cheer to the event.
A standout moment of the night was a special presentation of The Nutcracker Suite by Tchaikovsky, beautifully accompanied by three talented ballerinas whose graceful choreography added magic to the performance. Their collaboration with the ensemble created a true highlight that captivated the audience.
Families also enjoyed a sausage sizzle, which added to the warm and welcoming atmosphere and helped make the evening a great success.
A heartfelt thank you to all the teachers and staff who supported the Carols—your dedication makes events like this possible.
Wishing our College community a very Merry Christmas!
Mr Tim Chavura
Head of Performing Arts