Performing Arts
Congratulations, Frankie!
I am excited to share the remarkable journey of one of our talented Year 11 students, Frankie, who is currently a youth ambassador for the Melbourne Theatre Company (MTC). This prestigious program selects Year 11 students from across Victoria who have a deep passion for the arts. Throughout the year, these students will attend ten MTC productions, engage with professionals from all areas of theatre production, and build strong connections with like-minded peers.
Since the program began in March, Frankie has had an enriching experience. She has gained valuable insights into the theatre industry and has developed a deeper understanding of the intricate processes involved in bringing a play to life. One of the standout productions she attended was 37, a captivating play that follows the Marngrook cousins as they dream of winning an AFL premiership. The production masterfully incorporated Indigenous dance and relevant political themes. Despite not being a footy enthusiast, Frankie was enthralled by the performance from start to finish.
Frankie reflects on her experience: “The first production we saw, 37, was absolutely jaw-dropping. Following the trials and tribulations of the Marngrook cousins as they joined a local footy team with big dreams about winning the AFL premiership, the play was a work of art, incorporating Indigenous dance and politically relevant themes. Despite not being a footy fanatic, I was sitting on the edge of my seat the entire show. Afterwards, we were given the chance to talk to the amazing actors and learn about their journey to the stage and their experiences in the world of theatre. Not only have we been given the opportunity to deepen our knowledge of the acting side of theatre, but also learn about the immense amount of backstage work that brings it to life. Seeing where the sets, costumes and props are made (head pieces have their own department!), has definitely been one of the best aspects of the program so far.”
We are incredibly proud of Frankie for her dedication and enthusiasm. She has embraced every opportunity to expand her knowledge and skills, and her experiences as a youth ambassador are a testament to her passion for the arts. I would like to extend our gratitude to Haileybury for nominating Frankie for this incredible program and to the MTC for providing such an enriching experience. We look forward to seeing how the rest of the year unfolds for Frankie and are confident that she will continue to shine in all her theatrical pursuits.
Nick Waxman
Head of Drama and Theatre Studies
Music
Winter Concert delight!
On Thursday 6 June in Aikman Hall the Senior School Music Department held our major concert for Semester 1, the Winter Concert. This large ensemble concert showcased a diverse program of highly entertaining repertoire.
The ensembles that performed were Symphony Orchestra, Symphonic Band, Senior Percussion Ensemble, Chamber Brass Ensemble, Haileybury Singers, String Sinfonia, Senior Guitar Ensemble, Viva Voce, Stage Band, Contemporary Singers and Wind Symphony. More than 260 students performed as part of the 90-minute concert.
Prior to the formal concert beginning, several jazz ensembles entertained guests from the hall’s foyer. Many of these groups used the opportunity to perform repertoire being prepared for VCE assessments.
Large scale concert events like Winter Concert are only possible when all involved collaborate with the common goal of making outstanding music while having a great time together. With over 65 specialist instrumental music tutors and more than 1,100 students receiving weekly instrumental music lessons, the sheer mass of the Haileybury Music Department facilitates depth, diversity and sophistication that simply cannot be delivered in smaller programs.
Thank you to our wonderful students, music families, staff and audience for your determination to support the Performing Arts. It was humbling to witness over 750 guests arrive before the start time of 7.00 pm. The enthusiastic applause, recognition of student achievement and goodwill in the room was a highlight of my term.
As Aristotle wrote regarding music, “It gives soul to the universe, wings to the mind, flight to the imagination, a charm to sadness, gaiety and life to everything; it is the essence of order and lends to all that is good, just, and beautiful.” I am 100% certain everyone who attended the concert left with the belief they had experienced something special and beautiful.
Rod Marshall
Director of Performing Arts & Head of Haileybury Music
Visual Arts
LEAP Week
Haileybury’s annual LEAP Celebration Week was a great opportunity to celebrate the Arts with middle school students diving headfirst into various art activities, showcasing their creativity and talent.
Throughout the week, students were actively engaged in different art projects throughout our campuses. Collaborative weaving was a highlight, where students worked together to create a vibrant artwork that will adorn the school walls. Inside the art studio, they explored different mediums like painting and drawing, guided by their teachers.
LEAP Celebration Week is not just about creating art; it is about fostering teamwork, self-expression, and confidence in our students. At the end of the week, Haileybury was filled with a sense of accomplishment and pride in the artistic achievements of our middle schoolers.
Ngaire Thomson
Head of Visual Arts Senior School
Pipes & Drums
Haileybury Pipes & Drums triumph at recent Solo Piping Competitions
Haileybury’s Pipes & Drums students have once again demonstrated their exceptional talent and dedication, achieving remarkable success at the recent Solo Piping Competitions.
Ballarat Grammar Competition:
- Jessie (Year 11): Achieved a clean sweep in the C grade category, securing 1st place in the 2/4 March, Strathspey and Reel, and Hornpipe and Jig, competing against five other pipers. This now allows her to compete in B Grade (one grade below Professional) at the next competition.
- Emmanuel (Year 6): Made it to the finals of the Novice 2/4 March and Novice Slow Air, placing 4th in the latter against twelve competitors.
- Dylan (Year 3): Also reached the finals of the Novice Slow Air, showcasing his skills among twelve talented competitors.
Scotch College Competition:
- Jessie (Year 11): Continued her stellar performance by winning 1st place in the C grade 2/4 March and Strathspey and Reel, and securing 2nd place in the Hornpipe and Jig against fifteen competitors.
- Dylan (Year 3): Consistently advanced to the finals of the Novice Slow Air, proving his skills in the competitive field.
These outstanding achievements reflect the dedication and hard work of our students and the exceptional guidance of our Piping Director, John Young who coached our students on the competition days. Congratulations to all our talented pipers!
Lincoln Hilton
Director, Pipes & Drums
