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.

VIDEO: A glimpse into the amazing Captivate performance

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.”

02 Nov 2026
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30 Oct 2026
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World Teachers' Day celebrations today at Our Lady Queen of Peace! 🏫📒📚✏️☕️🍎🍏 A busy and fulfilling day for all as we enjoyed: - a morning gathering for staff - small gifts for each staff member - morning tea organised by the P&F - afternoon assembly and prayer led by Kindy. Perhaps the most surprising and entertaining part of the day though, included staff participation in the 'Have you got an apple?' game. We are sure the children can update you on the game rules as they watched their teachers play. Some tactical, creative and fierce competition was on show to secure the winning prizes! Congratulations to the following staff members who won the game (with or without bribery!) 🍎 Miss Stevens 🍏 Miss Cleur 🍎 Miss Raffoul 🍏 Mr Aboufarah 🍎 Mrs Elias 🍏 Mrs Buhagiar 🍎 Miss Chahin 🍏 Mr McElhone (unable to claim his prize so this was handed over to the most enthusiastic participant of the day, Mr Vicic). Thank you again to our P&F for generously organising the morning tea for staff and acknowledging the great work our staff do each day. It is a privilege to work in partnership with you, guiding, leading and teaching the children of OLQP. And to our teachers- Keep shining bright ☀️ ✨️ 🌟