Performing Arts
I am still on a high after hearing Li Cunxin, author of Mao’s Last Dancer and currently Artistic Director of Queensland Ballet speak on Wednesday to about 44 students from Years 3 to 11 about his childhood; being brought up in a large, loving but very poor peasant family during the Cultural Revolution, the rigorous training and hardships at the Beijing Dance Academy, his defection to the US and meteoric rise to fame as one of the greatest ballet dancers in the world. What struck me most was his persistence, work ethic, his unswerving belief that there was more to life than what he was experiencing and once given an opportunity he put his heart and soul into making the absolute most of it that he could. His lessons of confronting shortcomings and fears, treasuring every opportunity no matter how small, keeping a positive mindset and a strong work ethic resonated throughout. His desire to live life with a difference, to have a positive effect on society and give back – not only to dance well, but to inspire certainly rang true today. Thank you to Mrs Shenaiya Day for organising the event and to the Performing Arts Support Group for generously contributing to the funding.
Musical 2022 – Boys needed!
I am also very excited to announce the musical production for 2022 will be Mamma Mia! – that fabulous, fun show with all your favourite ABBA songs and more! Information about auditions, rehearsals and performances is in the Music section of this Newsletter. We will also be requiring boys for the Male Leads and Ensemble roles (there are some great male roles in this show!). If you have any boys currently in Years 9 to 11 who may be interested in auditioning, please contact Ms Gladys Uy musicadmin@pymblelc.nsw.edu.au for all the information. Auditions will be via video submission due to COVID-19 restrictions and are due on Friday 8 October (Week 1 Term 4)!
Online Dance Packages for Fun Holiday Activities
We are very excited to launch our inaugural online Dance packages, as a fun holiday activity if the children get bored over the break and haven’t anything to do! For those who haven’t danced before they can dip their toes in and try a variety of styles, while there are also more advanced levels for those with dance experience. Go to the Dance Section for details and information on how to purchase these.
Finally, wishing you all a restful holiday break and my sincere congratulations to all the Co-curricular Performing Arts staff and students for their determination, hard work and perseverance to make online learning enjoyable, engaging and meaningful.
Mrs Sabina Turner
Director of Co-Curricular Performing Arts
