It was almost 12 months in the making but there was nothing that could stop St Patrick’s Catholic Primary School’s biennial musical Cinderella and Rockerfella from hitting the stage.
This year’s production followed in the long line of successful musicals at St Patrick’s Catholic Primary School.
With COVID restrictions and more than 60 cast and crew involved in this year’s musical, this year’s production has been a colossal task for director Jed Morley.
Production manager Tracey Cook who oversaw the musical, said although this year had some difficulties, Cinderella and Rockerfella was the perfect way to celebrate the students' hard work.
Tracey said she was grateful for the support given by Shalom College for the use of such an amazing venue and for the direction and assistance offered by Shalom Performing Arts teacher Kirsty McCulloch.
And St Patrick’s teacher Emma-Lee Donovan once again shared her expertise choreographing the performance.
In addition, other St Patrick’s staff members generously donated their time each week for after-school and weekend rehearsals since auditions last November.
“We have a talented team of teachers who have given so much of their time and themselves to ensure our students have the opportunity to still perform this year,” Tracey said.
“Mrs Amelia Morine (costume design), Mrs Jessica Cullinan (props), Miss Rebecca Lovejoy (hair and makeup design) and Mr Bailey Simpson (assistant choreographer) make up the team of staff members.
“Further support has come in the form of painting sets and making props. This has been made possible by the time and generous donations of Planet Shade proprietors, Andrew and Cathie McInnes.
“The school is also very grateful to Mrs Megan Evans and her daughter Emily, who assisted with costumes and photography.
“It truly is a huge team effort on so many levels.
“All the effort is worth it when you see the delight on the children’s faces and watch them grow in confidence, learning new skills and pushing their own limits.”
Tracey said with the current COVID situation, it had been an uncertain time for all of the cast and crew.
“Luckily, with thanks to the hard work and persistence of the students and staff involved this year’s production of Out of the Ark’s Cinderella and Rockerfella went ahead,” she said.
“While it has been challenging at times, it has always been fun.
“I am immensely grateful to the hard-working team supporting us and so proud of the children who amaze us every day with their enthusiasm and energy.”
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