The journey of Shrek The Musical Jr. at St Lawrence has come to an end, and what a great success it was. Both Cast Green and Cast Blue brought the swamp to life in two magical performances. I am one super proud Performing Arts teacher as I’m sure you are very proud parents and family members. 

“My highlight was when I got out on stage at the start of What’s Up Duloc & Morning Person, it was super fun because I saw my Mum, Dad and Grandma”  Marcus Yr 4

As your children’s Performing Arts teacher and director of this performance, I am beyond proud of the commitment, dedication and level of enthusiasm from both casts. It is this enthusiasm and willingness to give things a go, turning up to every rehearsal, learning lines, giving up lunch breaks and leading by example, that has been my main drive throughout this whole process. As I mentioned at the conclusion of the performances, we all come with a story. My passion for teaching Performing Arts stems from my own personal story as a young teenager, when I almost missed the opportunity to audition for a role I really wanted to be, and didn’t sign up in fear of what my friends would think. It was my Performing Arts teacher who inspired me to follow my heart and gave me the courage to have belief in myself. This story also resonates with the journey of Shrek and one that our students really took on board. Students found belief, strength and hidden talents they didn’t know they had.  We are very fortunate to have some very young talented and gifted performers, actors, singers and dancers across our school, who had the opportunity to perform and shine together.

It is a highlight to witness the transformations from term one to performance night,  the growth in confidence, belief, teamwork at its best, stepping out of comfort zones and connections being made, or even the simplest of things, like having the courage to stand in front of an audience and enjoy every bit of it.  

So for that alone - for the support for your child's growth, witnessing  their personal achievements and celebrating that with them -  we sincerely say - Thank You!  

“I learnt that I can step out of my comfort zone to gain more confidence” Clare Yr 5

A performance is not the same without a great audience. Thank you for being so supportive and such a lively and engaging crowd, it is something many students mentioned in their reflections. 

 “I felt excited backstage but whenever I was waiting in the wings I felt really nervous. My favorite part was after I finished my scene, the audience were clapping for us and I felt more confident and proud of myself” Lauren yr 5

“My favourite part was Curtain Call, the audience were clapping and we got to sing I’m a Believer as a whole cast” Addison Yr 3

My Favourite moment was when I sang my song “I Know It’s Today” and half way through I held a high note for a long time, the audience started clapping and my heart felt calm” Maya Yr 5

We would like to extend our gratitude to all the families who helped in any way shape or form, in particular the Vanasas family for transporting all our props and sets to and from Thomas Carr College - your support was very much appreciated. Thank you to everyone who supported and assisted Mrs Mel Pedulla with costumes, whether making them or donating. Any contribution, big or small was greatly appreciated.  

“I just loved being a bird, it was one of the best costumes”  Ava yr 3

“We love how Mrs Mel assigned us all a special costume for Freak Flag” - Year 5s

Friendships were made, challenges were faced and lessons were learnt. 

“A highlight was meeting the main characters and making new friends” Dhruv Yr 4

“I learnt that it’s okay to make mistakes, you just smile and keep going”  Scarlet Yr 5

Many students are sad it’s over,  and whilst it may be the end of another production year at St. Lawrence, for many students, it’s only the beginning….

“ …because I loved this experience and performance so much I have applied to go to Acting classes” Leahni yr 6

This will be an experience that will be remembered for years to come. Thank you once again to our whole school community for playing a part to make this whole school production the great success that it was.  

Congratulations St Lawrence. May you all continue to share your many talents and gifts and be proud of who you are. 

My favourite song was the Finale song, because it shows that “This is our Story and what makes us different makes us special and what makes us special makes us strong.” Oliver Yr 5

“We are different and United, We are Us and We are You

This is our story….

In the words of Gingy, 

God Bless Us and Everyone…

With pride and gratitude,

Mrs Natalie Penza

Look out for your chance to purchase the USB recording of the performances or a commemorative programme in Term 4.  There will also be photos displayed around the school but here are just a few: