The Creative and Performing Arts (CAPA) Department at Merici College has long been a beacon of innovation, imagination, and talent, and this year has only solidified that reputation. Sadly, we farewelled Mrs. Heather Lloyd from our Music Department, but also welcomed three new faces, Mrs. Elizabeth Chase, Mr. Dayne Spencer and Mr. Byron Luck, who have brought a wealth of knowledge and talent to the department.
Throughout the year, our students have embraced challenges, taken bold risks, and came together to create art and performance that reflects the richness of their experiences and the depth of their passion.
This year was monumental for the Creative and Performing Arts at Merici, as our senior students got to experience our much-anticipated overseas arts tour—the first in six years—to New York and Los Angeles. Our students had the incredible opportunity to explore the vibrant arts scenes and musical theatre culture in these iconic cities, broadening their horizons and deepening their passion for the arts.
Performances were a plenty this year for our Performing Arts Students. For the first time, our students participated in Wakakirri, bringing their powerful performance of Shout Out to the Girls to life on stage. Their outstanding efforts were met with widespread recognition and multiple awards, celebrating their creativity and commitment to storytelling through dance. Our senior students displayed talent that was nothing short of extraordinary in their self-directed production of the Tempest. And our MYP 5 students of Music and Dance were thrilled by their excursion to Sydney, where they experienced the dazzling professional production of Chicago.
We were extremely excited to announce in Semester 2 our Musical for 2025. After the success of Alice in Wonderland in 2023, we were keen to keep this momentum going, providing further opportunities for students to perform and build their talents in the Arts. Auditions were held in Term 4, and we were blown away with the talent we have here at Merici. With that being said, we hope to see you all at our musical next year.
We’re reminded that the Creative and Performing Arts are more than just disciplines; they are vital to a holistic education, offering a unique means of expression, joy, and connection. Thank you to all who have contributed to this year’s artistic journey—may the memories and inspiration captured here continue to enrich our lives for years to come.
Curtains down on 2024,
Ms. Ali Fogarty
Creative and Performing Arts Coordinator (currently on leave)
