In 2019, Halls Head Primary School students will get their chance to shine brighter than they ever have before.
A brand-new performing arts extension program is set to kick off at the start of the New Year, with the program believed to be the first of its kind in the Peel region.
SHINE Stage Arts is a new initiative set to launch at Halls Head Primary School this year in the hope of harnessing and ultimately unleashing the creative minds of students.
The program offers selected students real performance experience, staging full-scale dramatic productions that are rehearsed as part of the normal school timetable.
Halls Head Primary School performing arts specialist and SHINE founder Sian Dhu said the program had been in the pipeline for a while.
"It has been a long-term goal of ours to lead the way for performing arts education in Mandurah,” she said.
"SHINE is a significant step towards achieving this. It gives our arts program a real point of difference, providing genuine performance experience to our talented student community, and without the financial and time burdens to parents.
“Engagement in quality performing arts education has proven positive flow-on effects on a child’s social and academic success, and helps builds essential life skills.”
It’s important to note entry to the program is by audition only, and only a certain number of students can be catered for.
The SHINE stage arts program is not just about grooming divas destined for the spotlight either. It will also focus on other aspects of the performing arts world.
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The program will also equip students with the skills needed to perform backstage responsibilities, ensuring the scheme gives students a very holistic insight into the industry.
It will also encourage performers to take on management, creative and organisational roles in order to produce their plays as independently as possible.
The motto of the program is ‘Together We Shine Brighter’, and this will remain an important touchstone for the program throughout the year as students are continually encouraged to help one another achieve their creative goals.
The SHINE cast will also have an opportunity to share the joy of performance with their community, with initial plans being made to extend invitations to local primary schools so fellow students can watch the performances at no cost.
