Prep School Celebrates the Arts
This week marked one of the most highly anticipated events of the Prep School calendar and once again, it failed to disappoint. The Week of the Arts, a highlight of the co-curricular programme, is a culmination of the dramatic, artistic and musical endeavours of the Prep School.
Acting Headmaster Murray Robertson said the event was a celebration of all that is expressive, communicative, symbolic, logical, imaginative and ethical. “We place much value on these areas in the making of a well-rounded Christ Church boy,” he said.
The week began with music and literature as the Prep School welcomed musician Simon London and members of his band, Simon London and the Spirits. Year 5 students spent the day in three sessions including a singing and music workshop, art activity and dance workshop. The sessions culminated in a performance for the School combining the three areas.
Boys had a chance to listen and learn from authors in residence David and Christine Harris from Monday to Wednesday. After introducing themselves in Chapel, the two, talented writers spent the week visiting classrooms, running advanced writing sessions, lunching with the Book Club and were guest speakers at the first Year 6 Father and Son Breakfast. Prep School Librarian Mary Hookey said, "Boys and teachers were enthralled by Christine and David's stories and exciting writing activities. These are two talented authors who could turn anyone on to writing." The authors' visit was provided by the assistance of the Parents' Association.
On Tuesday evening, parents and students were treated to a TheatreSports performance; along the lines of television show Thank God You’re Here. Boys from Years 3 to 7 improvised live on stage and battled it out in teams. On Wednesday, members of the WA Youth Ballet led workshops with Years 1 and 4 and in the afternoon, the School was treated to a hip-hop performance by past iMove teacher Eddie ‘Edit’ and the Year 5 b-boy group. There was also a surprise appearance by the Languages Department’s Japanese assistant YuYa, an impressive locking-style dancer.
Wednesday’s Evening of the Arts showcased the artwork and musical talents of the Prep School in spectacular fashion around the CLC Library. Staff, students and parents were impressed the high standard of visual arts on show as well as the impressive musical performances by the Concert and Jazz bands, Percussion and String ensembles, Yahoos and soloists.
The week culminated in the Prep School Open Day, which began with an address by Mr Robertson on The Christ Church Experience. This was followed by morning tea on Walters Lawn, a drama presentation by Years 1 and 2 and school tours conducted by Year 7 students.