Performing Arts

Notre Dame College has a long-standing tradition of excellence in the Performing Arts. Our earliest stage performances were produced by the sisters of Mercy and particularly Mother Ignatius Starkie. Mother Ignatius developed outstanding musical and dramatic programs during the early history of our College, including the staging of operettas and musical performances. Our principal rehearsal venue, Starkie Hall, is named after her.

Theatrical performances at Notre Dame offer many enrichment opportunities for our students. Actors, dancers and singers of all ages can perform in the Year 7-12 College Production and junior actors can learn the basics in the Year 7-9 Junior Play.

College Production

Every year Notre Dame College performs a full-scale musical in July that features students from Years 7-12. This production is open to all students, regardless of their level of experience. There are many roles, large and small, that students can take on. It is an exciting way to develop skills in singing, dancing, and acting on stage or in technical, musical or backstage roles. We are incredibly proud of the positive relationships that are nurtured throughout the production community.

We are very proud to have many nominees and winners in the Georgy Awards conducted within the Goulburn Valley each year. We are also most humbled and awed to receive nominations, commendations and awards from the Victorian Music Theatre Guild at a state level. Most importantly, we are proud of every single student who participates and grows, not just as a performer, but also as an individual.

For more information, you can contact Shannon Orlandi Shannon.Orlandi@NOTREDAME.vic.edu.au

Junior Play

The Junior Play runs during Semester Two. It provides an opportunity for Year 7, 8 and 9 students to perform in the Drama Room to an audience of friends and family. Students have the chance to develop their skills as actors and to learn the process of how a play moves from the page to the stage.

For more information, you can contact Neroli Cochrane Neroli.Cochrane@NOTREDAME.vic.edu.au

Arts Leaders

Our Performing Arts and Music teachers are supported by our 2024 Arts Leaders, Ivy Henderson and Tamara Simpson.

The Arts Leader promotes the participation and achievement in the Arts, both within the College and in the wider community.

Responsibilities include:

• encouraging student participation in the Arts, through leadership and involvement.
• leadership roles facilitating major Arts events in the College such as Productions and Music Nights.
• keeping the College community informed about Arts events via assemblies, the College Newsletter and the daily bulletins.
• coordinating and/or assisting in Arts initiatives /clubs / workshops within the school.