Performing Arts

DANCE

Dance Academy

The 7/8 Dance Academy students have finished off the year with submitting their choreography assessment. For this task students were required to create their own contemporary routine which communicated an emotion to the audience. Students did this through the selection of production elements of costume and prop. Complex phrases of contemporary movements and a relationship between the dancers were also required to communicate their chosen emotion. This task has enabled students to develop their skills in teamwork, leadership, communication and perseverance.

As the year winds down to a close we are reflecting upon and celebrating all the successes that our first group of Dance Academy students have achieved this year. This team brought home our first, first place from Ipswich Performers Dance Festival for their contemporary routine "Marjorie". All students have developed and improved upon their technical skills and we are now beginning to see some quite advanced technique within the group. Flexibility and strength have also been a focus and we have seen growth across the board as students complete their end of year flexibility testing. All students have performed their final choreography task in front of two year seven classes and we have consistently seen high levels of reporting data with 100% of our students within the A-C range. If Dance Academy is something that you are interested in for 2024 then please reach out to Miss Starkey via email jxsta12@eq.edu.au Please remember that this program runs within class time - 3 x 70 minutes per week and does not require outside of school training sessions. The only additional time that needs to be given up are our Eisteddfod days (5 per year) and our internal event days such as Dance Night and Showcase. We look forward to welcoming our 2024 cohorts into our Dance Academy program!

7 Dance

This term Grade 7 Dance have enjoyed learning some iconic movements from various eras. Through intense research they have collaboratively planned a choreographic routine inspired by the Evolution of Dance stimulus. Their performances entertained their audience with a vibrant display of creativity and dedication. The students not only mastered iconic movements from different eras but also demonstrated their ability to work together to craft a unique and captivating choreographic routine. We hope to see many of these students selecting dance for grade 9!

9 Dance

Year 9 Dancers have finished the year with their choreography task. This piece has been performed this week and we have been able to see the marvellous musical theatre creations that our groups came up with. The created their own routines to a medley of songs which included pieces from "Hairspray", "Grease", "Mamma Mia" and "Cabaret". The Dance curriculum goes beyond mere steps and routines; it encourages students to express their emotions, thoughts and stories through movement. This final task served as a cause for celebration where we got see students sharing acquired skills, creativity and individuality into a single captivating performance. The choreographic pieces that they brought to life spoke volumes about their growth and dedication across this semester.

This year's dance class wasn't just about learning choreography; it was a testament to the transformative power of dance. It taught these young individuals not only about the art of movement but also about resilience, creativity, and the beauty of self-expression.

As the curtains draw to a close on this chapter, the Year 9 dance class stands proud, knowing they've left a piece of their passion and dedication on the studio floor. Their journey through dance this year has been nothing short of inspiring, setting the stage for future endeavours filled with grace, rhythm, and boundless creativity. We look forward to seeing these students move onto year 10 Dance and Certificate II in Dance in 2024 where they will continue to grow and develop their skills in the Performing Arts.

10 Dance

Year 10 Dance students have officially completed their last piece of assessment for the year. They have finished up with a theory exam where they have had to respond to an unseen stimulus. Students have applied their analytical skills to draw meaning from the contemporary routine. We look forward to many of these students continuing onto our senior dance program next year in grade 11.

11 Dance

Year 11 Dance students have triumphed in their written evaluations of professional dance works, marking a significant step forward in their dance education. Students delved into the intricacies of renowned dance works, demonstrating their ability to critically examine and articulate the nuances of each performance. Upon the completion of their exams, the spotlight turned to the next chapter of their dance journey where students are now poised to take on their first Year 12 assessment task – a creative and challenging endeavour where they will learning a highly complex Contemporary Dance routine, displaying not just their technical abilities but also their expressive skills in communicating the choreographic intent of this routine. As the year comes to an end, the Year 11 Dance cohort is well-prepared to meet the challenges and opportunities that Year 12 holds for them.

DRAMA

8 Drama

The year 8 Drama student-devised Children's Theatre scripts are now three dimensional as the class work in ensemble groups to transform the text into high-energy, exaggerated and comedic performances. With engaging narrators, audience interaction and slapstick, these Children's Theatre performers are very engaging with rehearsals that are never short of a few laughs. As the year comes to an end, it has been wonderful for the Drama team to see the year 8 students' collaboration, confidence and creativity develop over their semester in Drama.

9 Drama

Year 9 students are getting ready for their final performance of the year. They have explored the ideas of risk taking among teenagers and the negative vs positive consequences that can from this. Students have refined their acting skills in the style of Realism and developed confidence and team work skills in the process. This semester has provided a platform for students explore the depths of human emotion, creativity and self-expression.

11 Drama

Year 11 Drama and Drama in Practice students had their final assessment for the year, an exam analysing the ground-breaking, "Black Diggers" play by renowned Indigenous playwright and director, Wesley Enoch. The play examines the treatment of First Nations people during WWI, contrasting this with what their lives looked like, if they were fortunate enough to return home. Students effectively applied their critical thinking skills to examine the social and cultural contexts underpinning this exceptional play. Having wrapped up their final exams, the class is now diving into the world of Theatre of Social Comment. Students will explore existentialism through Absurdist plays by iconic playwrights like Samuel Beckett and Eugène Ionesco. This unique journey promises to not only refine their acting skills but also prompt deep reflections on life's absurdities and societal norms. Stay tuned for captivating performances as these talented students bring existential thought to the stage.

MUSIC

7 Music

This term our 4 Year 7 Music classes have been flexing their 21^st Century skills by using a DAW (Digital Audio Workstation) to compose a popular song in the style of their choice. Students have been programming beats, entering midi instrumental parts on a piano roll, sampling pop songs, and working with loop libraries to create music tracks that cohesively support the mood and atmosphere of their own original lyrics, before recording in their own vocal parts.

So far, our talented students have transported their lucky listeners to the beach, to the big city, to the land of dreams, and to opening presents around the tree on Christmas morning. 

9 Music

Grade 9 students are currently weaving musical magic as they dive into the art of composition. B Block resonate with the sounds of creativity as these budding musicians’ step outside their comfort zones, crafting melodies, harmonies, and rhythmic elements that uniquely reflect their individual preferences. It's a celebration of diversity, with each composition offering a glimpse into the vast musical tapestry within our student body. Stay tuned as we anticipate showcasing the harmonious fruits of their labour, applauding their musical ingenuity and the symphony of creativity they bring to our school community.

Instrumental

As Instrumental Music wraps up for another year Mr Ezzy and Mr Johnstone are still blown away by the quality and dedication of our performers at showcase. The instrumental students produced stellar performances, showcasing not only their musical prowess but also their unwavering commitment to excellence. The excitement doesn't stop there as our students have already embarked on preparations for the musical journey of 2024. Their enthusiasm and determination promise even more memorable moments.

 As our seniors approach the culmination of their high school musical journey, they're embracing new challenges. Many are taking centre stage in solo, extension, and leadership roles, contributing to the culture of excellence within our music department.

 Brace yourselves for exciting news! In 2024, we're introducing new ensembles and opportunities, providing avenues for students to explore and showcase their passion for music. This will also include the first strings ensemble of RVSSC. Keep a keen eye on upcoming announcements!

EXTRA-CURRICULAR

Cheer

The Raptors wrapped up their 2023 season with an end-of-year celebration on Friday of Week 7. The team came together celebrating with a pancake breakfast and a couple of games. The team also trialled some higher-level stunts, similar to those that will be showcased in the 2024 season. The new year will bring some exciting challenges for our RVSSC Cheerleaders including increasing the routine difficulty level. The Raptors are en route to their first ever competition season! Auditions for the 2024 Competition Team will be held Tuesday afternoon, 3:00pm-4:30pm, Week 2 of Term 1, 2024 and ALL RVSSC students are encouraged to tryout. An information session will be held in Week 1, Term 1, 2024.

Drama Troupe

The Drama Troupe at RVSSC concluded a stellar year of growth and creativity, evolving both as individual performers and ensemble actors. Their journey included mastering Commedia Del'Arte, showcased in four impressive performances at the annual Showcase. Transitioning seamlessly to realism and sketch comedy, the troupe has made remarkable progress.

As the curtain falls on this successful year, we extend an invitation to aspiring actors and drama enthusiasts to audition for next year's Drama Troupe. Become part of the legacy of excellence in theatrical arts. More info to come in term 1 2024.
Don't miss the opportunity to shine on stage!

Vocal

The Ripley Valley State Secondary College Vocal Ensemble, formed this year, capped off an outstanding 2023 with a lively breakup party. Individual excellence was recognised with awards in technique, commitment, leadership, breakthrough, passion, and performance.

Notable achievements for 2023 include winning a highly commended at the Ipswich Eisteddfod, raising funds at a Bingo Night, performing 8 pieces at Showcase and triumphing at the Jacaranda Festival with a gold award. More recently, the ensemble delivered a poignant rendition of the national anthem at the college's Remembrance Day ceremony.

The college expresses immense pride in the Vocal Ensemble's achievements and encourages aspiring vocalists to audition next year. Keep an eye on notices in week 1 of 2024 for details. Join this dynamic musical community and be part of the continuing success story!

Creative Generation

Nominations for Creative Generation 2024 are now open! After our exciting participation in Creative Generations over the past 2 years, we are thrilled to offer students the chance to be involved in the 20th Anniversary of Creative Generations, in the following categories:

• Dance
• Drama
• Vocal
• Instrumental
• Musical Theatre (Combination of dance, drama, and vocals)
• Stage and Production Crew

If your student is interested in nominating and auditioning for CGEN 2024, please contact Mr Barclay for Expression of interest and nomination information.

Creative Generation—State Schools Onstage (CGEN) gives students, teachers and school communities the opportunity to be involved in a professionally produced, award-winning arena spectacular. CGEN provides students the chance to acquire new skills by working with some of Australia's leading performers in a world-class venue. CGEN rehearsals provide an opportunity for students to display their talents and extend their networks with professional artists.