Good afternoon everyone,

In week two of this term, our Performing Arts team had the honour of presenting the inaugural Donnybrook Secondary School Production of Disney’s Aladdin Jr, staged at the Plenty Ranges Arts and Convention Centre.

It has been one of the most joyful and inspiring experiences I’ve had the privilege of leading. What made this production truly special was not just the show itself, though it was filled with colour, music, and magic, but the people behind it.

Our entire cast was made up of students in this room. For many, it was their first time on stage. For some, it was their first time back since 2022. And yet, every single one of them stepped into the spotlight with heart, humour, and incredible growth.

Over several months, these students dedicated themselves to learning lines, mastering choreography, building characters, and supporting one another - through long rehearsals, quick changes, missed cues, big wins, and everything in between. They took risks, made bold choices, and most importantly, built a real community.

Backstage was just as impressive. From costume and makeup teams to our technical crew, stage managers, prop and set assistants — every element was run with calm focus and quiet leadership. They are the magic behind the curtain.

To see students from different year levels and walks of school life working so closely, lifting each other up, and finding joy in shared success - that’s what the Arts are all about.

To those of you who came along and watched the performance last week, thank you. Your support, your encouragement, and your presence in the audience meant the world to the entire production cast and crew.

Producing a show like this takes vision, organisation, creativity, and above all, trust; and I could not be prouder of what our students have achieved.

They didn’t just put on a show. They created something that will be remembered - something bold, beautiful, and full of heart.

To our cast, crew, and production team: thank you. You’ve made magic. And you’ve set the stage for many more stories to come.

Thank you.

Click the image to hear from our Head of Productions (Donnybrook) and see some highlights!