2021 Performing Arts Camp Report
On Friday 21 May, 75 excited students and staff left the grounds of Penola for the long anticipated 2021 Performing Arts Camp, at Rutherford Park, Blampied. Our Performing Arts Camp was cancelled last year due to the 2020 COVID-19 lockdowns, so for most students it has been a 2 year wait to be part of this unique and exciting camp experience. Performing Arts Camp is in essence two camps in one – Production Camp and Music Camp. Students who attend Performing Arts Camp are passionate about the performing arts – they love playing their instruments, singing, dancing and acting, and for the whole weekend, students live and breathe the performing arts. They love being with other students who have these same interests, and, in the process, they make new friendships too.
We arrived at Rutherford Park just after 4pm on the Friday. We had a brief camp meeting, moved our luggage to our cabins and went straight into rehearsals. Each morning, after breakfast, students and staff participated in a vocal warm up - an a cappella sea shanty, with full gusto, energy, and foot stomping! Throughout the weekend, the Junior and Senior Voices and Senior Concert Band worked tirelessly on new repertoire in preparation for upcoming concerts, and the Production Team worked on blocking scenes, learning scripts, learning dance numbers and sewing costumes. During breaks, some students continued to play their instruments, sing and dance, whilst others soaked up the beautiful weather and wonderful country landscape.
Performing Arts Camp would not be complete without our annual Red Faces on the Saturday night. This year, students performed hilarious comedy acts and displayed their talents with their music, drama and dance performances. We closed the camp on Sunday with a concert at the campsite, showcasing all our efforts and hard work over the weekend. It was truly amazing to hear each ensemble and to see how much was achieved over just one weekend.
The 2021 Performing Arts Camp was, without a doubt a most rewarding and memorable experience for everyone involved. I want to thank and congratulate all our students for building such a wonderful community and for making the camp a friendly, supportive and unforgettable experience for all. A big thank you also to all the staff who attended the Performing Arts Camp - thank you for your time, efforts, and enthusiasm in the lead up to and throughout the whole camp experience.
We were hoping to showcase all that we achieved on camp at our Performing Arts Variety Night, which was to be held on Wednesday 26 May (3 days after the camp). However, due to COVID-19 restrictions and lockdowns we have regrettably postponed this concert to a later date.
