he Arts Learning Area has made significant progress in the first 4 weeks of term 3. Jessica Harrison has recently joined the Arts team, bringing her expertise to teach various subjects and year levels. As mentioned last week, Toola Strachan and Matthew Taylor are both dividing their teaching responsibilities between the Technology and Arts Learning Areas. All three have made valuable contributions to their respective teams.

Staff have been actively involved in the recent Careers expo, providing students with important information about their class options for the following year. Many members of the staff, student cohort, and our community had the opportunity to witness the first of two school productions in week 2 of this term, "The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time." In addition, Damascus Ensemble students participated in a Music camp last week, where they enhanced their musical skills.

The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night- Time

The play The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time comprised of a small ensemble cast of students from years 10 through to 12 and employed dynamic use of soundtrack, sound effects, projection and lighting to enhance the world of the lead character. 

The rehearsal process was always quite challenging as we sought to create in each scene the appropriate level of reality versus the theatricality. The exciting immersion into the life of Christopher Boone provided a great opportunity for student actors to explore a range issues that are presented within this dramatic yet heart-warming piece of theatre.

The eagerness, energy and enthusiasm of the performers and what they brought to rehearsals and the final performances was nothing short of inspiring. With two productions on the go this year and both being rehearsed simultaneously the Performing Arts department is forever grateful for the fantastic creative team at Damascus that supported us. These individuals made up of staff, current students, alumni and family members all gave so selflessly to make this production the best it could be.

 This play tackled many aspects of life that aren’t usually seen or depicted in a secondary school show. We hoped that by highlighting the life of a single person and their unique challenges, we did justice to those whose stories are not always heard. 

Based on the feedback received over the season the production was successful and the cast and creative team should be proud of their efforts.

Music Camp- Rutherford Park Country Retreat

Once again Damascus Ensemble students have ventured to Music Camp! This year we are lucky to have extended our stay from one night to two-nights. Forty students from Junior and Senior singers, Senior Rock Band, String Ensemble and the Murnong Concert Band were accompanied by 8 staff to Rutherford Park Country Retreat for three days of rehearsal, performance, music games, bush dancing, fun with friends and great food. Many students who participate in this camp learn an instrument as part of the Damascus Instrumental Co-Curricular Music Program. Others have committed their time to the ensembles such as the Vocal Groups just because they love music and want to be a part of a larger musical community within the school. Music is for everyone!