We are immensely proud of our exceptional Performing Arts program at Patterson River Secondary College. Our students have the opportunity to work with professional and highly trained staff in a purpose-built facility – the Performing Arts Centre. In addition to offering classroom instruction in music, dance, drama and theatre studies, students also have the opportunity to join the Instrumental Program.
Instrumental Music
The Instrumental Music Program provides tuition for students in a chosen musical instrument via small group lessons. Students have one lesson each week with their instrumental teacher. Lessons are timetabled on the school system and are scheduled to take place around learning so that students do not miss important educational opportunities. Instruments are available for hire from the College.
Our music students find learning an enjoyable experience, mostly due to the different extra-curricular activities that they are involved in and the people they meet with similar interests. Together, students form close bonds performing in one of our many bands and ensembles. These include: Senior Concert Band, Year 8 Concert Band, Junior Concert Band, String Orchestra, Senior and Junior Percussion Ensemble, Saxophone Ensemble, Clarinet Ensemble, Brass Ensemble, Stage Band, Flute Ensemble, Choir and our Bi-Annual Production Band. A celebration of the amazing talent of our music students occurs every year at our Musical Soiree, where students perform for our community in the Performing Arts Centre.
School Productions
Patterson River Secondary College has a proud tradition of staging a school production every second year. Each production is a full-scale large chorus musical. All students from Years 7 to 12 are invited to audition for the production with the cast including 80-100 students.
The production orchestra is also comprised of students, as are all other backstage and technical divisions in the production. They are supported by a dedicated team of staff and past students who volunteer their time to ensure the success of the show.
Dance and Drama
Students in all levels have the opportunity to participate in Dance and Drama. Our teachers understand the importance of performance and offer the opportunity for students to take to the stage in both semesters.
Students taking classes in Dance and Drama or participating in lunchtime activities are invited to perform in the Dance and Drama Nights. These are wonderful occasions to celebrate the students’ learning growth and achievement in the performing arts.
Lunchtime groups including drama club and dance extension run throughout the year and work towards performances at these nights.
Dance Extension
Dance extension is a program that is committed to ensuring students have the opportunity to develop strong dance technique, learn a variety of styles and refine performance skills. Students can engage within the program by participating in lunchtime dance classes and workshops to develop their dance ability. Dance extension caters for many styles such as:
- contemporary/lyrical
- jazz
- hip hop
- musical theatre.
Our Dance Studio is purpose built to suit the delivery of dance with full length mirrors, three portable mirrors, separate charge rooms, two professional rehearsal spaces and dance equipment including: Pilates mats, foam rollers, stretch blocks, therabands, balance boards and music docks.
Aerobics
Combining fitness and performance, the aerobics team train at lunchtimes to prepare routines to compete in the School Aerobics Championships. Run by the students themselves, this group have achieved success in competition as well as the rewards of fitness, friendship and fun.