Sixth form, lasting just two years, may at first glance appear a brief moment in the lives of students, a halfway house between school and university. And yet, many people looking back later in life consider those two years to be some of the most memorable and enjoyable of their lives. For a large number, the reason for this is simple: community (something the college emphasizes a great deal on and a word you’ll hear ample times within this article)
A great many sixth forms organise events that bring together the student community. However, at Saint Aloysius, the annual soiree is characterised by its accessibility to the largest number possible. It is truly a collective effort. No matter their skill, each student is welcome to contribute to the performance in a way that maximises their capabilities. It is this collaborative approach that makes the show stand out and explains its consistently high-quality year in, year out.
The Musical
Soiree, perfected over several months by a talented cohort of students and staff members, is broken down into two parts: the musical performance and a number of student-devised and developed group acts. This year’s musical is the Disney classic Beauty and the Beast; its directors have chosen a shortened, yet faithful interpretation – complete with all the glamour and richness that you’d expect from the fairy tale that nonetheless offers a number of unexpected twists and turns along the way. If that wasn’t enough, the musical will also be accompanied with a live orchestra throughout the entire show! For a sneak peek, check out the teaser video and keep up to date on the Soiree Facebook & Instagram page.
Items
But of course, as the saying goes, different strokes for different folks. The items-half of the spectacle then offers an innovative mix of live music, dance, acting and comedy drawing on a diverse range of influences that are sure to raise a few eyebrows here and there, albeit in a good way. This diverse range of talent ensures that anyone can come along with their families and appreciate a truly professional theatrical production. In fact, if it wasn’t for the incessant emphasis being made on the fact that students do everything, I’d be the first to bet you wouldn’t have the slightest clue.
Crew & Committee
You thought we weren’t going to mention these guys above right? Nonsense. In order for these creative skills to translate into the high-quality production you the audience will be presented with, work (and countless hours of it) must be carried out relentlessly and with unwavering consistency and dedication by the people behind the scenes, the Crew and Committee. Their role is to bring every individual element of SAC Soiree into one synchronous symphony showcasing the Aloysian spirit. From the moment the two are chosen, work begins to build up, becoming increasingly intense as production week approaches, and does not end until the week after the show. Asked to describe the sheer amount of energy that students put into this, Jake Bonello, a member of the Crew directing team could easily testify about the work that crew had to undertake this year, but like so many others affirmed that the experience of it all trumps all difficulties by a significant distance; “Its been a wonderful experience with many people giving their whole heart for the show and we all hope that our hard work blooms in this spectacle”
Proof?
Lots of pretty words have been said in this article, but take a look at the digits and you’ll be no less impressed. Year after year the college’s sizeable theatre is fully booked for 4 consecutive nights. This year is proving to be no different, as 3 out of 4 nights sold out practically immediately following the online ticket launch, with limited places being left on the fourth and final night..so tap here to get yours;)
#BeOurGuest
Written by: Gianluca Vella
A Bird's Eye View 