Celebrating the Arts at the Boys’ School
Every two years, the Boys’ School transforms into a vibrant hub of creativity for the Celebrating the Arts festival; two nights dedicated to showcasing the rich talents of its students in music, drama, and the visual arts. Across classrooms, courtyards, and stages, families and friends roamed from one performance to the next, soaking in the energy of a true festival atmosphere of food and entertainment.
Night One placed the Middle School in the limelight, their performances unfolding in a constellation of stations. Starting with the skirl of the Pipes and Drums, our newest string ensembles and bands, choirs, spirited drama excerpts, and jazz quartets were available for entertainment, as guests strolled around the premises. Early in the evening, the Junior School drew a large crowd into their shared performance space, where they delighted audiences with a series of well-rehearsed songs. All the Middle School classes then took up the challenge, presenting whole class musical items to a full atrium, drama, poetry recitations and energetic dance. Alongside the performing arts, the visual arts trail revealed striking class projects: skateboard designs, intricate printmaking (with a hands-on opportunity), and sculptural wings that hinted at imagination taking flight.
The Senior Night commenced with a commanding prologue. The Year 7 and 8 Kapa Haka and the Pipe Band performances launched the evening followed by the Performers’ Choir, returning from their acclaimed Wellington Tour earlier in the year, delivering performances that filled JC Chalmers Hall with energy and talent. Senior students guided audiences through an eclectic repertoire, featuring the Senior Strings, Jazz Band, Drama performances and Rock Bands, while embracing the interactive art installations, including the creation of delicate ceramic poppies.
Across both evenings, the campus pulsed with curiosity, admiration, and applause. Students of all ages busking across the campus and sharing their enjoyment of the Arts. A witness of the ingenuity, originality, and confidence of our young artists. With the much-anticipated art auction still on the horizon, this celebration of creativity promises to leave a lasting resonance well beyond the festival itself. Many thanks to all the Staff, and Parent and Friends Association for making these nights amazing.
