Landlubbers, wenches and buccaneers were treated to an unforgettable performance of Robert Louis Stevenson’s Treasure Island.
Our incredibly talented drama students once again wowed the School community with a lively and moving dramatic performance – this time bringing Stevenson’s classic tale of Treasure Island to life.
From 20 to 22 February, students took to the stage at the NIDA Playhouse, for the School’s biennial Major Drama Production. The story wove a rich tapestry of complex, beautifully flawed characters— ranging from the naïve to the villainous, the young and the old, the rich and the poor — all united by a single, all-consuming goal: the promise that treasure will solve their deepest troubles.
St Andrew’s Cathedral School has long been a leader within the independent school sector in performing arts. Giving students the opportunity to engage in practical theatre making in a professional setting is an important part of the life of the School and the development of our students. The involvement in theatrical productions supports students’ personal growth, through navigating the challenges these projects entail. Whether it’s acting on stage, designing the set or supporting from behind-the-scenes, the group has to learn to work together and overcome obstacles.
“These formative experiences build a training ground for our graduating Year 12 Drama cohorts. They support them in pursuing acting careers in a tertiary context, at Australia’s leading acting schools,” said Mrs Dominique Haynes, Acting Director of Performing Arts.
Treasure Island offered a vivid snapshot of the underbelly of working-class Georgian England. The harsh physical demands of manual labour and the desperation to survive provided endless creative possibilities for building this world on the stage. From the shadowy Admiral Benbow Inn and the bustling Bristol Docks, to the imposing Hispaniola and the treacherous island itself, each setting pulsed with life and aggression, mirroring the characters’ relentless pursuit of gold and the fight for survival.
“As we embarked on bringing this story to the stage, we found that greed was the driving force behind every character’s actions. What begins as a quest for treasure quickly transformed into a haunting reflection of the lengths people will go to in their desperate desire for wealth,” said Mrs Ashleigh Chakarovski, Head of Drama and Director/Producer.
Students at the School can find themselves transformed by participation in our Performing Arts programmes. Success in drama, music and dance requires courage and persistence. Set design, props and lighting also provide an additional opportunity for students to support the production and learn new skills. The energy and dedication of the backstage teams, although not as visible, are equally important to the success of the production.
“I started doing drama in Year 5 and have never looked back. It brings me so much joy and is such a true and beautiful form of artistic expression. But my absolute favourite part about it is the people you will meet. The theatre community fosters some of the kindest and most creative people you will ever meet and is also where I have met all my closest friends,” said Isaac Donlevy, Year 12.
“The cast was full of talented actors and actresses, who all inspired me to work my hardest, and perform my best, and for them I am forever grateful,” said Harriet Loe, Year 8.
With four performances, over 500 tickets sold, 36 brilliant actors, five dedicated crew members and a production team full of brilliant minds, this show was a real treasure.
“What a show! The characterisation, humour and storytelling were all captivating. I especially loved the fact that this production had such high number of substantial characters. It allowed a range of ages to gain the full experience of the stage. I was very impressed with the leadership the Year 12 students showed to the rest of the cast. Well done to everyone involved – especially Mrs Chakarovski and her team of staff and alumni who helped train, support, organise and coach our students right up to curtain fall on the final show. Bravo one and all,” said Dr Julie McGonigle, Head of School.
Congratulations to the wonderful student cast, crew and everyone who supported this tremendous production. Courage, open-mindedness and willingness to work together towards a common goal resulted in an amazing theatrical experience for the audiences. We hope they remember the magic of being part of a St Andrew’s Cathedral School Drama Production for years to come.
