Tuesday night, 22 September, was the night of nights for the students and staff of St Anne’s Catholic College as they held the long-anticipated showcase featuring the artistic performing abilities of the students to Temora at the memorial Town Hall. This was the 29th showcase with the first one being presented in 1997 and two of the highlights were the St Anne’s Band and the newly formed Pub Choir. There were plenty of familiar musical memories and a strong variety from AC/DC, Grease, Michael Jackson and many more. St Anne’s Catholic College principal, Louise Grant, said that this is the favorite time of the year for students and staff as it gives the students a chance to shine. “We know about Temora being so strong in the sport, but I think we underestimate the talent we have here in Temora in the arts,” Ms Grant said. “Showcase is an opportunity to really showcase that talent, give those students the chance to shine, and I believe that every year we're managing to give more and more opportunities to our students who are interested in the creative and performing arts. “Every single child perform, when new students join the school and we tell them about showcase, they sometimes say, oh no, I'm not going to do that. “But very quickly they get swept up in the enthusiasm and the other students explain this is part of what we do here. “It's a very strong part of our culture and before you know it, they're up on stage with the best of them.” Ms Grant is from a performing background, in dance, so this event is very close to her heart as it gives the opportunity for students to dance, sing and act exploring the artistic side of their personalities and gaining confidence. Temora Shire mayor Rick Firman was one of the special guests of the evening and said that it's a terrific event. “You look at the time and the effort that's gone into rehearsals, to the performances, to the costumes, the music,” Cr Firman said. “It's a real community effort and I just think it's great to see our young ones actually going outside their comfort zone and giving us all a big lift.” Temora’s Sacred Heart Parish priest Father Alex Osbourne said he had been looking forward to showcase all year. “It's always wonderful to see the full involvement. Every student in the school, dancing or singing, being a part of it,” Fr Osbourne said. “It's great to see education is not just about hitting the books, but it's about forming your character, building your confidence, getting involved, making memories, building friendships.”
