Performing Arts Performing Arts
GIG (Guys in Groove)
T
he dance year began in late February with a lunchtime break-dance demonstration by two exciting young b-boys. Edit, a top 20 finalist from the television series, So You Think You Can Dance, and fellow crewman Mess, an Ms Ruth Bott Performing Arts Coordinator accomplished breaker from Lille, France, performed in front of the senior boys. Together they performed a mesmerising array of tricks and sequences that left the large throng of onlookers both impressed and interested in the ensuing dance season. As a result of the breaking demonstration, many boys in Years 8 to 12 attended workshops run by Ms Bott and Edit held early on Wednesday mornings. These sessions were designed primarily to enhance student skill levels, while also helping to determine those most interested in joining GIG. After a series of sessions, ten boys were selected to perform a short breakdance piece for the Quarry Amphitheatre Concert. By late Term 1, it was evident the early morning practise sessions were helping the boys develop new skills and an appreciation for the art of breaking. With the onset of Term 2, work began on the year’s major dance work, Daily Break, to be performed by 16 boys at the Catholic Performing Arts Festival. The piece, choreographed by Ms Bott and Edit, began with boys exploring a world consumed by synthesis and conformity, where people are “trapped” in lives of monotony. The boys later ‘break’ from this daily grind to
dance, and in doing so, challenge society’s expectations, living what they love. A day before the festival performance on Tuesday 5th August, John Robert Gallagher performed a contemporary Aboriginal dance for the NAIDOC week assembly. This piece, choreographed by Ms Bott and John, traced John’s story immersed in the elements of the earth. The breathtaking performance was a testament of the strength and lyrical nature of John’s dance and character. The thousand boys watching did so with the utmost respect and appreciation. John spoke about many of the staff and students approaching him with words of celebration following the performance. This was a transforming experience for many members of the school community, and particularly for John. The Catholic Performing Arts Festival on Wednesday August 5th saw the GIG members give the most thrilling performance. With solos by Liam Green, Bodie D’Orazio, Robert and Andrew Hortin, the 16 dancers gave a dynamic performance on the Perth Convention Centre stage. The seven minute routine featured the most challenging choreography, and if the adjudication report is an indication of success, the boys’ dancing and expression were spectacular. Such was the impact of the dance piece, that the boys received a perfect score and an Honourable Mention. Edit and Ms Bott were truly excited about the performance given by the boys. A lasting impression will always be the opening scene, as the theatrical lights proclaimed the 16 dancers in their stunning white costumes, stripy long socks and flame red boxes. Thank you to Jo Rayner and Lydia Bordoni for assistance with the sewing of the dramatic costumes. GUYS IN GROOVE (GIG) Back Row: Jamie Andrawes, Robert Hortin, Adam Taylor, Bodie D’Orazio, Andrew Hortin Second Row: John Robert Gallagher, Nestor Zimmermann, Michael Hortin, Timothy Rayner, Liam Green, Ms Ruth Bott (Director) Front Row: Mitchell Dudgeon, Joseph Miocevich, Julian Bordoni, Matthew Hortin, Patrick Di Nardo, Andrew Porteous, Ethan Sumich Absent: Xavier Clarke
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