Newhaven College’s Junior School students shone on stage during the performance of Brain’s Trust in September.

Written, produced and directed by College teachers Nina and David Prideaux, the production at the Wonthaggi Union Community Arts Centre was spectacular. With 215 Prep – Year 4 students on stage, bringing this show together as a professional-looking production, was remarkable.

The show was an entertaining and heart-warming journey to find a young girl’s self-esteem and qualities she has hidden from herself. The adventures of Zoe, played by Ella Herbert, took her on a journey to meet groups represented by each year level, including Excellence, Honesty, Forgiveness, Respect, Responsibility, Optimism, Community and Joy. All these principles are reflected in

Newhaven College’s own values, helping students to become thoughtful, caring and brave.

Staff, students and parents worked conscientiously to create the final production. Nina, David and many Junior School staff worked tirelessly all term to bring the show together. The students rehearsed through lunchtimes and after school to learn all their lines and songs. Junior School parents generously volunteered their time organising props and costumes. Anyone who witnessed the show was amazed at the high level of acting and singing abilities the students brought to the stage.

The sets were created by Ben Stein, Tony Kellett and the students in their VET Building and Construction class. The sets certainly supported the professional image of the show. The live music, performed by College staff, completed the overall performance with style.

Ralph Arceo, Head of Junior School, was the first to congratulate the students on their performance “To see the students perform with energy, enjoyment and confidence is a credit to all of us,” he said.

“Thank you to all the family and friends who gave encouragement and supported the students during the matinee and evening performances.”