A MUSICAL that showcased the students and the story of Saint Brigid was performed last week in celebration of St Brigid’s Catholic Primary School’s centenary.
Special guests, including priests from the Ipswich Catholic community and representatives from the Brisbane Catholic Education Office joined parishioners, past pupils, teachers, past principals and school families for the sell-out production.
As the audience watched and listened, the story of Brigid’s life unfolded.
She was born in 450 and spent her early life cooking, cleaning, washing and feeding the animals on her father’s farm. She lived during the time of St Patrick and was inspired to become a Christian by his preaching and her own belief in God.
When Brigid turned 18, she stopped working for her father who wanted her to find a husband, but Brigid had decided that she would spend the rest of her life devoted to God by looking after the poor, sick and the elderly as well as educating children.
Brigid founded many convents throughout Ireland, the most famous being in County Kildare. It is understood that this convent was built beside an oak tree where the town of Kildare now stands.
THE school musical about St Brigid was performed as a matinee on August 31 and an evening performance on September 1.
Students sang songs such as ‘Old School Yard’ and ‘We are the World’ that echoed through the audience.
Dancers shone through choreographed steps around the characters who came to life.
It was described by many who attended as a very moving performance.
In acknowledging the work and dedication that so many had put into bringing the musical together, Principal Duane Wann, recalled the events which had led to the performances.
“There was an audition process for the major roles in the musical, with the rehearsals commencing once the selection process was finalised.
“The idea was always to have a musical stage performance to acknowledge and celebrate 100 years of education at St Brigid’s Rosewood.
“An amazing teacher and artistic genius by the name of Fiona Ludgate scripted, choreographed and directed the ‘100 Years Musical’ at St Joseph’s in Blackall a few years back.
“After attending that performance, I was determined that our school would also have a similar stage presentation.
“Fiona resides in Yaraka, 1,000 kilometres away and she has shared the religious story of St Brigid and the historical information regarding the establishment of the school, converting this dialogue into a contemporary, modern-day depiction, known as ‘St Brigid the Musical’.
“The team was headed by St Brigid’s Drama teacher Mrs Lana Elwood who undertook significant organisation and behind the scenes duties.
“St Brigid’s school parents Simone Behrendorff and Camilla Jakimowicz then prepared the children for niche roles within the performance, with Simone leading the performance and singing aspect, while Camilla choreographed the dance sequences.”
