St Mary’s students star in school play

Leading actors Vidhumi, Denzel, Emily, and Evie, discovered a mysterious glowing map of the world, which when touched, transported the protagonists from country to country.

From Kenya to Ireland and everywhere in between, the quartet was taken on a journey, with students playing characters as varied as penguins and mummies, sharing fun facts as they went.

Based on the school’s curriculum of history and geography, the plot celebrates diversity and the connection people share regardless of their backgrounds.

St Mary’s vice-principal Rebecca Lloyd, who wrote and directed the play, said almost all the school’s students between years three to six featured on stage.

“It’s been incredible,” Ms Lloyd said.

“(Even) those couple of kids who are perhaps a little bit shy, they still get out there and have a go.”

“We also have a few who are some backstage support, so everyone’s involved in some capacity.”

School principal Jasmine Ryan said opportunities for students to perform are invaluable, especially for regional schools that don’t always get the same opportunities as schools in metropolitan areas.

“If there’s a will, there’s a way,” Ms Ryan said.

“My staff have been incredible in allowing that to happen.

“Every single kid, regardless of if they’re a dancer or a singer, they’re so willing, and they give 150 (per cent) to ever rehearsal.”

“Their stamina to have a go and their courage to do things that don’t normally has been outstanding.”

Both teachers also said they had received excellent support from the community.

Echuca-Moama Men’s Shed members and St Mary’s parents created some of the props, and representatives from Njernda designed costumes and helped translate the chorus of one of the songs from English to Yorta Yorta language.

“You can’t do it without community,” Ms Ryan said.

“We’ve had buy in from the beginning... and (these) two days were just a celebration of it all.”