From the CAPA Department - Arts After Dark: Winter Edition
A Dazzling Celebration of SFCC’s Inaugural CAPA showcase. SOLD OUT. Over 110 performers. 400+ attendees. One unforgettable night beneath the winter sky.
On the evening of June 12th, 2025, our SFCC community came alive under the stars for the first-ever Arts After Dark: Winter Edition — an inaugural Creative and Performing Arts (CAPA) showcase that united the entire community in a celebration of artistic talent and
togetherness.
The event transformed the school grounds into a vibrant, festival-like setting. Families bundled in coats, brought picnic gear and blankets, and snuggled up under the crisp winter air to enjoy an inspiring night of music, drama, and dance.
The atmosphere was electric. Over 110 student performers, from Kindergarten through Year 11, took to the stage with excitement and pride. There was a tangible buzz backstage and in the crowd — students were bursting with nervous energy and joy, supporting each other and showcasing weeks of hard work.
Audience members were treated to everything from ensemble music pieces and solo performances to expressive dance routines and compelling drama scenes. But behind the spotlight was something equally powerful: students learning, collaborating, and leading.
While many students performed on stage, others were deeply involved behind the scenes, working closely with industry experts in lighting and sound. These students gained hands-on experience in live production — programming cues, managing tech gear, and running live audio. For many, it was their first exposure to professional backstage roles — an unforgettable, real-world learning experience.
Students were absolutely buzzing with excitement throughout the event. Whether they were performing on stage or working behind the scenes in lighting and sound, they felt the energy and understood they were part of something truly special. The sense of pride and collaboration was felt in every corner of the showcase.
Music teacher Mrs Blunden and drama/dance teacher Miss Castagnella, who also servedas Stage Manager, were pivotal to the event’s success. Their combined leadership brought warmth, structure, and vision to every part of the showcase.
“It was more than a show — it was a shared experience. We saw students from all ages working together, lifting each other up, and taking risks. The growth in
confidence, especially from students who had never performed before, was incredible.” - Mrs Blunden
“There’s something uniquely powerful about creative expression. One Year 6 student said, ‘I didn’t think I could do it, but I did, and it felt amazing.’ That’s what
it’s all about.” - Miss Castagnella
Arts After Dark was more than a performance — it was a celebration of creativity, connection, and the power of student voice. From the stage to the sound desk, every moment reflected the heart of our community. This is just the beginning of an exciting new chapter for the arts landscape at SFCC.
- Mr Najee Tannous
Leader of Creative and Performing Arts