From leading roles to choreography and production, students from Our Lady of the Sacred Heart (OLSH) College Kensington recently brought creativity to life in a spectacular joint production of The Wizard of Oz — showcasing the depth of opportunity available through the College's thriving Creative and Performing Arts (CAPA) program.
Presented in partnership with Marcellin College Randwick and Corpus Christi College Maroubra at The Juniors Kingsford, the production saw OLSH students perform on stage, lead behind the scenes and contribute across dance, drama and technical production.
Taking centre stage was OLSH student Abilene Bramble in the iconic role of Dorothy, while Year 12 student and College Vice Captain Maddison Cernigila choreographed the production — a powerful example of students being empowered to lead creatively and pursue their passions.
For Abilene, the experience represented more than a performance.
"Playing Dorothy was an incredible opportunity and something I'll always remember," she said.
"At OLSH I've been encouraged to challenge myself, build confidence and keep developing my love of performance. The support from teachers and the opportunities available across dance, drama and musical productions have helped me grow both creatively and personally."
OLSH Kensington’s Abilene Bramble leads the way as Dorothy in a joint musical production with Marcellin College Randwick and Corpus Christi College Maroubra.
OLSH Kensington’s Karina Smirski puts in a wicked performance as the Witch of the West.
The production was directed by Teacher in Charge – Dance and Leader of Pastoral Care (Year 11), Joanne Caletti, whose expertise and mentorship continue to shape OLSH's reputation for excellence in the performing arts.
Mrs Caletti recently won the 2026 Sydney Catholic Schools Performing Arts Teacher Exemplary Service Award, recognising her outstanding contribution to arts education across the Catholic system.
Beyond OLSH, Mrs Caletti has contributed extensively to dance education as a choreographer, mentor, Sydney Catholic Schools Viva Stage 5 and 6 Dance teacher, and experienced HSC marker. She has also been recognised by NESA for her work supporting excellence in HSC Dance.
Mrs Caletti said opportunities like The Wizard of Oz give students the confidence to step beyond what they thought possible.
"Creative and Performing Arts allows students to express themselves, work collaboratively and discover strengths they may not have realised they had," she said.
"What makes productions like this so rewarding is seeing students embrace opportunities and grow in confidence — whether they are performing under the spotlight, creating choreography or contributing behind the scenes. These experiences develop skills that stay with students long after the final curtain."
The Munchkin dance troupe takes centre stage in a joint school production choreographed by OLSH Kensington Year 12 student, Maddison Cernigila.
Principal Gilda Pussich said the production reflected the College's long-standing culture of excellence in the arts.
"Creative and Performing Arts is an important part of life at OLSH and our students consistently achieve exceptional outcomes while building confidence, creativity and connection", Ms Pussich said.
“Our 2025 HSC cohort demonstrated outstanding achievement with students recognised through OnStage, Callback, HSC Performing Arts and Digital Showcase selections, along with inclusion on the HSC Honour Roll. Under the guidance of Mrs Holly Roberts, Musical Director, every student in the 2025 HSC Music class achieved a Band 6.”
Beyond major productions, OLSH students are immersed in a rich calendar of opportunities across dance, drama, music and performance, including Eisteddfods, DanceLife, Theatresports, Public Speaking and Debating.
The College's Debating teams performed strongly in the Catholic Schools Debating Association (CSDA) competition, which attracts 72 schools from both Independent and Systemic Catholic Schools. OLSH public speaking students continue to achieve, including placing first in the Sydney Eisteddfod. The String Ensemble recently achieved first place at the SCS Amadeus Extension Eisteddfod.
At OLSH, students are encouraged to explore their passions, take creative risks and discover where their talents can lead — because the arts are not simply an activity, but a pathway to confidence, leadership and lifelong growth.
Could OLSH be the place where your daughter's creativity takes centre stage? Complete an Expression of Interest and learn more about our Creative and Performing Arts opportunities.