In case you missed it: December 2024
'Tis the season at Wellington! Our community came together in a whirlwind of festive celebrations, from tree-lighting ceremonies and pantomimes to concerts that lifted spirits high. Whether it was our littlest learners spreading holiday cheer at the Early Years Centre Bazaar or our secondary choir carolling across Shanghai, there was no shortage of magic and merriment. Read on for a recap of the most joyous moments that made this Wellington's merriest Christmas yet.
Tree-lighting ceremony
We kicked off the festive season with our annual tree-lighting ceremony. Pupils, parents and teachers gathered on the esplanade and lifted their spirits with warm beverages and classic Christmas carols. Father Christmas made a surprise appearance and there was even a bit of snow! We then went to the College Theatre for a belting performance of Sleeping Beauty: The Pantomime.
Sleeping Beauty: The Pantomime
This year, our talented year 7 and 8 pupils put on a scintillating production of Sleeping Beauty: The Pantomime. This enchanting play, written by Ben Crocker and adapted by our very own Mr Rob Hicks, stayed true to the beloved story of Princess Aurora, who fell under the spell of the wicked fairy Maleficent. But this wasn't a typical 'once upon a time' tale. Our incredible players brought a fresh, comedic flair with unexpected twists, hilarious one-liners, and vibrant costumes that transported the audience right into the heart of the magical kingdom.
Early Years Centre Christmas Bazaar
Our littlest learners in the Early Years Centre celebrated the holidays with a Christmas Bazaar. It was a day of performances and sing-alongs along with a busy agenda of fun and interactive activities. The children made handicrafts like Christmas cards, paper plate Christmas trees and decorative reindeer. They also made a bevvy of sweet holiday treats and, of course, played games like pin the nose on Rudolph.
Primary Christmas Concert
Our Primary School Christmas Concert wowed audiences. Our guitar orchestra lifted spirits with a rendition of ‘Joy to the World’ and ‘O Little Town of Bethlehem’. The choir did a medley of Disney princess songs. Our junior orchestra performed renditions of ‘Flowers’, ‘Surprise Symphony’, ‘Happy, Snappy, Tippy, Tappy Elves’ and so much more.
Secondary Christmas Concert
Our annual Secondary School Christmas Concert featured a stirring rendition of Vivaldi's Gloria by our talented pupil vocalists joined by the acclaimed Friends of Wellington Choir. Following the grand choral performance, our school's top musical ensembles took the stage to treat the audience to a host of festive numbers by our choirs, orchestra, big band and string ensemble. But this evening was about so much more than music. It was a celebration of our vibrant community — a chance for pupils, parents, teachers and friends to share together in the joy of the holiday season.
Year 1 Christmas Production: A Merry Little Christmas
Year 1’s production of A Merry Little Christmas featured each class performing a festive song, showcasing their enthusiasm through cheerful choreography and lively singing. They created a magical and heartwarming atmosphere, bringing together the school community to celebrate the spirit of the season through music and performance.
Year 2 Christmas Production: Eddie the Penguin
The Year 2 Christmas show, Eddie the Penguin, told the story of Eddie as he travelled around the world on a mission to save the planet. Each class took on the roles of penguins and polar bears, travelling to different parts of the globe while singing and dancing to fun and lively songs. Through their performances, the children shared an important message about caring for the environment, all while spreading holiday cheer with their enthusiasm and energy. This heartwarming show combined music, movement and a meaningful theme, making it a memorable experience for everyone.
Carols around Shanghai
The Wellington Shanghai choirs spread holiday cheer throughout the city this season. Donning festive attire, the talented young vocalists performed cherished Christmas carols at various hotels and venues across Shanghai including the Qiantan Shangrila, Langham, St. Regis, Marriott as well as Shanghai’s very own Harrod’s. Their infectious enthusiasm captivated audiences brought smiles to faces and evoked the true spirit of the season.
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