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Students Shine in Playing Beatie Bow

1. Students performing Playing Beatie Bow on stage at Fremantle’s Naval Store

The Naval Store in Fremantle was transformed into the cobbled streets of 19th-century Sydney as Santa Maria College students brought Playing Beatie Bow to life last weekend. Over three captivating performances, the talented cast and crew transported audiences through time, showcasing months of dedication, creativity, and teamwork.

A Classic Story Reimagined

Adapted for the stage by acclaimed Australian playwright Kate Mulvany, Playing Beatie Bow is based on Ruth Park’s beloved novel. It follows modern-day teenager Abigail as she chases a mysterious girl through the laneways of The Rocks, only to find herself in the year 1873. Amidst hardship, immigrant families, and larger-than-life characters, Abigail discovers resilience, connection, and the true meaning of belonging.

Jayshnee, who portrayed Abigail, shared how deeply the experience affected her: “One key thing I have learned, through both the rehearsal process and storyline of this production, is that from the people we meet and experiences we have in life, we learn important life lessons. It’s important to cherish these things, like being grateful for family and friendship, and sometimes putting their needs before our own.”

This year’s production embraced the play’s blend of gritty realism and magical time travel. The raw, atmospheric backdrop of the Naval Store helped transport audiences to another era, making the show both intimate and immersive.

1. Students performing Playing Beatie Bow on stage at Fremantle’s Naval Store
1. Students performing Playing Beatie Bow on stage at Fremantle’s Naval Store
1. Students performing Playing Beatie Bow on stage at Fremantle’s Naval Store
1. Students performing Playing Beatie Bow on stage at Fremantle’s Naval Store
1. Students performing Playing Beatie Bow on stage at Fremantle’s Naval Store

Rehearsed to Perfection

Behind the scenes, students and staff worked tirelessly throughout the term to bring the production to life. From learning lines and perfecting accents to building sets and running lighting cues, it was a whole-school effort.

Whether on stage or behind the curtain, students showed incredible collaboration, resilience, and creativity. Their attention to detail was clear, from costume design to moving musical moments and the emotional weight of the final scenes.

For Bronte, who played Ernest and was part of the Ensemble, the production was more than just a performance. “The highlight for me was making new friends and growing closer to those I already knew. As my final Santa Maria production, I threw my all into Playing Beatie Bow and enjoyed the process, from audition to performances.”

A Celebration of Talent and Teamwork

Productions like Playing Beatie Bow are about more than just the final bow. They’re opportunities for students to grow, challenge themselves, and form deep connections. The cast became a family, supporting one another through nerves, mistakes, and proud moments. The crew, often unseen, played a vital role in ensuring every show ran smoothly.

Performing Arts Captain Nina also reflected on the team’s spirit: “Seeing it all come to life on stage left me extremely proud and overjoyed. It was so beautiful to see friendships flourish, and the teamwork and support for each other backstage made the show so successful!”

The performances reflected Santa Maria College’s values of Excellence and Service. Students used their talents not just for personal growth, but to offer their audience joy, reflection, and a strong sense of community.

1. Students performing Playing Beatie Bow on stage at Fremantle’s Naval Store
2. Cast members in period costume re-enacting 19th-century scenes from the play
2. Cast members in period costume re-enacting 19th-century scenes from the play
1. Students performing Playing Beatie Bow on stage at Fremantle’s Naval Store

The Power of Storytelling

What made this production truly powerful was its timeless message. At its heart, Playing Beatie Bow explores change, identity, and empathy, universal themes that deeply resonate with our students as they navigate their own journeys of growth and discovery.

Our students stepped into challenging roles and historical contexts with confidence, bringing complex characters to life with depth and heart.

Facing Challenges

Every production brings its own unique challenges, and this was no exception. Director and Head of Performing Arts, Amanda Huxtable, reflected on the journey:

“There have been many challenges, particularly performing in a site-specific venue. However, the cast and crew embraced every one with enthusiasm and creativity. I am so very proud of this cast and how they have come together to support each other and acknowledge each other’s strengths. They continuously worked collaboratively to solve problems and create magic in the performance space. They have grown as performers and individuals throughout this process.”

Amanda summed up the post-show feeling beautifully:

“Despite being tired, everyone seems to be walking a little taller this week, buoyed by the sense of accomplishment and joy that Playing Beatie Bow has brought them.”

3. Backstage crew and performers together after the show
Cast and crew of Playing Beatie Bow

Thank You!

Congratulations to the cast, crew, directors, and staff who made Playing Beatie Bow such a memorable experience. And thank you to the families and wider community who supported the production. Your applause, presence, and kind words helped make the week truly unforgettable.

  • Creativity, drama, Featured, FremantleEvents, PerformingArts, PlayingBeatieBow, SchoolProduction, teamword, Theatre

Author: Santa Maria College
Santa Maria College is a vibrant girls school with a growing local presence and reputation.  Our Mission is to educate young Mercy women who act with courage and compassion to enrich our world.  Santa Maria College is located in Attadale in Western Australia, 16 km from the Perth CBD.  We offer a Catholic education for girls in Years 5 – 12 and have 1300 students, including 152 boarders.

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