Within the term 2 holidays, a selected group of students were able to experience the ‘Motu of Western Sydney’ performance, held at the Joan Sutherland Performing Art Centre. This programme transformed students' perspective of culture by infusing modernised topics and issues present today, to traditional stories that originated many years ago. To observe how much hard work and effort was implemented in this project, created an eye-catching performance impressing the likes of many within the audience.

The show was written and co-directed by Moemoana Shwenke and Taofia Pelesasa. The Matavai Cultural Arts directors, Fred and Mary-Jane Schwenke were also the performance co directors who led a cast of 100 dancers representing various cultures including the Maori, Fijian, Hawaiian, Tongan, Cook island, Samoan and Tokelau culture.  Between these sections, the actors were able to portray the hardship of understanding the history behind our family and where we belong, due to the pressures of fitting in within society's standards.

This opened the eyes of the Mount Carmel students present, seeing a different conception of culture within contemporary times. As a result, it allowed us to deeply reflect on our lives and whether finding the best job or discovering the passions and dreams of oneself is truly what it means to succeed in life. Throughout the performance, we were also able to proudly enjoy one of our very own students participating in this incredible project, inspiring us and hopefully others in not only the realm of performing arts but also finding connection with our own culture. This opportunity was an honour and with the support of Mrs Abra, Mrs Maulguet and Mr Withnall, the day was able to be perfect for everyone involved.

By Alexis Brunt