Anna Kerrigan’s clever and witty script had audience members empathising with the characters, as they became part of a school lockdown with no idea why.

Lock down theories ran from alien invasions, a parent arriving and not signing in at reception, zombies being defeated by the librarian, to the cleaners taking over the school – the audience did not know where to look or what to expect next.

Anna was inspired to write the script after listening to science podcasts and becoming obsessed with the concept of dark matter. The production drew comparisons between dark matter and our lives, sharing with the audience that we rarely get the full story - often we think one thing is happening and in fact something completely different is going on.

The show featured an original composition by Tim Hansen called ‘The Moment’ along with songs by Michael Jackson, Meg Mac and Gwen Stefani.

Director of Schools, Dr Michael Slattery, congratulated the students and staff of ASPIRE, as he described the audience as being captivated by amazing dance sequences, solo vocal performances and wonderfully vibrant music.

ASPIRE is an audition-based drama, dance, music and creative and performing arts program launched by the Catholic Schools Office in 2011 to provide opportunities for students from Years 5 to 11 in Catholic schools in the Diocese of Maitland-Newcastle. Led by Artistic Director, Anna Kerrigan, and six Ensemble Directors, ASPIRE invites talented students from across the diocese to audition to develop and enhance their skills through vocal, instrumental, drama and dance performances.

Photography by Emma Van Esveld, Amanda Skehan and Emily Wilson.