Past Spectaculars
Since its inception in 1995, the spectacular has offered a fantastic opportunity for government school students of any age and at any level of experience to perform before thousands of people in a professional production at world-class venues, like the Rod Laver Arena at Melbourne Park. To date some 20,000 students have performed to audiences exceeding 60,000 people.
To catch a glimpse of the past spectaculars, see: Victorian State Schools Spectacular Show reel
2008 - Made in Australia
Performed at the newly named Hisense Arena Melbourne Park, the 2008 Victorian State Schools Spectacular took us on a musical journey through landscapes and themes that explore what it means to be an Aussie. We travelled through the vastness of the dusty outback, spent time at the beach and experienced the urban sprawl of the big cities… and we did it all with the radio on… Over 2000 talented musicians, singers and dancers from Victorian Government schools performed to a very diverse range of music. From Kylie Minogue to Midnight Oil and featuring such greats as “Tie Me Kangaroo Down Sport” to “Tenterfield Saddler”.
2005 - Pacific School Games
Our largest performance to date, the Opening Ceremony of the Pacific School Games, held at Optus oval with a cast of over 4,000 Victorian government school students drawn from around the state. The Opening Ceremony performance drew its inspiration from the Pacific Ocean, the common theme which brings together the competitors of the games. Joining the Chorus also coordinated the venue musical entertainment during the games and produced the closing ceremony at the Sidney Myer Music Bowl.
See: Pacific School Games
2003 - Retrospect
In September 2003 the Rod Laver Arena at Melbourne Park rocked with the energy of over 3500 performers as the 5th State School Spectacular “Retrospect” took flight.
The audience was taken on a journey through 100 years of music, from Dixie Land to Punk Rock, from Charleston to Disco. A spectacular theatrical event that engaged and entertained all ages.
See: Retrospect
2001 - Shine
Shine was a bold, vibrant and explosive show that celebrated the youth of Australia. It highlighted Australia's ability to bring together diverse people and build a sense of unity, whilst still rejoicing in the differences of the individual. In a feast of dance, song and spectacular moments this show paid tribute to the young people of our history and of today.
1999 - Dreamscape
Dreamscape was a canvas on which hopes, dreams, aspirations and fears were painted through music, song and dance.
1997 - Quest of the Birds
This performance involved five large bird puppets on their quest for happiness. This quest took them through five wondrous lands: the Bird Land, the Wet Land, the Old Land, the Shadow Land and the Home Land.
1995 - Putting It Together
Putting It Together was the first JtC State Schools Spectacular and was so successful in showcasing Victoria's government school students that it ensured an ongoing commitment to performance opportunities for students.