Hundreds from Goulburn South Public School, Tirranna Public School and Bradfordville Public School were treated to the talented Illawarra and South East Performing Ensemble.

The 50 performers from Illawarra, Shoalhaven, South Coast, Southern Highlands and Southern Tablelands, in years seven to 11, performed everything from Michael Jackson to Kenny Loggins’ Footloose.

It was a toe-tapping affair as the group of dancers, vocalists and band members mesmerised both the students and teachers. 

“Events like these support our music and creative arts program. Students are able to experience the excitement, the sounds and the visual aspect of a performance,” Goulburn South Public School teacher Jane Leeton said.

“I think it breaks down the barriers between the audience and the performer and it provides really good role models for students musically inclined.

“Live performance is something which is not always accessible. For this, they look into the eyes of the performers and they feel the electricity live performance provides.”

Students apart of the ensemble tour for three to four days every term across NSW.

The ensemble will perform 12 shows between November 13 and 16. 

“As well as doing three shows a day the students will also spend time with primary schools students sharing their skills in an effort to engender a love of the performing arts among younger students,” ensemble coordinator Sharon Buikstra said.

“Working together at camp and then touring the show really builds teamwork, confidence and performance ability. It’s a great bunch of students and they are very excited to be going on tour.” 

The ensemble is an initiative led by the NSW Department of Education.