Arts Graduates from AngliSchools across Western Australia are shining on the world stage this year.
Swan Valley’s Musical Marvels
Seven Swan Valley Anglican Community School alumni were accepted to study Performing Arts at tertiary institutions in 2025. Six students are at WAAPA, the Western Australian Academy of Performing Arts, including Finley Hearn, who is studying as a vocalist in the WAAPA Bachelor of Jazz. Jason Grobbelaar is pursuing a Bachelor of Music (majoring in Jazz Performance), with the electric bass as his chosen instrument.
2024 Head Prefect and Dux Runner-Up, Grace Trainor, was accepted to study a Diploma of Musical Theatre at the National Institute of Dramatic Arts (NIDA) in Sydney. It is exceptional for a student straight out of school to be accepted into NIDA. “The course is extremely demanding – but there’s nothing I’d rather be doing,” said Grace.
All three students credit their teachers and friends at Swan Valley for inspiring and guiding them.
Grace said, “Swan Valley’s amazing Music and Drama Department fuelled my ambition and dreams throughout my time at the school. Their kindness and passion taught me what a safe and nurturing industry the Arts could be.”
Trinity’s Ballerina
Trinity Anglican College is thrilled to celebrate the incredible achievement of Skye Vanderhoek, who recently had the opportunity to perform at the world-renowned Royal Opera House in London.
This prestigious event was part of a production honouring the life and legacy of legendary Italian ballerina Mara Galeazzi.
While in London, Skye trained under Mara Galeazzi herself, alongside her dance coach Tim Podesta, a former member of The Australian Ballet and a highly respected figure in the dance community. Skye will continue performing in “Echoes in 8”, a production directed by Peter J Adams and choreographed by Tim Podesta. This unique performance captures Mara Galeazzi’s legacy and will debut in Australia before touring Europe, ultimately being adapted into a film.
John Septimus Roe’s Opera Newcomer
John Septimus Roe Anglican Community School alumnus James Pinneri was nominated for Outstanding Newcomer (Musicals & Opera) at the 2024 Performing Arts WA Awards.
James completed his schooling at John Septimus Roe, performing lead roles in school musicals and singing in the school Chapel and Secondary Choirs. After graduating, he earned a Bachelor of Music in Classical Voice Performance from WAAPA, performed with the West Australian Opera Chorus, and recently joined the Pacific Opera Studio in Sydney for a prestigious Young Artist Development Program.
To our incredible teachers, we thank you for your dedicated nurturing of young talent, with outstanding results.
