Students set to take the Callback stage

2nd December, 2025

DioDance has been a part of the Stage 6 HSC program within Catholic Schools for many years, dedicated to supporting students studying HSC Dance. For the first time, eleven students received nominations and two students from Catholic Schools have been selected to perform at Callback – an annual showcase featuring a selection of approximately thirty HSC Dance performance works from across the state.

Congratulations to Makayla Lawrence from St Francis Xavier’s College, Hamilton and Cleo Doyle from St Paul’s Catholic College, Booragul, on their selection to perform in the 2026 Showcase. This achievement reflects their dedication and passion within the creative arts space and their HSC Dance studies.

Little Bird

Makayla will be performing her Core Performance Dance. This is a work choreographed by Diocesan Dance Teacher Miss Kate Ralph to a song entitled ‘Lillte Bird’ by Ella Bleu (John Travolta’s daghter). The work is marked on the students understanding and performance of safe dance practice, dance technique and performance quality. Students must demonstrate and discuss their use of anatomy and certain body skills such as locomotor movements and balances, along with their understanding and use of the elements of dance and technique.

The concept of Makayla’s Core Performance, showcases the process of a ‘Little Bird, who is growing in confidence after setbacks and overcoming their fears and uncertainties to fly and fully grow in their own confidence and strength. This is demonstrated through the use of space and as the work progresses, the higher levels of elevations performed, show the bird’s journey to overcoming self doubt.

Split Skin

Cleo will be perfrming her Major Study Performance piece. The Major Study is intended to develop and demonstrate students performance and interpretation. Cleo choreographed her piece entitled ‘Split Skin”. The work explores the contrast of connection and disconnection of cultural identity through the lens of Aboriginal spirituality. The dance was further developed through consultation with Awabakal, Kamilaroi, and Darkinjung community members, to express her own cultural identity and the ongoing journey of reconnecting with the stories, strength, and spirit of people. The use of ochre and a coolamon acts as a cultural anchor, embodying Country and a vessel of cultural knowledge. The choreography incorporates wiping the ochre symbolising the cultural practice, grounding and connection to ancestral spirits.