The story line:

This year, I’m going to be a better person. It’s a new year. A time to make a list, a list of what you’d like to achieve, how you’d like to change, even questions you’d like answered. But remember that a lot can change in a year: people change, we can get a little bit older and sometimes even a little bit smarter. By the end of the year, the list of what you thought you wanted can look very different.

The production introduced the audience to a host of characters and charted their lives over the space of a year, through their lows, their highs and their epic birthday parties!

This year’s production featured four original songs written and composed by students and teachers from the diocese.

Acting Director of the Catholic Schools Office, Gerard Mowbray commented, "The swelled audience numbers this year reflected on the journey of success ASPIRE has enjoyed this year. We were once again afforded the privilege of student performances in acting, dancing and music. I am stunned by the magic that our students provide for us through ASPIRE.

"I couldn’t help but think as I enjoyed Friday night’s performance of the overwhelming joy and satisfaction in each student as they performed, acted and danced along with their peers. I was absorbed into their passion and enthusiasm as they gave of their best.

"We are indebted to the magic of Artistic Director Anna Kerrigan, the passion of Executive Officer Lisa Little, the dedication of Administrative Assistant Anne Atkins, the ever-present commitment of Chair Brian Lacey, the wonderful staff who are our ensemble leaders and, of course, our outstanding ASPIRE students."

ASPIRE is an initiative of the Catholic Schools Office that provides an opportunity for students talented in the performing arts to challenge themselves in a creative environment. This showcase performance unites the seven ensembles of Vocal, Drama, Instrumental, Strings, Dance, Design and Production culminating in a dynamic, integrated production for 2019.

Photography by Amanda Skehan, Amy Theodore and Emily Wilson.