With dedicated staff, expert tutors and a wide range of opportunities, students are encouraged to explore, grow and express themselves through music, dance, drama, and theatre production.
Led by Director of Performing Arts, Ms Shelagh Thomson, and supported by Performing Arts Coordinator, Mrs Sarah Hinton, the programme is based out of the Diocesan Performing Arts Centre (PAC). It supports students across all year levels and is a key part of Dio’s co-curricular life. All information, sign-ups and audition details are available on DioConnect which is the main hub for all Performing Arts activities.
For 2025 we have a range of exciting opportunities across the performing arts, including:
Drama
Students can take part in a variety of drama experiences, including weekly theatre workshops with Red Leap Theatre Company (Years 7–10), Stage Combat classes run by NZ Stage and Screen Combat School, Special Effects Makeup with BodyFX and Junior or Senior Improv with Covert Theatre. These workshops are fun, challenging and help students develop confidence and creativity.
Dance
Dance at Dio includes Hip Hop, Theatre Jazz and other opportunities throughout the year. Dance groups regularly perform at school events and competitions, providing exciting platforms for expression and teamwork.
Instrumental Music
Dio offers a wide range of orchestras and bands to suit different skill levels. These include Symphony and Chamber Orchestra, Concert Band, Wind Band and ConcorDio. Jam Factory, our popular rock band programme, also welcomes new members.
Choirs
There are three main choir groups at Dio: Virtuoso Voce (Years 7–8), Bella Cantoris (Years 9–10) and the St Cecilia Singers (Years 9–13, auditioned). Each choir rehearses regularly and performs at school and community events.
Musical Theatre
Dio produces three full-scale musicals annually across the Junior, Junior High and Senior schools. In the first half of 2025, the Senior School presented a spectacular production of Mary Poppins, while the Year 5 production of Finding Nemo delighted family audiences. Audition information for upcoming shows is available throughout the year.
Coming Up for the Remainder of Term 3
- KBB Festival Week at Holy Trinity Cathedral (Mon 11 – Sat 16 August)
- Monday 11 August: ConcorDio performs at 10:30am, Symphony Orchestra at 8:30pm
- Tuesday 12 August: Chamber Orchestra performs at 3:30pm
- Wednesday 13 August: Concert Band performs at 2:30pm
- Friday 15 August: Honours Orchestra performs at 6:30pm
- Saturday 16 August: Gala and Awards Ceremony (afternoon and evening)
- Friday 22 August: Choral Showcase, 6:30pm in the Theatre
- Wednesday 27 August: Dance NZ Made and Big Sing Finale in Dunedin (27–31 August)
- Saturday 30 August: Gala and Awards Ceremony
- Saturday 30 & Sunday 31 August: AIMS Hip Hop
- Wednesday 10 September: Junior School Arts Extravaganza, 5:30pm in the Theatre
- Thursday 18 September: Arts Awards, 6:30pm in the Theatre
- Friday 17 October: Scholarship Arts Showcase
- Thursday 30 October: Junior High School Performing Arts Showcase
Whether your child is an experienced performer or just starting out, the Performing Arts programme at Dio offers a welcoming, inclusive space to explore their passions.
All sign-ups, audition details, and key information are available via DioConnect. For further queries, contact Mrs Sarah Hinton.
