NAPA News - Week 4, Term 2, 2025
FROM THE DIRECTOR
Welcome to Week 4 of Term 2. It’s been a busy few weeks already with so much going on at the studio. Our new sound system is in, we’ve had our first visit from Humphrey B Bear, our NAPA College students went off to camp and all our classes have been busy rehearsing for shows and learning new skills! Footloose is close to opening, so make sure you have your tickets. Opening night is selling fast, but there are still seats available for week 2.
QUICK REMINDERS
ABSENTEEISM - DON’T FORGET TO USE YOUR PARENT PORTAL TO LOG ANY ABSENTEEISM
WINTER UNIFORMS NOW CLOSED OFF FOR FIRST ROUND ORDERS
SAFETY AT NAPA - PLEASE ENSURE YOU ARE SUPERVISING YOUNG CHILDREN WHEN THEY ARE ON BREAK AT NAPA - STUDENTS SHOULD STAY WITHIN THE GATED AREA AND ENSURE THEY ARE NOT PLAYING AROUND THE CONTAINER AND BIN AREAS. PLEASE SEE IMPORTANT REQUEST BELOW>>
NEWS HIGHLIGHTS
HUMPHREY B. BEAR AT NAPA!
Humphrey made his first appearance at NAPA on Thursday, and we had a great time filming a fun new segment. Humphrey learned to dance with some of our Under 10’s Team, explored the costume room with our NAPA College students, and showed us some of his favourite magic tricks! Congratulations to our students who did so well on the day. It was a big day of filming, and they were so professional throughout. We can’t wait to welcome Humphrey back again soon!
College kids at camp
Our NAPA College students finally got to go on “camp” after their initial plans were washed out with Cyclone Alfred. Unfortunately, they could not do our traditional camp but instead attended two day trips to the Currumbin Valley Environmental camp. They had lots of fun kayaking, rock climbing and bonding as a team. They then had a great night of games, karaoke and more team building fun with Miss Amy back at NAPA. Thank you, Miss Mandy and Miss Amy, for all your support of the kids over their two days at camp. They are so lucky to have you as part of their journey.
REMINDER: TEACHER + STAFF RIGHT TO DISCONNECT
At NAPA we have teachers and staff who are working long hours at the studio, and most also have jobs outside the studio. We believe that all staff have the right to disconnect from work outside of their professional hours, which includes the expectation that parents respect their personal time by refraining from messaging staff on private social media or personal phones. Educators work tirelessly throughout their work day and often dedicate additional hours to lesson planning, class preparation, and professional development. However, it is essential that they also have a healthy work-life balance. By respecting boundaries and communicating through designated channels during appropriate hours, parents can help ensure teachers are able to recharge and maintain their well-being, ultimately benefiting both educators and students. Encouraging this mutual respect fosters a more positive, sustainable studio environment. If your child’s teacher has given permission for you to contact them on alternative forms of communication, please ensure that you are still respecting healthy boundaries and allowing them to disconnect in their downtime.
If you are unsure on best ways to communicate, please see below for teacher emails.
All enquiries and queries should first go through Kimberley - [email protected]
College schooling and student wellbeing - [email protected]
NAPA College course co-ordinator (Cert IV) - [email protected]
NAPA College part-time course co-ordinator (Cert III) - [email protected]
NAPA Finance - [email protected]
Company Director - [email protected]
SAFETY AT NAPA
We’re reaching out to ask for a little help from our wonderful parent community.
On the evening of Thursday, 8th May, a parked staff vehicle in the staff parking area sustained damage when a large rock was thrown through one of its windows. The incident occurred sometime between 5:45pm and 7:00pm, during the peak of evening classes.
A few students are typically seated outside during this time (between 6:00pm and 6:45pm), and while they may not have seen anything — or may not have felt comfortable sharing at the time — it’s possible they may have mentioned something at home.
We kindly ask that parents check in with their children to see if they happened to notice or hear anything unusual that evening. Any information, no matter how small, could help clarify what happened. If your child shares anything that might be useful, please feel free to pass it on to Miss Kimmi.
Thank you for helping us keep our environment safe, respectful, and supportive for all.
WEllbeing
Protecting Yourself from Covert Bullying
In the world of performance — whether in school productions, youth theatre, or early professional work — you're likely to meet a wide range of personalities. Most people are supportive, but sometimes, you'll encounter subtle forms of bullying: exclusion, gossip, backhanded compliments, or silent treatment. This kind of behaviour — often called covert bullying — can be hard to spot, and even harder to call out, but it can still take a real toll on your confidence and wellbeing.
Here’s the most important thing to remember: someone else’s behaviour does not define your worth. If you're being treated unfairly or made to feel small, it says far more about them than it does about you.
When facing covert bullying:
Stay grounded in who you are. Focus on your values, your work ethic, and your love for performing.
Don’t shrink to fit in. Continue showing up with kindness and integrity, even if others don’t.
Find your allies. Connect with cast mates, mentors, or friends who uplift you and treat you with respect.
Speak up when needed. If the behaviour escalates or becomes persistent, talk to a trusted adult, teacher, or director. You have the right to feel safe and respected in any creative space.
Take care of your mental health. Journaling, setting boundaries, or taking time to reconnect with your passions outside the performance space can help you stay balanced.
It’s also important to practice self-reflection. Take time to honestly assess your own actions, words, and energy. Are you lifting others up, or unintentionally contributing to a culture of exclusion or judgment? It’s easy to get caught up in group dynamics or peer pressure, but real leadership — and true character — comes from choosing kindness, even when it’s not the norm. Be the person who welcomes others, supports their growth, and helps create a space where everyone feels safe to shine. In a world that can be challenging, be the light someone else needs.
We also encourage you to revisit our first Wellbeing Tip, which introduced NAPA’s new Anti-Bullying Policy. This policy outlines the standards of behaviour expected within our community and the steps in place to protect and support every performer. At NAPA, we take bullying of any kind seriously — overt or covert — and are committed to fostering an environment where everyone feels safe, seen, and valued. You can read more about it here.
Covert bullying can feel isolating, but you're never alone — and it doesn’t have to define your experience. Keep your focus on the work, the joy of storytelling, and the community you're building. Protect your peace. You are more than someone else's opinion, and your presence onstage — and in the world — matters.
ALUMNI SPOTLIGHT
HALLE ANDERSON
NAPA Years: 2023
We’re thrilled to feature Halle Anderson in this week’s Alumni Spotlight — a shining example of talent, dedication, and the magic that happens when hard work meets opportunity.
During her time at NAPA, Halle was a vibrant and committed student, taking part in Broadway (Musical Theatre), Dance, and Performance Teams. Her passion for performing and eagerness to grow were evident in every class and on every stage she stepped onto.
After completing her training at NAPA, Halle achieved an incredible milestone — joining the cast of Hong Kong Disneyland! Working internationally in such a renowned and competitive performance environment is no small feat, and we couldn’t be prouder of all she’s accomplished.
Reflecting on her journey, Halle shares:
“My NAPA training helped shape me into the performer I am today! The guidance from my teachers and support from my peers created a positive environment I was able to thrive in. I believe my acting training at NAPA was a huge factor in preparing me for the Disney audition and performance work throughout my contracts. I love and appreciate how NAPA promotes personal growth to produce professional performers ready for the work environment. I will always be grateful and proud to be part of the NAPA community!”
Halle’s story is a testament to what’s possible with passion, persistence, and the right support system. We’re so proud to call her part of the NAPA family and can’t wait to see where her talent takes her next!
STAFF SPOTLIGHT
LAURA COOPER
ACTING SPECIALIST AND PRODUCTION DIRECTOR
CLASSES — BROADWAY KIDS, BROADWAY TWEENS
This week, we shine the spotlight on the dynamic and inspiring Laura Cooper — a passionate educator whose journey from stage to studio has taken her around the globe.
Laura began dancing at the age of 11 at DLDC in Brisbane, where her love for performing first took root. After finishing school, she followed her passion to Sydney, completing her Diploma of Performing Arts at David Atkins Dynamite Studios. What followed was an exciting 15-year career performing professionally across the world.
Her impressive resume includes performances and choreography for Warner Bros. Movie World, Universal Studios Osaka, Nickelodeon, and Cartoon Network. She’s graced the stage in major televised events such as Australian Idol, the ARIA Music Awards, and the NRL Grand Final, bringing energy and artistry to every performance.
When it was time to hang up her dance shoes, Laura’s love for the arts naturally led her into choreography and teaching. She recently spent eight years in the United States, where she worked as a drama teacher, producing, directing, and choreographing countless musicals. Her experience and creativity bring an infectious energy to the classroom, and she thrives on helping her students rise to the challenge.
Laura lives by the Oscar Wilde quote, “Be yourself, everyone else is taken,” and it's a mantra she shares with her students — encouraging them to bring authenticity, courage, and individuality to both the stage and life.
We’re so lucky to have Laura as part of our team, sharing her wealth of experience and unwavering passion with the next generation of performers.
PERFORMANCE TIPS
The Power of Collective Commitment
Following on from last week’s Performance Tip “Shine Together and Not Just Alone”, a truly compelling performance is never the result of one person alone. No matter the size of your role — whether you're delivering a key monologue or simply walking across the stage in a silent moment — your presence, energy, and intention contribute to the overall story. Theatre, film, and any form of ensemble performance are collaborative art forms, and their strength depends entirely on the commitment of every performer involved.
When even one cast member isn't fully invested, the illusion breaks. The audience can feel it. On the other hand, when every performer brings authenticity, focus, and passion — from leads to ensemble — the entire production becomes richer, more immersive, and more impactful. The story gains depth. The world onstage feels real.
Being part of a performance means being part of something bigger than yourself. It's about trust, teamwork, and respect for the craft. So show up. Be present. Do the work. Pull your weight — not just for yourself, but for your fellow castmates, your crew, and your audience. The strength of the whole production rests on all of you working together with equal dedication.
This mindset is more than just good stage etiquette — it’s a vital life skill. In the real world, whether you're part of a workplace team, a community project, or a family unit, success often hinges on everyone doing their part. Employers value people who take responsibility, support others, and contribute consistently. Just like in performance, a team’s effectiveness is only as strong as its weakest link. By developing this habit of full commitment and accountability in the arts, you’re also preparing yourself to thrive in any collaborative environment beyond the stage.
Remember: A performance is only as strong as its weakest commitment. Make yours unshakable — onstage and off.
