Brentwood fine arts shine

By Melissa Piche Times Contributor

École Brentwood has had a long-standing history of being recognized for their fine arts program. 

This year, under the guidance of the recent fine arts specialist Loralee Laycock, Brentwood is excited to spread the word of the upcoming performances the students will be presenting as part of the Fine Arts Program.

The first seasonal installment for the students was caroling for the Community Tree Lighting on Dec. 7.  

“We (had) students in Grades 4 through six caroling at the town’s (Spirit of Christmas),” said Laycock. “We’re trying to incorporate a lot of singing of familiar Christmas songs and some less familiar Christmas songs so that they feel confident and ready to go and sing lots of different styles and varieties.” 

Laycock said in the future she would like to incorporate some French songs into her teachings and is preparing some French songs to start the New Year.

Laycock is also excited about their partnership with the Strathmore High School for the production of The Wizard of Oz. This is just one of many productions Laycock hopes to be involved with at Brentwood. 

“That includes 20 kids from our school who are all performing,” said Laycock of the Brentwood students who will be performing different roles such as munchkins, jitterbugs and Ozians. “It gives them a chance to be involved and experience what that would all be like backstage, costume changes, lots of entrances and exits. So far, it’s just been a really incredible experience for them.” 

Greta Peterson (10) performing in The Wizard of Oz alongside her older sister Ella Peterson.

“It’s really fun,” said the younger sister. “I like the costume for it.” 

To cap off the holiday season Brentwood is hosting their annual Christmas concert on Dec. 19 with an afternoon matinee at 1:30 p.m. and evening show at 6:30 p.m. 

Brentwood is welcoming the public to attend the concerts as they are free and hope to inspire nostalgia of the holiday season to all who attend. 

Laycock hopes to carry on the legacy of the Fine Arts Program at Brentwood though collaborative work with fellow teachers in the Golden Hills School Division such as Deanne Burtsch. The two teachers have known each other for a number of years as Laycock’s own children have all gone through the drama program at Strathmore High School as well as the two are part of a collaborative group within Golden Hills School Division. 

“I know Deanne and I’ve known her for a long time, so when I got this job at Brentwood and I knew they were going to be doing The Wizard of Oz – I approached her right away,” said Laycock. “She is so gracious and so accommodating and welcoming.”

Laycock knows that inspiring a love for the arts during some of the most impressionable years is important to establishing a passion that grows with the student and follows them through their academic years. She hopes to make the most of her time at Brentwood and is excited to help kids find the joy and love that only music can inspire.