Gifts of Blue and Gold(GOBAG) has grown from a simple 2009 fundraising concert into one of Fatima College’s most beloved annual traditions. Over the years, the production has expanded into a full scale musical showcase and the defining feature has become the continued collaboration with Holy Name Convent, whose singers, dancers and performers add depth, elegance and power to the event. Today, GOBAG is cherished by not just Fatima boys but by the countless Holy Name girls who join the production each year. 2025, GOBAG 17-Spes Non Confundit(“Hope does not Disappoint”)was no exception.
The Preparation Process
Every Friday and Saturday afternoon, Holy Name and Fatima students dedicated hours to rehearsals,vocal training, scene blocking, choreography and sectional work. Although it started off as structured practices it quickly transformed into safe spaces where friendships were formed, confidence grew and the cast became family.
As show week approached rehearsals intensified. Students returned after school during the week often staying late into the evening.Voices grew hoarse, feet ached and schoolwork piled up but enthusiasm never wavered. Instead the challenges strengthened everyone’s deterioration to make this the best GOBAG yet.
Moments Worth Remembering
Every Holy Name girl carried memories from GOABG 17 that felt nothing short of unforgettable from the dramatic beauty of What the Lord Has Done in Me, where choreography and message intertwined so seamlessly; the elegance and trust required for the partner dances in Amigos para Siempre;and the pride of watching younger students step boldly into their confidence with heartfelt solos. One of the most touching moments came on closing night, when the Fatima Cast surprised the Holy Name girls with roses, capturing the bond built between both schools.These experiences were shaped by the constant support of teachers, parents and the production team. Musically, Cause of Christ stood as the emotional and spiritual core of the production, its repetition of “Jesus ,my Jesus creating an atmosphere that felt sacred and deeply personal. In joyful contrast, the Soca Parang Medley brought pure freedom and cultural celebration, as students from both schools filled the stage with energy,laughter and unified expression.
Leadership and Growth
This year, Upper six students Anika Blenman, Jade Siu Kwan Hang, Zahara Glasgow,Haliya Mckenna, Rubiany Codallo and Mya Cox stepped into leadership roles of coordinating sections, helping newer members learn harmonies and maintaining and exceeding the standard of GOBAG performers.
For many newcomers, this was their first taste of the production however for some leaders, it was their last.This first-time excitement and final year nostalgia created a strong bond. Even though leaders faced personal challenges such as losing their pieces, feeling ill or balancing responsibilities they were lifted by the encouragement and gratitude of their peers.This continuous supportive spirit is what carried the choir through its toughest moments.
By closing night, first timers were already excited for GOBAG 18, eager to return to the community they had grown to love.
Lessons That Last a Lifetime
GOBAG teaches more than music. Holy Name students walked away with lessons in:
- Sacrifice-giving time, energy and heart to something bigger than themselves
- Courage-auditioning, performing and stepping forward
- Teamwork-understanding that success comes from unity
- Faith-feeling God’s presence through music and message. As many performers expressed “You don’t just perform for yourself, you perform to serve a purpose bigger than you.
Why should you join GOBAG?
For anyone unsure about joining next year, the message from this year’s performers is simple.Take the chance, you won’t regret it because whether you believe it or not every opportunity at Holy Name is meant to shape you positively.GOBAG gives students the opportunity to build lifelong friendships, experience emotional and spiritual growth, discover hidden talents and become part of a supportive artistic community. Most importantly ,it creates memories that last long after graduation and teaches every participant just how capable,brave and gifted they truly are.
A final word to future Gobag girls
To the Holy name girls who will carry the torch,be present,be brave, share your gifts and treasure every moment.This experience is a feeling but its impact is lasting as this year’s theme reminded us,”Hope does not disappoint.” GOBAG 17 was a testament to that hope, alive in music, in unity and in the hearts of every Holy Name girl who stepped onto that stage.
Written By: Mya Cox
Photos Provided By: Mya Cox