From The Archives

From the Archives: Northside Story 

In 2006, Northcote High School celebrated its 80th anniversary. Rather than marking the occasion only with speeches and reunions, the school’s history was brought to life on stage through an original musical, Northside Story. 

Written and directed by former student and then staff member Alex Madden, Northside Story was created especially for the anniversary and performed at Northcote Town Hall. Drawing on the school’s history, the production offered a creative reflection on the people, events and traditions that had shaped Northcote High across its first eight decades. The school’s historical record describes the musical as a fitting climax to the anniversary celebrations. 

Photos from 2006 Ripples magazine 

The production was also a reminder that music and the performing arts have long been part of life at Northcote High. From early orchestras and annual school concerts to plays, musicals and contemporary student performances, the stage has provided generations of students with opportunities to contribute, collaborate and share their talents with the community. 

Twenty years later, as we celebrate our Centenary, that tradition continues. 

Looking ahead: The Centenary Concert 

On Thursday 27 August, current students and alumni will come together for the Northcote High School Centenary Concert, a special evening of music and performing arts celebrating the creativity of our school community. 

We will also be delighted to welcome students and staff from our sister school, Huaibei No. 1 High School in China, who will be visiting Northcote as part of a relationship extending across more than 25 years. 

Just as Northside Story marked the school’s 80th anniversary through performance, the Centenary Concert will celebrate the talent of today’s students while recognising the generations that came before them. Further information about the program and arrangements for the evening will be shared soon.