Theatre 

Our Productions and Plays 

 Tashi O'Neill, Year 12, Ridgeway Campus

Being a part of the school play, Shakespeare’s A Midsummer Night’s Dream, was one of the most interesting, fun and developmental activities I have ever done with this school. Every person in this show had to extend themselves beyond what they thought they could do, finding new aspects of their character to portray and develop through Shakespeare’s (albeit impossible-to-understand) language. 

In this show a group of young lovers and a troupe of amateur actors get tangled up in the magic of a mischievous fairy world, leading to mix-ups, transformations and a series of chaotic but ultimately joyful resolutions. This was a show that was recontextualised onto a post-apocalyptic backdrop, revealing an insightful and complex undertone. 

This production involved students across all year levels, including people who are well invested in the Theatre Program, as well as others joining for their first performance ever. I can tell you firsthand that nothing bonds a group of people more than going through the rehearsal process, especially the tech week of a show – and this one in particular. It gives every person a chance to meet students from other year levels; incredible people we would otherwise not get the opportunity to know. 

With so many incredible occasions upcoming in the next few years, two musicals and a play every 12 months, participating in this program is an unbelievable opportunity that should not be passed up. At this time in your life, with so many doors open to you, whether you adore theatre or couldn’t even say what the word means, why not give it a try? This community is so welcoming and provides incredible support to anyone and everyone looking to try their hand at acting.  

Poppy & Abi, Year 9, University Campus

Our School’s recent production of A Midsummer Night’s Dream brought together students from across year levels to perform one of William Shakespeare’s most famous comedies. Filled with humour, magical mishaps and memorable characters, the performance was the result of weeks of dedication, teamwork, and creativity from both the cast and crew. 

For many students involved, the rehearsal period was where the real journey began. One performer described the process by saying, 'The rehearsal process was a fun and engaging experience for me and the rest of the cast'. Rehearsals required commitment and patience as students worked together to learn their lines, practice stage movement, and refine scenes so they flowed naturally during the performance. 

Like any large production, challenges arose along the way. Whether off or on stage, minor or major roles, each one is equally important to the play, which was why it was important for everyone to put in their best. Reflecting on this, one cast member shared, 'I had a lot of downtime, but it was hard to focus because there was a lot of noise and I was in a distracting environment'. Overcoming these challenges helped students grow more confident and comfortable in the environment.  

Beyond the performance itself, the experience left a lasting impact on the students involved. School productions give students opportunities to develop creativity, confidence, and teamwork outside the classroom. As one participant reflected, 'This experience was unforgettable, and I made so many new memories, friends and learned a lot about myself too'. Experiences like this allow students to connect with others and explore talents they might not otherwise discover. 

For many, the memories made during rehearsals and performances will last long after the final curtain closed. When asked to summarise the experience in just one sentence, a student responded, 'An incredible experience in which I made a lot of new friends, new memories, and fun experiences!' This simple reflection captures the excitement and pride felt by those who took part.  

Perhaps most importantly, being involved in the production helped students learn valuable lessons about performance, dedication, and collaboration. Reflecting on this, one participant shared, 'I learnt how much it takes to put together a play – how much work, dedication, commitment, and time you need to spend after hours and behind the scenes to perform your best'. These lessons highlight how school theatre is not just about entertainment, but also about growth and learning.  

In the end, the success of the production was not only measured by the audience’s applause, but also by the friendships formed, skills developed, and memories created along the way. Through hard work and teamwork, the cast and crew successfully brought Shakespeare’s magical world to life on stage. 

Tashi O'Neill & Ella Bryden, Year 12, Ridgeway Campus

It has been over a year since our last full-scale musical, and we could not be more excited to return with a show this spectacular. Set in 1920s Chicago, this iconic musical follows Roxie Hart, a fame-hungry dreamer who shoots her lover and lands in Cook County Jail alongside the notorious Velma Kelly. The two rivals compete for the spotlight and the services of slick defense attorney Billy Flynn, while hapless husband Amos and the iron-fisted Mama Morton round out this darkly comic whirlwind of murder and showbiz. 

Rehearsals have just kicked off, and the energy is already electric. Chicago is a very different kind of show to anything we have staged before; bold, slick, and dripping in 1920s glamour. From the moody lighting and stripped-back staging to the stunning costumes, think feathers, fishnets and sharp tailoring, every element of this production has been designed to feel like a step into another world. With our fantastic band on stage and iconic songs like 'All That Jazz' and 'Cellblock Tango', this is set to be an unforgettable night. Keep an eye out for tickets in the coming months, bring your jazz hands, and we will see you there.