Performing Arts
The Autumn Play workshop- a joyous triumph and West Side Story tickets on sale now
What a celebration of creativity, collaboration and sheer theatrical joy! Our inaugural Autumn Play, The Seussification of Romeo and Juliet, was a resounding success, with students performing to full houses each evening in the vibrant Aikman Reverse Stage. Bursting with colour, comedy and energy, the production had audiences clapping along to the infectious ‘80s and ‘90s-inspired soundtrack, and even joining in for a spontaneous Macarena.
It was particularly exciting to see so many of our Year 9 and 10 students make their Senior School drama debut, rising to the occasion with confidence and flair. Our Year 12 Drama Captains led by example, fostering a spirit of collaboration that was evident throughout the rehearsal process and performances.
We were also privileged to work with green room award winner, Artist in Residence Alister Smith. Not only did Alister shape the Autumn Play but also mentored student Riley in preparation for his lead role as Tony in our upcoming production of West Side Story.
Indeed, over the holidays, Aikman Hall was transformed into the epic urban world of New York. On their return to school students leapt straight into an intense three-day rehearsal process, embracing the challenge with energy and focus; layering details, sharpening storytelling and elevating every moment of the musical.
The result? A visually stunning, high-octane production. Expect vibrant costumes, dynamic choreography and a breathtaking stage picture, featuring a 32-piece live orchestra on stage.
What truly sets this show apart is the spirit behind it. This remarkable company has collaborated with infectious joy, dedication and unity in every beat, every step and every note. It is a production not to be missed.
Music
You will have hopefully seen and read about the upcoming Senior School production of West Side Story.
The student cast, under the leadership of Ms Nicole Smith, Mr Dylan Dickson and Mr Robert Latham, has worked with incredible determination and focus since last year. More than 200 hours of cast rehearsal has already taken place. The work of all those on stage has been extraordinary.
This article focuses on the contribution that will be made by instrumental music staff as the live accompanying orchestra for each performance of the show. I am always so proud of the collegial and collective spirit within our department, and this production has showcased that spirit at its very best.
Opening this Wednesday, 29 April, music staff take on the considerable challenge of performing this iconic score in Aikman Hall. First appearing on Broadway in 1957, the work, by the legendary composer Leonard Bernstein, remains one of the most demanding and sophisticated scores ever written for music theatre. Its rhythmic complexity, stylistic diversity and relentless energy require not only technical mastery, but deep musical understanding and unwavering concentration.
Our orchestra brings together more than 30 staff members, many of whom are Melbourne’s in-demand professional orchestral and music theatre musicians. In addition to their individual expertise, what has stood out throughout rehearsals is the shared commitment to collaboration. The goodwill, flexibility and professionalism demonstrated by every player has been remarkable, as everyone balances busy schedules while dedicating countless hours to preparation.
This is not an easy score for any musician. Each part is exposed, intricate and essential to the whole. I know that all staff have been practising diligently in anticipation of rehearsals and the show’s opening. Their dedication is evident in every note.
Under the inspiring leadership of conductor Robert Latham, the ensemble has developed a cohesive and vibrant sound that captures both the drama and nuance of Bernstein’s writing. His knowledge has been instrumental in shaping not just the performance, but the shared sense of purpose that defines this project.
We look forward to sharing the results of this extraordinary collective effort with our community as the curtain goes up this Wednesday, Thursday, Friday and Sunday.
Rod Marshall
Director of Performing Arts & Head of Haileybury Music
Visual Arts
Artist in Residence: Ghostpatrol
We are pleased to welcome artist-in-residence Ghostpatrol (David Booth) to Haileybury this term. David will establish a working studio in the Visual Arts Gallery, adjacent to Wings Café in the Keysborough Quad. During Weeks 2 and 3 of Term 2 (Tuesdays and Thursdays), members of the Haileybury community are invited to drop in, meet the artist and contribute ideas for the mural he will be developing.
With the creative process on display, this is a rare opportunity to experience art in action by observing how concepts evolve into imagery and, ultimately, a resolved and cohesive work. In Week 6, David will return to map the design across the 17-metre breezeway wall using VR technology, before bringing the mural to life across the week.
Students and staff are encouraged to visit, observe and engage in conversation as the work unfolds, capturing a contemporary reflection of Haileybury’s creative community.
David Booth, known professionally as Ghostpatrol, is a well-known Melbourne-based artist whose practice spans mural painting, illustration, animation and sculpture. His work often explores imagined worlds and narratives, combining a distinctive graphic style with a sense of play and curiosity, and has been exhibited both nationally and internationally.
Co-curricular Visual Arts Societies: Architecture and Photography
The end of Term 1 marked the conclusion of our summer Visual Arts Societies, culminating in a group exhibition of work developed across the season. The gallery currently features a selection of photographic exercises and series, alongside architectural explorations that connect with the Year 9 Tiny House project and past VCE models.
The exhibition reflects both technical development and conceptual thinking across the disciplines and is open throughout the school day for the community to experience.
Mural Making Society
Coinciding with Ghostpatrol’s residency, we are launching the inaugural Mural Making Society as part of our winter co-curricular program. This new offering provides students with the opportunity to explore mural culture and practice, while contributing to collaborative artworks that will shape the everyday visual experience of the School.
With the group already at capacity, an excursion and spray-painting workshop planned, and the opportunity to collaborate with Ghostpatrol on the Keysborough mural, the term ahead promises to be dynamic, creative and highly visible.
Keep an eye out as new murals begin to take shape across the campus.
Rachelle Rae
Head of Visual Arts Senior School
Pipes & Drums
On Sunday 29 March, our competition bands travelled to Croydon to compete in the Victorian Pipe Band Championships. All three bands delivered fantastic performances, bringing the local Pipes & Drums competition season to a strong and successful close.
During the middle weekend of the school holidays, our A and B Bands then travelled to Perth to compete in the Australian Pipe Band Championships. This trip proved to be an incredible experience for our students, creating lasting memories and friendships.
While in Perth, the bands also performed a concert at the Celtic Club, which was well attended and thoroughly enjoyed by all. Students embraced the opportunity to explore Fremantle as well, visiting the Fremantle Markets and Harbour before heading out for a pre-competition dinner.
A big thank you to all the parents who travelled with the band and supported us on the day, and it was wonderful to have our Patron Mrs Jane Gibbs and her husband Michael in attendance.
As always, we are incredibly proud of our competition bands and the progress our students have made throughout the year.
Our most recent performance was a great honour for participants who took part in the ANZAC Day parade.
Daniel Staley
Director of Pipes & Drums
