Arts

West Side Story was a triumph. This classic retelling of Romeo and Juliet transported audiences across all four performances with its passion, spectacle and emotional depth. The electrifying energy of the Jets and Sharks showcased how dance and acting can work in tandem to communicate gang rivalry and tension. Indeed, the choreography, led by the creative vision of Mr Dylan Dickson, elevated the storytelling to another level through vivid and dynamic sequences. ‘Dance at the Gym’ quickly became a cast and audience favourite; nine minutes of breathtaking mambo, dance battles, lifts and colour that brought the stage to life.

Leads Riley and Eva brought a fresh urgency and sincerity to Tony and Maria. Their portrayal of these star-crossed lovers moved audiences deeply; we cared so profoundly for these characters that the final tragic scenes were met with tears and applause in equal measure.

Of course, one of the most enduring and impressive aspects of this musical is its iconic score. Above the action onstage sat a magnificent 32-piece live orchestra, whose presence added extraordinary richness and scale to the production. Mr Robert Latham’s music direction and remarkable attention to detail brought every percussive beat, romantic string line and soaring brass section vividly to life for the audience to both hear and feel.

However, the true heart of the show was its dynamic and generous cast. Led by outstanding Drama Captains Arabella, Tyler, Lia and Riley, this group of young performers embraced every challenge with professionalism, commitment and an enduring sense of play.

In the Drama Department, we often speak about the importance of “serving the show.” That is, contributing to something larger than ourselves. Anyone who experienced the unanimous standing ovations across the final performances could feel that collective spirit. It was a powerful reminder of how art and storytelling can transport us and bring a community together. While the story itself embraces the pathos of tragedy, the experience shared by the cast, orchestra, crew and audiences was nothing short of uplifting.

Music

Anzac Day, and the ceremonies that formally recognise the sacrifice made by those who served in times of conflict, remains one of the most important occasions on the Australian calendar. As I have often reflected in previous Insight newsletters, music often plays a unique and powerful role in community life, not only in celebration and entertainment, but also in remembrance, ceremony and commemoration. This year’s Melbourne Anzac Day City March again highlighted the important role musicians play in helping communities honour tradition and service.

Haileybury was proudly represented in this year’s City parade by two outstanding ensembles: Haileybury Drum and Bugle Corps. Both groups performed with great professionalism, respect and pride throughout the event, representing the School and wider community with distinction.

What stood out just as strongly as the students’ performances was the extraordinary support shown by the Haileybury community. Events on this scale require a tremendous collective effort, and the goodwill shown by parents and friends played an enormous part in the success of the day. Families managed early morning starts, transport across Melbourne, parking, uniforms, instruments and countless logistical details, all while encouraging and supporting their children to participate in such a significant civic occasion. The generosity and spirit shown by our families reflected the strength of the Haileybury community and reinforced the deep sense of pride that exists within the School.

The Haileybury Bugle Corps was led by brass tutor Mr David Robinson. A Corporal in the Army Reserve, Mr Robinson has performed the ‘Last Post’ and ‘Reveille’ at the Melbourne Shrine Dawn Service and is regularly involved in AFL and A-League Anzac commemorations. This year he performed as the bugler at the Richmond v Melbourne Anzac Eve match, and the Sunday St Kilda v West Coast match (before travelling to Keysborough for rehearsals with the orchestra for our West Side Story production). His dedication to both music and service continues to provide an outstanding example to our students.

Haileybury Pipes & Drums, led by Daniel Staley, again demonstrated why this ensemble is held in such high regard both within and beyond the School community. Having travelled internationally and achieved success in numerous competitions, the ensemble brought a strong sense of tradition, discipline and reverence to the parade. Their contribution to Anzac Day was deeply moving and a source of great pride for Haileybury.

The day ultimately served as a reminder of the remarkable culture that exists within our community. Students performed with maturity and commitment, staff gave generously of their time and expertise, and parents provided unwavering support behind the scenes.

Thank you and well done to all.

Rod Marshall
Director of Performing Arts & Head of Haileybury Music

Visual Arts

Young Archies - Honourable Mention

Congratulations to Panya for the incredible achievement of being recognised with an Honourable Mention for the 13–15 year old category for the painting My Brother.

In 2026, the Young Archies competition received more than 4,350 submissions, resulting in 70 finalists and 20 honourable mentions. Artworks receiving an honourable mention are displayed online on the Art Gallery of New South Wales website and, since 2014, at Sydney’s SH Ervin Gallery. You can see Panya’s work amongst the finalists here: Young Archie competition finalists 2026 | Art Gallery of NSW

This is a portrait of my brother, based on a photo taken one sunny day when he smiled at the camera. I wanted to show the warmth he brings into my life. While painting him, I focused on the light and shadow of his glasses on his face. I aimed to show the confidence in his expression. This painting is my way to celebrate who he is: someone who is thoughtful and will always be there when I need him.

Please keep an eye out for the next opportunity to enter the Young Archie Competition in late November 2026.

Units 3 and 4 Visual Communication Design excursion

The Haileybury Unit 3 Visual Communication Design students from the City, Berwick, Brighton, Keysborough and Pangea campuses recently had the opportunity to visit the inspiring 2026 Top Designs exhibition at Melbourne Museum and tour the studio of Architectus, a leading architectural design practice based in Melbourne’s CBD.

At the Top Designs exhibition, students explored exemplar 2025 VCE Visual Communication Design Units 3 and 4 folios. This provided valuable insight into high quality design work and helped students develop a deeper understanding of the design process, supporting them as they begin developing their own folios.

In the afternoon, students visited the Architectus studio, where they were given the opportunity to experience a professional design environment and learn more about contemporary architectural practice. Architects from the firm shared their personal career journeys and discussed the diverse pathways available within the design industry. Students were particularly engaged by discussions surrounding recent major projects, including the Haileybury Brighton Year 9 Building and a Performing Arts development, as well as thought provoking conversations about sustainability, the future of architecture, and the increasingly important role design thinking will play in future careers.

A highlight of the excursion was the guided studio tour, which gave students a behind the scenes look at the day-to-day operations of an architectural practice. Many students left feeling inspired, asking thoughtful questions and beginning to see architecture as an exciting and achievable career pathway.

We are also pleased to share that Architectus has expressed interest in offering a limited number of work experience opportunities for Haileybury students.

Rachelle Rae
Head of Visual Arts Senior School

Pipes & Drums

The Pipes & Drums began Term 2 with a busy and meaningful week of Anzac Day services.

At the commencement of Term 2, the band wore their ceremonial uniform to perform at the annual Anzac Day service at Rendall Oval in Keysborough. The band opened proceedings and stood at attention as the fallen Old Haileyburians who served in the war were named and honoured for their service.

Our Brighton-based pipers also performed at the Anzac Day service at the Castlefield campus, delivering an emotional rendition of ‘Amazing Grace’ to commence the ceremony.

On Friday, the Pipes & Drums formed a Guard of Honour for the Boys Firsts home football match, the first of the season. We always value the opportunity to support Haileybury’s sporting teams and hope our performance added to the energy and excitement of the game.

On Anzac Day itself, the band assembled at the Keysborough campus at 6.30 am before departing for the annual parade in the city. The 1.2 kilometre march included several students participating for the first time. We are honoured to take part in this significant and historic event each year.

Our Senior Band is now gearing up for the much-anticipated Haileybury Ball on 23 May. Set to open the evening, the band will bring a fresh and exciting repertoire that promises to set the tone for a fantastic night. With plenty of energy, new music and hours of preparation behind them, our students are ready to deliver a standout performance and make this year’s Ball truly unforgettable.

Daniel Staley
Director of Pipes & Drums