Hunter School of the Performing Arts

PERFORMING AT OUR BEST

Telephone02 4952 3355

Emailhuntperfor-h.school@det.nsw.edu.au

Drama

Studying Drama helps us understand ourselves, our society and our world - it helps us collaborate, create, critique and become confident actors on and off the stage  Dr. Kath Leahy

Links

2025 Performance Opportunities

Why study at HSPA?

As the states only fully selective performing arts school, HSPA offers students the opportunity to be around like-minded students who are supportive, creative and collaborative. Curriculum is delievered in an experiential way that allows students to embody their learning. Having the opportunity to participate in Drama classes from Year 7. Along with this, the number of Drama electives on offer is an unparrallelled benefit to our students.

The co-curricular opportunities are also something that not mirrored at any other school. Students have periods dedicated to extending skills and passion in their artform. They also are a part of multiple performances each year.

Drama students at HSPA attend classes in our high-tech, state of the art and high tech Drama Studios that can also be turned into performances spaces. We also have classes in the Green Room of our 350 seat proscenium arch Hunter Theatre. Using these professional spaces allows students to thrive with creativity.

Faculty Goals

  • Create opportunities to extend creativity through collaboration, communication and critical reflection. 
  • Provide co-curricular programs that enhances learning experiences.
  • Build industry and community connections that continue post school.
  • Offer a variety of Drama choices led by experienced staff.

Subjects

Stage 4

Y7 Drama Performing Arts 

Y8 Drama Performing Arts 

Y8 Project Based Learning: Musical Theatre, Improvisation, Acting for Screen

Stage 5

Y9 Drama Performing Arts

Y9 Project Based Learning: Musical Theatre, Screen Acting, Directing & Scriptwriting

Y10 Drama Performing Arts

Y10 Project Based Learning: Musical Theatre, Screen Acting, Directing & Scriptwriting

Stage 6

Preliminary Drama

HSC Drama

Opportunities in Drama at HSPA

  • REACH - A period a week with industry professionals
  • Semester Showcase- Each semester all Drama students perform in the state of the art Hunter Theatre
  • Junior Production
  • Senior Production
  • Whole school musical
  • Starstruck
  • Junior Theatre Festival - Musical Theatre competition
  • Sharp Short Festival- Playwrighting and performing competition
  • Sport for Jove Shakespeare Festival
  • Theatresports competition
  • Industry professional workshops
  • Interstate/International Drama excursions
  • Year 12 Drama Camp
  • Attendance at live theatre events
  • State Drama Camp
  • Drama Mentoring Program
  • Young Wharfies
  • HSC Study Day
  • Termly Year Assemblies 

Drama Blacks – Required Attire for Drama Students

To maintain professionalism and unity in our Drama program, all students are required to wear "drama blacks" for assessments and performances. This includes:

Short-Sleeve, Round-Neck Black Shirt (Available as the “Performance Black T-Shirt” in the uniform shop or any plain black shirt with no logos/patterns)

  • Long Black Pants (No logos or patterns)
  • All-Black Shoes & Black Socks

Why Drama Blacks?

Focus & Unity: Eliminates distractions and enhances ensemble work.

Professionalism: Ensures a polished appearance for performances.

Practicality: Supports lighting design and highlights expressions/movements.

When Is It Required?

All drama assessments throughout the year

Showcase performances, including Reach Showcase nights

Need Help?

A limited supply of loan items is available for emergencies, but students are encouraged to have their own set for a consistent fit.

Staff Members & Email Links

The HSPA Drama staff bring an array of experience both as teachers and industry professionals. Staff have extensive experience in the Drama HSC as well as talents in directing, producing and scriptwriting shows.

At HSPA, we value the balance between work and personal time for our staff and families. As part of our commitment to wellbeing, we have set clear guidelines for digital communication. Please remember that our staff, as per Department of Education policy, will not be expected to respond to non-emergency communications outside of school hours, ensuring they have time to recharge and focus on providing the best educational experience for our students.

Megan Lubinski HEAD TEACHER

Rosalia Kennedy

Andrew O'Callaghan

Katie Tennyson