Our boys at Toowoomba Grammar School are fortunate that Performing Arts is as popular as sport and academics, thanks to our culture of respect and inclusivity. Boys are supported and encouraged to immerse themselves in music, drama and art and are not afraid to chase their dreams in these fields.

The success of our performing arts students dates back decades, with our Old Boys performing all around the world in theatre, music, film and photography and are accomplished and well recognised in their respective disciplines. This tradition has continued, and we have some very recent graduates who will be ones to watch in the years to come.

Sean Johnston (2014-18) was often referred to by staff as the “Hugh Jackman of TGS” and he is well on his way to living up to that reputation. After completing his three-year Bachelor of Musical Theatre with the Queensland Conservatorium of Music in 2021, Sean secured the coveted role as Danny in the musical Grease at QPac and then Sky Rymand in The ShowCo production of Mama Mia on the Gold Coast. But his real claim to fame was playing Link Larkin in the eight-month national tour of Hairspray with Cross Roads Live which just concluded in April. Sean was working alongside some of Australia’s favourite performers including, Shane Jacobson, Todd McKenney and Rhonda Burchmore.

“That was next level,” laughed Sean.

“They have a wealth of knowledge and were so willing to give their time which was awesome. I learnt so much from watching them and having conversations with them.”

He also recently finished filming a Copper Tone sunscreen commercial for US television.

“It is quite surreal to have had such big roles so early in my career, but I have a long way to go and still lots of work to do,” stated Sean.

Like a true Grammarian, Sean remains humble about his success, mixing it with the stars certainly has not gone to his head. He is currently at home in Toowoomba, helping his parents around the house while attending auditions for his next gig; be it theatre, film or TV.

He credits the TGS Performing Arts Department staff for his success.

“I learnt so much more than other high school students, there’s things the staff taught me that I still use in the professional world, and I’ve discovered other people starting out didn’t have access to that advice,” said Sean.

Harrison Mills (2015-21) is currently in his second year at the prestigious National Institute of Dramatic Art (NIDA), studying a Bachelor of Fine Arts – Acting. He was one of only 24 students accepted to the program in 2021, outperforming thousands of hopefuls.

“I absolutely love it,” said Harrison.

“Every day I learn something new that you wouldn’t expect.”

Harrison hopes to develop networks through NIDA and sign with an agent shortly and is keen to learn as much as he can from as many people as possible.

“I am really drawn to theatre, because it’s so beautiful how you can apply different techniques, the purist form of acting is on the stage, but TV and film is great too, I’d love those opportunities too,” said Harrison.

He believes that his time in boarding at TGS really helped prepare him for life after school, particularly his time management and independence. And, like Sean, he has a heartfelt thanks to the staff for their support and guidance.

“I didn’t have a full appreciation of how wonderful our Performing Arts program was until looking back on it now,” stated Harrison.

Julian Lachmund (2008-20) is currently in his third and final year at the Queensland Conservatorium of Music in Brisbane, studying a Bachelor of Music, majoring in violin performance.

“It’s been a challenge, but that’s been a good thing,” said Julian.

“There are a lot of very talented musicians, so it’s been great to work with people of this calibre.”

Playing in the University Symphony Orchestra has been a highlight for Julian, and he enjoys being surrounded by like-minded people with the same passion.

“I had such great support from the TGS staff in the performing arts area,” Julian reflected.

“They offered great insight with rehearsal etiquette and that has really helped me at university.”

He is still considering his future after university and will possibly go on to a teaching degree with the aim of becoming a music teacher.

“I could see myself coming back to TGS one day to teach,” he laughed.

Ryan Murphy (2012–22) was one of only four aspiring young actors across Australia to be awarded the prestigious John Bell Scholarship in January 2023 with renowned theatre company Bell Shakespeare. Ryan spent time with the actors and director and learnt about the workings of theatre productions. He also attended master classes in history, fight choreography and learnt about language and speech. The course culminated with Ryan performing a Macbeth soliloquy for his peers.

“It was great, they were so supportive, and I learnt so much,” said Ryan excitedly.

He is currently studying a Bachelor of Music Theatre at the Elder Conservatorium, University of Adelaide.

“I’m living the dream, it’s so wonderful,” said Ryan enthusiastically.

“Who wouldn’t want to sing, dance and act five days a week, I’m doing what I love, and I couldn’t ask for anything more.”

Ryan will graduate in 2025 and is considering getting a Masters in Directing with the ultimate aim of performing or directing theatre.

“I like playing off an audience,” said Ryan.

“There’s something to be said about the power of live theatre, the ability to perform to people on stage; you see them and can see their reactions.”

He is grateful for the opportunities provided to him during his time at TGS, in the music and drama programs.

“I would not be here without doing the school musicals and the teachers nurturing me and seeing that I had some potential, believing in me – I wouldn’t be here without them,” said Ryan emphatically.

“The love I have for theatre all stems from that and my time at TGS.”

Hamish Wells (TGS 2014-21) is at the National Institute of Dramatic Art (NIDA) studying a Diploma in Musical Theatre.

“This is one of the greatest experiences of my life, learning under so many industry professionals and the greats of musical theatre,” bubbled Hamish.

Hamish has his first major production, Sweeney Todd in July and when he graduates at the end of the year, he is considering a Bachelor in Fine Arts at NIDA or WAPA (West Australian Performing Arts).

He would never rule out the possibility of a career in film or TV, but his passion lies with theatre.

“I like that you only get one chance for the performance, there are no retakes,” said Hamish.

“And I love the thrill of interacting and immersing with the audience. The smallest decision as an actor can really move an audience. Theatre is more impactful than people realise.”

TGS singing tutors and performing arts staff have had a huge impact on Hamish’s success so far.

“The support, advice and the opportunities they presented – without that I would be lacking – I think these are what has driven me further and helped open the doors for me,” said Hamish adamantly.

We are so proud of our performing arts students, the boys who we knew before they were stars.

TiGAA perform at the Empire Theatre

Latest Blog

Boarding
/
Wednesday, 19 July 2023

Developing a Sense of Belonging for our TGS Boarders

How do we adequately develop a teenager’s 'sense of belonging' in boarding? Head of Boyce House, Boarding, Mr Michael Hall has investigated how 'Maslow's Hierarchy of Needs' applies to boarding. It is a psychological theory that suggests human beings have a set of fundamental needs that must be fulfilled in a hierarchical order. The theory proposes that individuals must first satisfy their physiological needs before moving on to higher-level needs, such as the 'belongingness' that is so…

Read More
Teaching Excellence
/
Wednesday, 12 July 2023

Kia Moemoeā – Dream Beyond Limits

A 12-year study has found that boys consistently perform better in an all boys’ school compared to boys in co-educational schools. This was one of several interesting topics presented at the recent International Boys’ Schools Coalition (IBSC) Conference in Auckland, New Zealand which I attended alongside three of my Toowoomba Grammar School colleagues – Mr Luke Rawle, Mr Dave Klan and Mrs Jessica Galbraith. We joined 600 leading educators from 15 countries around the world for the four-day…

Read More
Grammar 150
/
Thursday, 06 July 2023

Blue and Gold in the Blood

“I had such fond memories from the School and enjoyed all the opportunities available, particularly participating in sport and learning at such a high level; my sons were going to have the same great education,” said Chris adamantly. Chris was a boarder from Dalby and an “all-rounder” as a student. He was part of the 1st XV, a CUO in the Cadets, a member of the debating team, involved in drama (featuring in two plays during his time) and a good academic student. “I really enjoyed boarding,”…

Read More
Teaching & Learning
/
Tuesday, 27 June 2023

The Benefits of Repeated Reading

An effective and evidence-based method that can significantly improve your child's reading abilities is repeated reading. Reading proficiency is a vital skill that sets the foundation for academic success and lifelong learning. Repeated reading, a simple yet powerful technique, has been proven to enhance reading fluency, comprehension, and overall confidence. Let's delve into why repeated reading is such a beneficial practice for your child. Research consistently supports the benefits of…

Read More
General
/
Thursday, 22 June 2023

Print v Digital

I recently read an article by Petra Stock, entitled "Streaming Stories: Will Children’s Digital Book Platforms Upend Print", an interesting discussion comparing ebooks and print media and the ways they are being used during and post COVID. Which is better according to the article? Well, there is a clear winner; however, like many things, the answer can depend on the situation. I'd like to break elements of the article down, along with my own thoughts and compare the two. Social…

Read More
Teaching Excellence
/
Wednesday, 14 June 2023

Striking a Balance

We understand that, as parents, we aspire to provide our children with the best education and opportunities for growth. Within the Junior School at Toowoomba Grammar School, we believe in fostering a love for learning while enabling your son to reach his full potential. In this article, we would like to emphasise the significance of automaticity and basic skill practice in extending your child's learning journey, while emphasising the importance of respecting their individual pace. Automaticity…

Read More
Sports & Activities
/
Wednesday, 07 June 2023

Developing Sportsmanship from Prep

Overwhelming pride in wearing the Blue and Gold is a familiar emotion for Toowoomba Grammar School students, as is abundantly evident in all our boys, from Prep to Year 12. This emotion and passion for the School is the essence of our TGS culture and defines what it means to be a TGS student. The launch of the 2022 - 2026 Strategic Plan creates an exciting opportunity for our co-curricular program, which links perfectly into the "character and wellbeing" pillar. The development of good…

Read More
The Arts
/
Thursday, 01 June 2023

Why Study Drama?

As an educator with over 30 years’ experience in the Arts, I specialise in the analytical, creative and practical spheres that quantify and qualify success in drama. I have been a Drama teacher and Arts Project Officer in the Independent, Catholic, state, and private sectors in primary and secondary, single sex and co-educational environments. This longevity of knowledge, gained through firsthand experience, affirms that students who study drama through until at least Year 10 acquire…

Read More
Grammar 150
/
Thursday, 01 June 2023

Drive and Determination

Jeremy Peacock is ranked third in the world in the PTS4 Para category and his sights are set on selection for the 2024 Paralympic Games in Paris. During Jeremy’s time at TGS he represented the School in numerous endeavours but was particularly known for his contributions to the Arts, particularly Music. On the sports field, Jeremy represented TGS in GPS Athletics, Cross Country, Cricket and Football. After returning from a gap year in the UK teaching music at Port Regis School, Dorset, Jeremy…

Read More