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.
Latest Blog
It's a numbers game, making mathematics mainstream
Term 2 has been a busy one in the Mathematics department; from multiple year levels having extended assessment tasks to competitions run inside and outside the School. Using mathematical equations to recreate artwork The Year 11 Mathematical Methods students got a chance to be very creative with their assessment - using numbers to reproduce artwork. The boys visited the 2024 Grammar Art Show in Term 1 and were given the task to reproduce a chosen work using their knowledge of mathematical…
Bucolic beginnings, boarding and becoming a bowel surgeon
Coming from a cattle property near Injune I was in awe of the School’s ovals with lush, green grass and immaculate facilities. I found being able to throw yourself around and not risk skin cuts and grazes quite novel. Sharing the same field where many Old Boys and past heroes trotted was inspirational. I found the comradery among the boarders my most overwhelming memory. It was like having 60 brothers with similar interests all living under the same roof. There was always someone around to kick…
Our Other Mother
Meet Ms Janelle Fletcher, the House Mum of Corfe, whose journey at TGS began back in 1992 as an instrumental music teacher. Her story is one of deep connections, love for the arts and an unshakeable bond with the students of TGS. From the time that Janelle first stepped onto campus and shared her musical talents with young minds to now creating her own “mum moments” in Corfe — she has nurtured a profound sense of community and established connections that have lasted through generations. Her…
Fostering a creative generation and getting exhibited at GoMA
2023 Visual Arts student Ben Rosenberg (TGS 2019-2023) had his film “Mitchell” selected and it's now on display as part of the 2024 Creative Generation Excellence Awards in Visual Art at GoMA. For 30 years the Awards have recognised and promoted excellence in senior visual art education throughout Queensland schools. Secondary schools typically enter the work of up to four Senior students. Previous winners from TGS include Sam McCosker (2013) and Austin Reed (2017). Ben is a filmmaker and…
In memory of Light Horse Field Ambulances
Toowoomba Grammar School would like to acknowledge our admiration for the loyalty, service and bravery exhibited by TGS Old Boys who so valiantly served. We are all the beneficiaries of their sacrifice, and their selfless actions continue to inspire a spirit of service amongst our current students. Today we focus on the contribution of one TGS Old Boy who made a significant contribution to World War I. Here is some of the incredible story of Major Avery, DSO and if you visit the School Museum…
New Caledonia, new horizons and travel through an educational lens
The opportunity to travel not only opens doors to new experiences but also fosters an increased intercultural understanding and empathy, both essential qualities for navigating and existing within our diverse world. For a group of language students travelling to New Caledonia, our recent French Language and Cultural Tour was a unique opportunity for such experiential learning, where language acquisition went beyond just learning vocabulary and grammar - and instead became a gateway to connect…
Erik Sheppard - making TGS Army Cadet Unit history
The 2024 Dining in Night was made even more special with the appointment of the first Toowoomba Grammar School Army Cadet Unit (TGS ACU) Regimental Sergeant Major, Warrant Officer Class 1 (WO1) Erik Sheppard who was awarded his rank and pace stick by the 16th Battalion Commanding officer MAJ (AAC) Gary MacLachlan. WO1 Sheppard enlisted in the TGS ACU just before the COVID shutdown in 2020. Although this was not the ideal way to begin a cadet career, he was able to adapt and overcome the virtual…
The Big Six Reading Tips
Unlocking Literacy - The Big Six Elements for Your Child’s Reading Success Literacy skills are a core component of each day for our students, and parents often ask how they can support this from home. I am delighted to share with our parent community the essential components that underpin successful reading development. These elements, known as the Big Six, provide a solid foundation for your son’s literacy journey. These critical building blocks include: Oral Language: Communication skills are…
Boarding - Building Men of Good Character
Over the past five years, we have found one of the most valuable lessons that boarding can teach teenage boys is the ability to self-navigate and overcome challenges. Entering a boarding house is the first time many boarders have stepped away from the comfort and security of their parents and guardians. Although this can be a daunting experience, one of the things that this unfamiliarity creates is the ability to organise yourself. With a larger workload than previous years, a greater number…
