Elisabeth Murdoch College

Elisabeth Murdoch College offers a vibrant Performing Arts and Drama pathway as part of its Specialist Program for secondary students. The college blends academic education with vocational and creative performance training across Years 10–12. Students engage in drama, musical theatre, and dance courses alongside standard VCE, VCAL, and VET offerings—preparing them for tertiary arts study or entry into industry programs.

Practical performance is built into the school’s culture. Each year, students create and perform in full-scale musicals, theatrical productions, dance showcases, and ensemble pieces. These experiences take place in the college’s professional-grade Performing Arts Centre, which includes a 400-seat auditorium managed in partnership with the local community. Capsulizing everything from auditions to backstage prep, the program develops real-world skills in performance, production, and public presentation.

The teaching model emphasizes experiential learning: students study acting technique, voice, movement, script analysis, and ensemble creation—often in workshop and rehearsal settings. Vocational Education & Training (VET) courses such as Certificate II or III in Acting (Screen) also enable students to earn recognized credentials while still in high school. The integration of careers guidance and academic mentoring ensures students plan purposeful pathways in performance, film, or theatre.

Community and industry engagement are central. Guest practitioners, playback theatre ensembles, and regional arts organizations frequently visit EMC to support student showcases or master‑class activities. The school also operates theatre programs for middle‑school outreach and invites families and local audiences to engage with student work—strengthening both confidence and community visibility.

Graduates of the Performing Arts pathway leave Elisabeth Murdoch College with a strong foundation in theatre performance, a practical show portfolio, and nationally recognized VET certificates. Many continue their study in acting, musical theatre, or film at performing arts institutions or universities. With its blend of academic and vocational support, EMC offers an immersive, production-driven preparation for aspiring young performers.