Last term, we were proud to build on the existing Musicals Through the Years display outside the MGH to honour 25 years of Middle School Musicals.
Since 1994, the Middle School Musical has been a vibrant celebration of creativity, courage and community, and a much-loved tradition within the School. Across 25 productions, it has brought together students, staff and families in the shared joy of live theatre.
The process begins with selecting a high-quality musical that offers meaningful roles for young performers. Each production is accompanied by a live band, often featuring student musicians. Once the creative team is assembled and auditions are complete, rehearsals, design and planning establish a clear artistic vision before the intensive rehearsal period begins in the first-term holidays.
While audiences see around 60 students on stage, many more contribute behind the scenes in creative and leadership roles. A key aim of the Middle School Musical is to empower students with genuine responsibility, supported by experienced Senior School students who mentor younger performers and technicians.
Through months of rehearsals, students develop confidence, resilience and teamwork as they work towards a shared goal. Lifelong friendships are formed, challenges are overcome and every student plays a vital role in bringing each production to life.
What makes the Middle School Musical so special is not only the consistently high standard of the performances, but the growth of the young people who create them. Behind every production is a remarkable team of dedicated staff, talented musicians, skilled creatives and an extraordinary community of parent volunteers. Together, they wrap each production in the very best elements of theatre, creating the conditions for our young performers to shine.
Across 25 productions, the Middle School Musical has created countless memorable moments. From the inaugural production, The Dreamdoor (1994), and the revival with The Ragged Child (2002), to Into the Woods (2006), Beauty and the Beast (2013), Matilda (2019), Charlie and the Chocolate Factory (2022) and Seussical the Musical (2026), each has added to a proud and enduring tradition.
Although each cast, crew and band work together for just a single term, the impact lasts much longer. For generations of students, the Middle School Musical has been a place to belong, be challenged, discover new talents and experience the magic of creating something extraordinary together.
As we celebrate 25 productions, we honour the students, staff, musicians, families and volunteers who have built this remarkable legacy. Here's to the next generation of performers, storytellers, musicians, technicians and theatre-makers – and to the next 25 productions.
Jane Fernie
Head of Drama and Middle School Musical Director
Feature image: Seussical the Musical, 2026, was Carey's 25th Middle School Musical.
