Greater Western Sydney drama ensembles
Greater Western Sydney drama ensembles (GWS drama ensembles) are open to talented and interested drama students in Years 4 to 12 from NSW public schools.
The ensembles provide an engaging and supportive environment in which students are provided with the opportunity to be challenged and extended in their knowledge and skills of drama. Students will have the opportunity to work with industry drama practitioners and teachers from the NSW Department of Education to refine and develop their performance skills.
In 2025 there are 2 drama ensembles:
- Greater Western Sydney Junior Drama Ensemble for students in Years 5 to Year 8
- Greater Western Sydney Senior Drama Ensemble for students in Years 9 to Year 12.
Both ensembles rehearse from 12 pm to 4 pm on four Saturdays in Term 2 and are eligible to be nominated for regional and state drama festivals, including LightsUP Drama Festival Penrith.
Enquiries
158-240 High St
Penrith NSW 2750
Australia
2025 ensemble dates
The following dates are for all students participating in the both GWS drama ensembles. If you have any concerns about attending all of the rehearsals and performances, please contact the program coordinator.
Rehearsals
12 pm to 4 pm
- Saturday 3 May 2025 (Term 2 Week 1)
- Saturday 17 May 2025 (Term 2 Week 3)
- Saturday 31 May 2025 (Term 2 Week 5)
- Saturday 7 June 2025 (Term 2 Week 6)
Venue
Penrith Selective High School
Performances
Greater Western Sydney junior and senior drama ensembles
LightsUP drama festival, Penrith – Thursday 19 June 2025 (Term 2 Week 8)
NB: Several other performance opportunities may arise. The drama ensembles will be considered for the State Drama festival in Term 4 Week 2. If successful, additional rehearsals may be scheduled.
Applications
Online applications for 2025 are now open. Applications close Friday 28 March 2025 (Term 1 Week 9).
Students will be notified of their acceptance by Friday 4 April 2025 (Term 1 Week 10).
Closing date for acceptances is Thursday 10 April 2025 (Week 11 Term 1)
Cost
- $200 per student
- Payment will be made through The Arts Unit student payment portal
- Payment will not be required until Term 2 2025.
All Arts Unit programs are inclusive. If support is required to participate in the Greater Western Sydney drama ensembles, please email lily.ferres@det.nsw.edu.au so that we can assist.
