NSW Public Schools Sydney Drama Ensembles

Region: Metro, Metropolitan South | Sydney
Years 5 to 12

The NSW Public Schools Sydney Drama Ensembles support students in Years 5 to 12 to develop their skills and experience in drama. Ensembles meet weekly for after-school rehearsals at The Arts Unit, Lewisham. Participation is by audition and open to students enrolled in NSW public schools. The program offers students a pathway to explore and grow their interest in drama within a supportive environment and to perform in drama festivals, gaining practical experience and confidence in their performance skills.
A group of students hold small round lanterns lit up in their hands with other students holding wooden rods stand either side

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Enquiries

Jack Tier
Arts Coordination Officer
[email protected]
0460 005 643

Applications open

Applications for the 2026 Sydney Drama Ensembles are now open.

Applications close on Friday 13 February 2026.

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Auditions

Auditions for the Sydney Drama Ensembles will be held at The Arts Unit, Lewisham on Wednesday 25 and Thursday 26 February 2026. After applications close on Friday 13 February 2026, students will be notified of their allocated audition date via email.

Auditions will be conducted as a full-day workshop. Schools will be advised of participating students so that attendance can be recorded as School Business, in accordance with NSW Department of Education procedures.

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Rehearsals

Students who are accepted will attend weekly rehearsals at The Arts Unit, Lewisham on Wednesdays from 4:30 pm to 6:30 pm. Rehearsals start on Wednesday 11 March 2026 and run until the end of Term 3.

There are three ensembles in the Sydney Drama Ensembles program:

  • Primary Drama Ensemble – Years 5 and 6
  • Junior Drama Ensemble – Years 7 and 8
  • Senior Drama Ensemble – Years 9 to 12

Each ensemble will work with their tutor to create an original, group-devised performance, developed collaboratively through brainstorming, improvisation, and the exploration of ideas, images, and themes. This process encourages creativity and teamwork, allowing students to shape characters, scenes, and narratives together to produce a unique piece that reflects the collective voice of the group.

Successful applicants must make a full commitment to the program.

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Fees

$350 per year

The fee covers the cost of regular tutors and industry professionals for workshops, as well as costumes for ensemble performances. Students will need to pay for any travel or accommodation if needed. All prices include GST.

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Performance opportunities

Sydney Drama Ensembles will participate in regional drama festivals across metropolitan Sydney. They will also audition for the State Drama Festival.

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Gallery

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All Arts Unit programs are inclusive. If support is required to participate in the NSW Public Schools Sydney Drama Ensembles, please email [email protected] so that we can assist.