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.
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