The Arts

The Arts at St Mary's College

St Mary's College has a long and proud history in performing arts and we are committed to providing our students with a well-rounded cultural education.

Our philosophy is to encourage disciplined work ethic the boys can be proud of, as well as encouraging involvement in a variety of performance experiences both in-school and out in the wider community.

With programs in drama, visual art, media and music, our students have the opportunity to explore their creativity, express themselves, and develop a lifelong appreciation for the arts. These programs help to cultivate the next generation of creative and culturally-aware young men. 

Cultural Program (Drama, Visual Art & Media)

At St Mary’s College we believe that the arts play an important role in the education of our young men. That’s why we offer a comprehensive cultural program, encompassing the areas of drama, visual art and media.

Drama is a vibrant and integral part of the cultural life at St Mary’s College. Through our dedicated lunchtime program, SMASH - St Mary’s Actors Studio Hub, students are given the opportunity to explore and develop their dramatic talents in a supportive and dynamic environment.

SMASH nurtures creativity and confidence by encouraging participation in key events such as the Toowoomba Eisteddfod, performances in the Duhig Drama Studio, SMC Cultural Night, Presentation Night, and our biennial dramatic production at the ERCC. These experiences not only enhance performance skills but also foster collaboration and camaraderie across year levels.

Students with a passion for both Drama and Music can also take part in the College Musical, a biennial highlight of our Arts program. This major production offers students the chance to shine on stage, build stage presence and grow in confidence while working as part of a professional-style ensemble.

Whether performing for an audience or rehearsing with peers, Drama at St Mary’s empowers students to express themselves, connect with others, and discover their creative potential.

Visual Art is another important aspect of the cultural program at St Mary's College. Throughout the year, we host multiple art exhibitions and competitions, providing our students with the opportunity to display their work and receive recognition for their achievements. These exhibitions showcase the diverse range of styles and mediums that our students are working in and are a celebration of their creativity and talent.

The media program provides our students with the opportunity to explore the world of film-making, photography, and digital media. Our students develop their skills in these areas, gain a deeper understanding of the role that media plays in our society, and have the chance to showcase their work.

The Cultural Showcase is another highlight of the St Mary’s College cultural calendar. This event brings students together from across the school to perform, build their confidence, and showcase their talents. It is a celebration of the creativity and diversity of our students and is a testament to the quality of our dynamic cultural program.

Music Program

Music at St Mary’s College offers every boy the opportunity to pursue his musical interests, to experience music, explore music and develop skills as musicians.

We believe that boys’ personal growth is significantly enhanced through the study of music. Self-confidence, teamwork, self-expression, and creativity are examples of just a few personal characteristics that music study can positively affect. In addition, and perhaps most importantly, a thriving music and artistic culture enriches the lives of all who are a part of the St Mary’s community.

In addition to the Secondary Curricular study of Music, the College offers:

• A Primary Instrumental Program for students in Years 5 and 6 to learn flute, clarinet, trumpet, trombone, percussion, or voice as part of their classroom Music sessions.
• Private tuition conducted during school hours by professional tutors – voice, flute, clarinet, saxophone, trumpet, French horn, trombone, euphonium, tuba, piano, percussion/drums, acoustic/electric/bass guitar.
• Integration into the liturgical, cultural, and social life of the College.
• A thriving co-curricular program.

The St Mary’s College ensembles include:

• Showband (New Orleans Brass Band/Jazz Band)
• Concert Band (Secondary Concert Band)
• Momentum (Junior Concert Band)
• Drumatic (Secondary Drumline)
• Junior Drumline
• Dunne’s Voices (Junior Choir)
• Vernados (Secondary Choir)
• Vibratones (Extension Vocal Ensemble)