Top of the Theatre Studies class

Helena Metzke, Marketing Coordinator

From the classroom to the Melbourne Recital Centre stage, two talented Geelong College performers have captured statewide recognition for their creativity, craft, and courage.

The Geelong College is thrilled to announce that two of our exceptional former Theatre Studies students, Annabelle Hutchings (OGC 2024) and Simone De Koning (OGC 2024), were selected to perform in the prestigious Top Class Theatre Studies concert series as part of the VCE Season of Excellence 2025.

Annabelle presented her interpretation of the monologue ‘Ti-Jean and His Brothers’, while Simone showcased ‘His Dark Materials’ at the Melbourne

Recital Centre in March 2025. Their selection to perform in Top Class was a recognition of their remarkable talent, dedication, and the exceptional skill they demonstrated throughout their VCE Theatre Studies journey.

Top Class, an annual event presented by the Victorian Curriculum and Assessment Authority (VCAA), highlights the finest performances from VCE and VCE VET students across Victoria. This year, 60 topperforming students were invited to audition, and only 18 were chosen to perform. Annabelle and Simone’s performances were among the very best, selected for their creativity, depth, and emotional impact. These selections were a testament to their impressive abilities and

the high calibre of talent nurtured at The Geelong College.

Both students were involved in all year level and major productions throughout their time at the College, contributing vitality and much talent in their performances. They were standouts in their Year 12 production of ‘The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee’, developing characters with authenticity and delighting audiences with their intelligent, insightful interpretations. Their musical talents were equally outstanding, dancing and singing in major roles with confidence and flair throughout their Senior School years.

Annabelle and Simone also demonstrated an exceptional understanding of theatre as both performers and designers. Annabelle’s set and costume designs for ‘Ti-Jean and His Brothers’ beautifully captured the world of the play while cleverly linking it to significant issues facing a 2025 audience, highlighting her intellect, compassion and social conscience. Simone’s costume and makeup designs for ‘His Dark Materials’ captured the style of magic realism with finesse, showcasing her keen understanding of theatrical form and style. Their final performances at the Melbourne Recital Centre were nothing short of spectacular. Delivered to a packed audience, Annabelle and Simone earned standing ovations - recognition truly deserved for their artistry and hard work. As Performing Arts teacher Deb Hynes reflected: “It was such a privilege watching them both deliver their performances to a packed audience at the Recital Centre... Bravo Annabelle and Simone.”

Arts Update

THEATRE STUDIES

A ‘Superstar’ visit: Rob Tripolino (OGC 2008)

Our Year 12 Theatre Studies class had the exciting opportunity to welcome back Old Collegian Rob Tripolino (OGC 2008) for a special visit. Fresh from his stunning performance in Jesus Christ Superstar in Perth, Rob took time out of his busy schedule to attend our Year 12 Production – The 39 Steps, much to the delight of our students.

Rob’s visit was a source of inspiration, showing our budding performers that with hard work and dedication, their dreams can become a reality. His journey from The Geelong College to professional theatre is a testament to the talent nurtured within our school community. A huge thank you to Rob for taking the time to inspire our students and for reminding them that the spotlight is always within reach!

- Deb Hynes, Senior School Performing Arts Teacher

MUSIC

Music Camp sets the tone

In late January, 80 music students from Years 8 to 12 embarked on Music Camp at Rutherford Park in Blampied, where they spent three days immersed in rehearsals and ensemble practice. With no classroom bells to interrupt, students focused on refining new repertoire and building momentum ahead of the performance season.

Their efforts culminated in Live on the Lawn, the College’s beloved openair concert held on the Talbot Street lawns on Saturday 1 March. The evening spotlighted the musicianship and energy of our ensembles, setting a vibrant tone for the year ahead.

- Scott Templeton, Director of Music