Music, drama and performance have been at the heart of life in St. Mary's Secondary School for over fifty years. Our annual school musical is one of the highlights of the school calendar and a much-loved tradition that showcases the extraordinary talent, creativity and dedication of our students.
The tradition began in 1974, when the late Mother Benedict introduced the people of Ballina to the musical talents of St. Mary's students with the production of Zurika. Since then, generations of students have taken to the stage, continuing a proud legacy of excellence in music, drama, dance and performance.
Today, our Transition Year students lead the annual production, supported by our Second Year chorus, Fifth Year choir, dedicated staff and the wider school community. The musical is a true whole-school event, bringing together students from across year groups to work collaboratively both on and behind the stage.
In recent years, St. Mary's has proudly developed a unique tradition of writing and producing our own original musicals. This allows us to create productions that are tailored to our students, ensuring that every young person who wishes to participate has a meaningful role, whether performing, singing, dancing, acting, designing, choreographing or working behind the scenes.
This inclusive approach reflects our commitment to student wellbeing, belonging and student voice. Through the musical, students build confidence, develop friendships, discover new talents and experience the rewards of teamwork, creativity and shared achievement.
Our recent original productions, including Sing, Sing, Sing, Time After Time, All Dolled Up and 4Ever in Blue Jeans, have all played to sell-out audiences and received outstanding support from the local community.
We are especially proud to stage these productions in our own state-of-the-art school, welcoming parents, families, past pupils and the wider Ballina community to celebrate the remarkable talent and creativity of our students.
For many students, the school musical becomes one of the most memorable experiences of their time at St. Mary's—an opportunity to shine, grow in confidence and create lifelong memories while being part of something truly special.