A dynamic new season invites young performers to step into bold creative opportunities
For young creatives and the families who’ve watched them shine, enrolling in Hunter Drama is an exciting beginning to every year and 2026 is promising to be full of opportunities for our region's budding performers.
After nearly two decades of nurturing performers from Newcastle to Singleton and everywhere in between, Hunter Drama remains one of the region’s most vibrant, energetic and welcoming creative hubs.
It’s a place where kids discover new passions, teens unlock their confidence, and emerging artists take their first real steps toward the careers they dream about. And next year’s program looks set to be one of the most dynamic seasons yet.
A new year of storytelling, creativity and confidence awaits young performers in 2026.
A Creative Playground for Every Kind of Performer
With pathways in Drama, Musical Theatre, Screen Acting and the Pre-Diploma of Musical Theatre, the 2026 lineup offers something for every young storyteller. Students aged 6–18+ can join weekly workshops designed to build confidence, spark creativity and help them find their place — whether that’s behind a microphone, on camera or stepping onto a stage for the first time.
For performers seeking a greater challenge, Hunter Drama’s auditioned ensembles open the door to advanced opportunities. The Actors Company and Performance Troupe return in 2026, along with the exciting new Musical Theatre Performance Troupe for budding triple-threat performers.
A Launchpad for Big Futures
Hunter Drama’s impact stretches well beyond its studios. Alumni have trained at Australia’s top performing arts institutions, appeared in professional productions and shone in acclaimed local shows, reflecting the empowering, supportive culture Artistic Director James Chapman and his team have built.
Every student performs twice a year, ensuring each young artist — regardless of experience — enjoys a moment in the spotlight. From backstage teamwork to opening night adrenaline, these experiences help shape confident performers and resilient young people.
A Season Bursting With Heart, Colour and Imagination
The 2026 season is a vibrant mix of rebellious fairytales, thoughtful dramas, family favourites and original works created right here in the Hunter.
Audiences can look forward to a vibrant season spanning reimagined fairytales, sharp satire, Shakespearean magic and beloved family favourites. The 2026 lineup features the Britney-powered Once Upon A One More Time, the chaotic comedy The Bugs, a fresh take on A Midsummer Night’s Dream, the much-loved Matilda JR., the cult-classic mystery Clue, and the gripping historical drama Radium Girls.
Plus, two Hunter Drama originals — Hollyweird and Apocalypse Survival Guide — showcase the imagination and ingenuity of every student enrolled in the program.
Hunter Drama 2026 Enrolments Are Open Now!
Enrol online via hunterdrama.com.au
With places always snapped up quickly — families are encouraged to lock in their spots early. For many young performers, Hunter Drama becomes more than a weekly class; it’s a creative home, a circle of friends, and a place to grow into themselves.
And for parents? It’s the joy of watching their young person’s confidence take flight, one rehearsal at a time.
