QPAC

A new partnership with Queensland Conservatorium Griffith University (QCGU) furthers our joint commitment to nurturing the next generations of performing arts talent.

Formed in September 2022, the partnership is a first for both organisations, and allows students from the Conservatorium to train and study in-residence at QPAC year-round, with access to three purpose-built rehearsal spaces.

It will also allow the University to consolidate its performing arts courses at its South Bank campus.

QPAC Chief Executive John Kotzas said the organisations had long enjoyed a fruitful partnership including performance collaborations such as Grease The Musical in 2021 and professional development opportunities for students including workshops and masterclasses with visiting international and national artists and creatives.

"This partnership is a natural next step for us providing an opportunity to invest in the education of artists coming through QCGU courses.” 

“It makes our building more accessible to the students and they will benefit greatly from further exposure to QPAC’s technical and production expertise,” said Mr Kotzas.

Charlotte Page, John Kotzas, Carolyn Evans, Jacqui Dwyer and Jack Ingram at the new QPAC Griffith Partnership launch. Photo by Sharyn Swanepoel.

The Griffith Musical Theatre program is now one of the most sought-after programs of its kind in Australia with more than 450 applicants auditioning for just 20 places each year.

Vice Chancellor and President of Griffith University, Professor Carolyn Evans said the program had produced a raft of acclaimed artists, several of whom were currently starring as leads in some of the country’s most high profile and popular stage musicals.

“Since the Bachelor of Musical Theatre was introduced in 2011, we’ve had students starring in Frozen - the Musical, SIX! The Musical, Come From Away, Hairspray, Jagged Little Pill, and The Phantom of the Opera with Griffith alumna Shubshri Kandiah securing leads roles in Aladdin and Cinderella,” Professor Evans said.

The mutually beneficial partnership extends beyond just the physical space provided by QPAC with plans to explore further opportunities for learning and collaboration for Griffith students and QPAC staff tapping into the expertise and services of both institutions.

John Kotzas adds:

“We are approaching this as we always do with Griffith, in a very collaborative manner to ensure the best outcomes for all involved. Just as we aim to deliver remarkable live performance experiences for our audiences, Griffith aims to nurture remarkable graduates,” said Mr Kotzas.

“We look forward to seeing the fruits of this partnership end up on stages around Australia and the world for years to come.”