“The Year 11 Play is less about the end result, and more about the camaraderie and trust that is built along the way.”
Fifty years on, the Year 11 Play remains one of the most anticipated and enduring traditions in the life of Brigidine College. What began in 1981 as a modest school production has grown into a rite of passage for generations of students – a shared experience that transcends performance and becomes something far more lasting: connection, confidence and belonging. Students step into unfamiliar roles, discover unexpected talents, and build friendships that often outlast their time at school.
As we mark this 50th anniversary, we invited alumni to reflect on their experiences. Below is a selection of just some of these reflections from alumni across the past five decades.
Alumni reflections
- “It was a bonding experience and an amazing growth opportunity for all of us.” – Yolanda D’Aquino (Class of 1993)
- “It really was indicative of the caring environment at Brigidine — I felt completely welcomed.” – Karena McLellan (nee McDonald) (Class of 1996)
- “The rehearsals were a place to make something together with my friends… the most rewarding time learning how to perform.” – Jessica Hayman (Class of 2010)
- “The camaraderie of the Brigidine Drama department… was unparalleled and the pure joy of it has stayed with me.” – Hannah Mayjor (Class of 2012)
- “The play created a space for greater unity amongst my peers and formed a core memory in my Brigidine journey.” – Lara Czysnok (Class of 2016)
- “It brought our cohort together… we now had a shared interest and goal.” – Alex Stacey (Class of 2022)
- “We learnt about commitment, collaboration and trust built along the way.” – Ruby Hills (Class of 2025)
- “It created a really supportive community and enhanced the schooling experience.” – Ali Knight (Class of 2026)
