Extensive Performing Arts opportunities

Marsden leads the way in Performing Arts activities for our students. From music and drama to debating and performance our programmes are a great platform for building confidence, nurturing creativity and encouraging curiosity in our students, and are an important part of school and community life. Our Director of Performing Arts and exceptional teaching staff make sure all our students have the opportunity to experience the power of performance first-hand, through specialist teaching in music, singing, speech and drama.

Music

Playing and enjoying music at Marsden opens the door to a life-long appreciation of the performing arts. We have choirs, orchestras, rock bands, flute ensembles and handbell ringing, as well as the academic Music curriculum which includes our fun and innovative Year 7 Band Programme. 

Specialist teachers are available during the school day for students to have private tuition in the instrument of their choice.

Everyone can sing and there are many opportunities for our girls to create lovely vocal harmonies - for fun or in competition. From auditioned choirs to all-comers choirs and rock bands, there's something for all musical tastes. 

Marsden's award winning choir, Altissime, performing in 2020

Our Composer-in-Residence programme gives music students the very real opportunity to experience a composer at work. During their residency, the composer takes workshops with the girls and composes a unique piece of music for Marsden.

Throughout the year there are a number of events where our musicians showcase their talents. The Swainson Memorial Competition is a musical highlight where girls compete for the prestigious Nell Clere Music Scholarship and the time-honoured Betty Swainson Award.

Performance

We encourage our students to join the School Production. Performing as a team in front of an audience builds confidence and great camaraderie. Our productions involve scores of students in front of house or backstage - and they love it! For those not seeking the limelight, we sometimes offer lighting workshops alongside the school production.

2022 Variety Show

There are opportunities to perform in the Sheilah Winn Shakespeare Festival (including performance, music composition, poster design, and static image competitions), Kapa haka, debating, or take Speech and Drama lessons from our specialist tutors. 

The annual Performing Arts Awards Evening celebrates and recognises our top performers for their talent and dedication.

For more details contact our Director of Performing Arts, Sarah Wilson who will be happy to help you.

Performing Arts Handbook

At Samuel Marsden Collegiate School students are encouraged to strive for excellence in their academic, cultural and sporting pursuits; to value creative, innovative and independent thinking and to understand their responsibilities as local and global citizens. We provide an environment where students can choose to take part in a wide range of cultural and performing arts activities.

Performing Arts Activities 2025

Onsite Dance Academy

Jennifer Evans Dance Academy at Samuel Marsden Collegiate School

Marsden is excited to team up with the Jennifer Evans Dance Academy, a boutique Dance Academy with classes in Classical Ballet, Modern Jazz, Tap and Hip-Hop.  Ages range from 3.5 years to adults. All classes are conveniently held in the Marsden Studio, 7 days a week. Holiday classes and seminars are also available. For further details contact Jennifer 4762821 or 0276350191 or j.evansdance@gmail.com.