Congratulations to the phenomenal cast, crew, band, and staff behind the Padua College 2026 production of Guys and Dolls. We enjoyed a spectacular opening week filled with glowing reviews and heartfelt praise from our enthusiastic audiences, and it’s no surprise why. This high-calibre musical showcases extraordinary triple-threat talent from students across Years 7–12 brought to life by our exceptional live orchestra under the direction of Mrs Jodie Williams. The audience has been wowed by the stunning costume and set design crafted by Mrs Gabe Noonan, and the brilliant lighting design that highlights the energy and artistry of 125 performers on stage. Behind the scenes, a dedicated team of student technicians, stage crew, ushers, and make-up artists — totalling 160 students — have collaborated tirelessly over five months to create a truly professional and unforgettable theatrical experience. Beyond the applause and accolades, the greatest achievement has been the lasting friendships and sense of community forged through this remarkable journey. Guys and Dolls is not just a show — it’s a celebration of creativity, commitment, and the magic of Padua College coming together. Limited tickets available for Saturday 9 August matinee performance - book here.
“Against a colourful backdrop of the St Clare Performing Arts Centre at Padua College, Mornington, I witnessed one of the best local school productions of Damon Runyon’s ‘Guys and Dolls’ last night. Their host of colourful characters and exotic locations (exotic, at least to the many parents and local Mornington Peninsula theatre goers who flocked to the opening night), and the denizens of ‘Guys and Dolls’ couldn’t be confused with people from anywhere else in the world. This show for me created a complete realistic world, with the Biltmore Garage, Save-a-Soul Mission and Times Square. You could of knocked me over with a feather when I saw the Padua College Band make an entrance after the show, and I apologise for taking away the confidence of the Padua College band when at one stage the thought crossed my mind, ‘is this music pre-recorded’ and it’s shame on me for thinking so. This orchestra, and they deserve to be called that, were faultless and professional. I have seen the show twice, Melbourne Arts Centre and The Regency Theatre and these musical students conducted by Jodie Williams packed a full sound and faultless performance. I have been a Radio Journalist for more than 43 years and have never witnessed a more professional school production ever. Not because my granddaughter, Eliza, played a wonderful ‘copper’ in the show wielding a baton but more that I felt there were stars to be born. Angela, Harley, Thomas, Chloe, Liam (thought I had a raspy voice), Sophie, Imogen, Claire, Connor, Tua, Ben, Kai and more will be our next theatre stars of the future. Well done Director, Kylie Donnelly and Principal, Kelly McGurn. Be proud of what you have achieved with this immersive production and all the people from Padua behind the scenes to create a bold production of superb singing, colourful sets, and what I noticed as a fine point, the chemistry between the performers. There is plenty to love about this school production of ‘Guys And Dolls.’” – Gary Turner, RPP FM
“On Friday Night I was so impressed by the Westside Cast, the vocal harmonies, and elusive elements director’s struggle to find chemistry between the characters and stage presence. Chloe Sayers as Sarah Brown, and Jake Symes as Sky Masterson were the perfect couple. Likewise Amelia Wilkinson as Miss Adelaide and William Badaracchi as Nathan Detroit provided excellent comedic counterpoint. The depth of talent in the ensemble and their character provided great comedy and pathos. Kai McCoy as Nicey Nicey Johnston, Ben Theoclitou as Benny South Street, Connor Gibney as Harry the Horse, Xavier Anderson as Rusty Charlie, Liam McAloon as Big Julie. Imogen IIes as Arvide Abernathy, Claire Torre as General Carthwright and the ever suffering Lieutenant Brannigan.” – Dr John Butler
“It was absolutely mesmerising! I had a smile on my face the whole way through. It’s honestly hard to believe they’re high school kids—what an amazing job by everyone involved. Massive congrats to you both and the whole team!” – Ms McIvor
“My husband and I went to see Guys and Dolls on Saturday night and I want to congratulate everyone on an amazing, amazing, amazing show. We both thoroughly enjoyed it and it was so inspiring to see the pride on the students faces as they took on their individual roles. From getting out of the car to the end of the night, it was evident to see the work, logistics and commitment made by everyone from canteen to programs, to props, to music to action. It was a warm and welcoming environment and a real pleasure and privilege to witness.” – Ms Slater
“It was amazing!! The costumes, choreography, singing, dancing, music......amazing! I'm in awe of all the students involved and of course those behind the scenes!” – Mrs Goldsmid
“At this point I had to check my program as Gabe Noonan as Artistic Director looked after three major areas of the production: Costumes, Set and Prop Design. I take my hat off to Gabe for this monumental effort.” – Dr John Butler
“Our staff could not speak highly enough of your students and staff and the brilliant production of Guys & Dolls you staged today. You and your students deserve to be very proud!” – Sue, St Brendan’s Primary
“It was great to arrive and see food trucks, the 1950s period style from ice cream stalls, a food kiosk, to a newspaper stand to set the mood for Guys and Dolls in the foyer of the St Clare Centre, on the Padua’s Mornington campus.” - Dr John Butler
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