Why the Arts Matter Now (More Than Ever)

In a city built on stories—of policy, progress, and people—the Arts are the beating heart of Canberra’s cultural identity. From the recent Enlighten Festival to the Canberra Theatre Centre, the Arts shape how we connect, challenge perspectives, and express our identity. In an unpredictable job market, skills like creativity, problem-solving, collaboration, and adaptability—honed through the Arts—are more valuable than ever.

But the Arts are not just about careers. As First Nations theatre-maker Wesley Enoch puts it, “the Arts are the conscience of a nation.” Whether through theatre, music, dance, or visual storytelling, the Arts give us ways to process, protest, and make sense of the world.

As educators, industry professionals, and community members, it is our responsibility to champion creative education—not just as an extracurricular pursuit, but as a critical foundation for the future. Whether it is students stepping into new identities onstage, composing original scores, or capturing the world through a camera lens, the Arts are more than subjects—they are pathways to confidence, innovation, and resilience.

At our school, the Arts are thriving. This year’s Charlie and the Chocolate Factory production will showcase talent across performance, design, and backstage roles. Our Music Program fosters musicianship and collaboration across year levels, while our Tech Crew is gaining hands-on industry experience in sound, lighting, and stage management. It is not too late to be involved in these offerings! 

These opportunities are not just about the performances themselves; they are about the teamwork, leadership, and problem-solving that the Arts instil—qualities that extend far beyond the classroom.

As we look ahead, the question is no longer if the Arts matter, but how we ensure they continue to grow. Because if Canberra has taught us anything, it is that a city without creativity is a city without soul.

Mrs Sarah Smith
The Arts Coordinator