Since 1949, the Stepinac High School Drama Club has provided a vibrant pathway for students to develop their talents and passion for theatre. Performing on the historic Major Bowes Auditorium stage, the club presents captivating fall dramas and spring musicals that showcase student growth and creativity.

Each year, over 100 students from Stepinac and neighboring high schools participate in the Drama Club, supported by a dedicated Stage Crew of about 30 members who bring productions to life behind the scenes.

Stepinac has proudly premiered major musicals such as Disney’s Mary Poppins, The Hunchback of Notre Dame, Newsies, and the national high school premiere of Billy Elliot. The program has also staged regional premieres including A Bronx Tale, Jersey Boys, Curtains, The Drowsy Chaperone, Sister Act, and Peter and the Starcatcher.

The Drama Club’s commitment to excellence has earned nearly 200 award nominations since 2002, including Metropolitan Theatre Awards for Outstanding Musical Production for Phantom of the Opera (2012) and The Hunchback of Notre Dame (2017). The club’s international reach includes a celebrated performance at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival. [Read the review here.]

Many alumni have followed this pathway to professional success, including Academy Award winner Jon Voight and Emmy Award winner Alan Alda, with current graduates performing on Broadway and Off-Broadway stages nationwide.

Stepinac’s theatre program offers a dynamic and inclusive environment where students grow as performers, creators, and collaborators. Rooted in process-based learning, the program provides a clear pathway for students to develop their skills, take creative risks, and explore their unique artistic voice.