David Sidwell, the director of St. Peter's School's current production of Catch Me If You Can, is celebrating a remarkable milestone: 20 years of guiding students through some of the most innovative and memorable theatre productions.
As he steps into his 20th year at the helm of the school’s senior productions, Sidwell reflects on two decades of shaping young talent and pushing creative boundaries.
Sidwell’s extensive back ground in the arts has been a driving force behind his success. With over 45 years of involvement in the arts and theatre, Sidwell has built a career that spans both professional and educational realms. As the director of Hamilton Operatic Society shows, he has contributed to the vibrant local theatre scene for many years, earning widespread recognition for his work. His dedication to arts education is also reflected in his long tenure with the Wintec arts and theatre program, where he has taught for more than two decades. His commitment to fostering young talent and promoting the arts earned him the prestigious Wintec Institution Medal for his dedication to the field, as well as the Freedom Holder of the City award for his outstanding contribution to the arts.
St. Peter's School has become known for its extraordinary productions that reflect the unique culture and produce productions that could be put on the professional stage. The school places a strong emphasis on the importance of the performing arts, encouraging students to reach their full potential. The school's dedicated creative and performing arts staff, along with significant support from other departments and students, creates an environment where students thrive and produce performances that are nothing short of spectacular.
"Our productions stand out because of the incredible talent of our students and the environment in which they perform," Sidwell explains. "It’s a privilege to work alongside passionate young performers who bring their energy and creativity to the stage year after year."
Throughout his tenure, Sidwell has guided students in bringing an impressive array of productions to life, from building elaborate sets to mastering complex skills. He recalls the unforgettable feats that have defined St. Peter’s stage: a helicopter and car that once flew across the stage, a pirate ship that rocked on hydraulics, and a Victorian house that revolved both inside and out. The productions have also featured unique elements such as an entire cast roller-skating in Starlight Express, circus performing and acrobatics, and even tap dancing on a replica 1920s Rolls Royce. These innovative experiences have left a lasting impression on both the students and the audience.
Reflecting on his 20-yearjourney, Sidwell speaks fondly of the students who have come through the program, many of whom have gone on to successful careers in theatre and the arts. He proudly lists former students such as Daniel McCarroll, Ella Veitch, Ash Jugum, Zac Clarke, Emma Carpenter, Rose Sidwell, Solomon Crook, Ben Gibbons, and Felix Rowe, the latter of whom is currently in his third year of a theatre degree. “I like to think that every student who has participated in a St. Peter's production carries cherished memories of their time on stage,” says Sidwell.
For Sidwell, the most fulfilling aspect of his work is the ability to nurture the talent and creativity of his students, helping them to grow as both performers and individuals. It is this commitment to excellence that keeps him returning to the director’s chair year after year, continuing to inspire and shape the future generation of theatre.
As St. Peter's School continues to produce world-class performances, Sidwell's legacy of guiding young talent is sure to remain a cornerstone of the school's creative journey for years to come.
More students David has mentored:
Joanne Hobern
Tessa Gisby
Jake Gisby
Lisa Hawkins
Nathan Munn
Hamish Davies
Michael Lamusse
Tim Carpenter
Solomon Crooks
Ruby Clarke
Misty Henderson
Tumaia Curtis
Ben Stocker
Mackenzie Henderson-Wraight
Jesse Austin-Stewart
Joshi Reinhold