IONA LIVE Interview with Eliza O'Brien & Elise Kukulka-

·26 min·2 clips

A student reveals how performing arts forces you to step outside your comfort zone, instantly growing self-confidence through vulnerability.

The episode begins with hosts Ashley, Audrey, and Nora welcoming guests Miss Kay, a drama teacher and producer, and Eliza, a student and cast member. Miss Kay opens by explaining why performing arts are vital, citing her 20 years of teaching experience and emphasizing creativity, wellbeing, and cultural expression. Eliza adds that performing arts offer a break from traditional classroom settings, allowing students to express themselves or become different characters. Miss Kay highlights the unifying power of performing arts, noting how activities like singing together create a sense of togetherness, especially in a digital age. Eliza shares her favorite aspects, describing the 'triple threat' of acting, singing, and dancing, and how it builds confidence by pushing students out of their comfort zones. Miss Kay discusses specific initiatives at Iona, such as the house music program introduced last year and the upcoming inaugural 2026 Iona College Play. She outlines the school's plan to alternate between plays and musicals annually, starting with a play this year. The conversation delves into the differences between producing plays and musicals, with plays focusing on a smaller ensemble of 15-20 students and musicals involving larger casts and more opportunities. Miss Kay explains that both formats include student-led roles in areas like stage management, lighting, and costume design. Eliza reflects on her experience in past musicals, describing the rewarding feeling of performing on stage with friends and the bittersweet end of productions. Miss Kay addresses the value of drama education beyond acting, sharing an example of an ex-student who now manages on-air talent at Channel 9, using skills learned in VCE drama. Eliza echoes this, noting that drama teaches human skills like confidence and teamwork that are invaluable in any career. The hosts ask about the audition process for the play, and Eliza details how it was organized through the school website, with audition forms and scripts provided. She describes callbacks as a workshop-style event that felt supportive and non-competitive, thanks to teachers like Miss Kay and Mr. Mawson who aimed to ease nerves. Miss Kay emphasizes their approach to auditions, focusing on helping students perform their best rather than creating a daunting environment. The episode touches on gender participation, with a call for more boys to get involved, and Miss Kay shares her background in boys' education to contextualize this. Eliza expresses hopes for the future, wanting to see more students embrace performing arts and recognize its broader life benefits. Miss Kay adds excitement about growing class sizes and potentially expanding VCE subjects like theatre studies or dance. The episode concludes with thanks to the guests and a sign-off from the hosts.

As heard by us

A school arts conversation that makes a clear case for drama as practical training.

The segment treats performing arts as a real part of school life, not a side activity. Miss Kay frames creative expression as something that can support wellbeing, culture, morale, and chances beyond the usual school routine, while Eliza brings the student view with a clear…

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Why you'd press play

Drama class, with a side of nerves, costumes, and real-world skills.

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