When Oliver Evans realised his hometown of Mudgee couldn’t offer the performing arts opportunities he craved, he turned his gaze to Sydney.
The McDonald College offered something unique: a place to pursue both academic excellence and acting dreams—without compromise.
“I didn’t know I could do both at the same school,” Oliver says. “But after touring the campus, meeting the teachers and taking part in an acting workshop with my now-mentor and Head of Acting, Greg Friend, I was sold.”
The McDonald College’s boarding house became his new home. “It’s honestly like a second family,” Oliver shares. “Mrs Rogers, Head of Boarding, and the supervisors are so supportive and really take the time to know you—not just as a student, but as a person.”
Since joining, Oliver has performed in theatre productions, booked commercials and short films and even wrapped an indie feature set to release later this year. He is also currently playing a lead role in The McDonald College’s professional-level production of A Midsummer Night’s Dream. The show will tour Wagga Wagga in early July.
From screen acting classes and agent support to industry-ready productions, the opportunities are endless. “Being surrounded by people who share the same passion gives me something to look forward to every day,” Oliver says. “It’s made me more confident and inspired.”
Oliver’s story is one of many that prove geography doesn’t define destiny.
Thinking about a future in the arts or simply want a school that celebrates your talents? Visit The McDonald College’s next Open Day and discover what’s possible. You might even catch a rehearsal or chat with boarders who, like Oliver, made the leap—and never looked back.
More info at mcdonald.nsw.edu.au.
More reading: Mark your calendars! Five stellar productions coming to The McDonald College in Term 2
