The 61st annual production of Victoriana! played to packed houses across four vibrant performances held on the weekends surrounding the Mid-Semester 2 Break. This cherished College tradition drew enthusiastic crowds of younger alumni, current residents and their parents, all eager to support a spirited cast and a finely tuned crew—most of whom hail from the College’s own residential community.

Remarkably, 19 of the 23 cast members were current students, a powerful reflection of the musical talent flourishing at St Paul’s today.

Guests were treated to a delightful three-course dinner, impeccably served by Les belles dames et les beaux messieurs of the Trippas White Group. The evening’s programme featured 14 familiar tunes, including crowd favourites Mandalay and Where Did You Get That Hat?, alongside newly unearthed gems from the Victorian archives such as What Can You Give a Nudist on His Birthday? and I Can’t Do My Bally Bottom Button Up.

Behind the scenes, a large crew of student volunteers ensured the evenings ran seamlessly. The Cellarers of St Paul’s kept libations flowing, while musical direction was masterfully handled by composer-in-residence and organist David Drury, supported by resident organ scholar Bailey Yeates.

Charismatic MC Simon Ward led the 2025 show with flair, delighting audiences with his signature Noel Coward number Don’t Put Your Daughter on the Stage, Mrs Worthington!.

The enduring enthusiasm for Victoriana! among current Paulines owes much to the leadership of director and producer Dr Jack Stephens, whose vision and dedication delivered a triumphant production. Though Director and MC Emeritus Lloyd Waddy was unable to attend, he was warmly acknowledged at each performance for his pivotal role in bringing Victoriana! to St Paul’s in 1964.

With such strong student involvement in 2025, the future of this unique and joyful fixture in Sydney’s entertainment calendar looks brighter than ever—here’s to another 61 years!