Scotch Oakburn College has been buzzing with excitement and creativity thanks to two unforgettable Harry Potter workshops led by Ben Walter, who portrayed Albus Potter in the Melbourne production of Harry Potter and the Cursed Child for over three years.
Ben first visited the College earlier this term, spending the morning with lead cast members exploring the play’s darker themes and emotional depth. Students were encouraged to connect the story to their own lives, making the narrative more relevant and resonant for today’s youth. The afternoon session brought the full cast together to workshop scenes, offering students a rare glimpse into the craft of professional theatre.
Following the success of the initial workshop, Ben returned last Sunday for a second session, continuing to guide and inspire our student performers. This time, the focus shifted to refining performances and deepening character work. Ben’s insights and feedback helped students elevate their understanding of the play and their roles within it.
These workshops have been more than just rehearsals—they’ve been transformative experiences. Students gained firsthand knowledge of the discipline, passion, and creativity required in professional theatre, and left each session feeling more confident, connected, and inspired.
As we prepare for our upcoming production at the Princess Theatre, we are incredibly grateful for Ben’s generosity and mentorship. His involvement has brought a touch of magic to our performing arts program and will undoubtedly leave a lasting impact on our students.
Andy Prideaux
Head of Performing Arts
