GLASSHOUSE Port Macquarie has launched its 2026 Education Program.
Designed to ignite creativity in students from pre-school through to Year 12, “Education@Glasshouse” engages more than 7000 young people each year from across the Manning, Hastings and Macleay regions.
Students are offered an exceptional range of curriculum-aligned productions, exhibitions, workshops, masterclasses and tours, while educators benefit from dedicated professional development opportunities.
The launch of the program was well-attended with over 80 educators present.
Performing Arts Curator Bec Washington, told News Of The Area that the aim is to stimulate innovative thinking, which is linked to improved wellbeing and life skills.
“Curriculum aligned, school based arts participation enhances the development of individual creativity and self-expression,” she said.
“[This] generates new perspectives, thereby enhancing empathy and understanding.”
The 2026 Performing Arts Program features some well-known works like “Room on the Broom” and Tim Winton’s “The Bugulugs Bum Thief”, along with the return of the ever-popular Monkey Baa Theatre Company with “Where is the Green Sheep?”.
The Opera Australia Children’s Chorus returns to give 24 talented young performers (aged 9-14) a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to perform on stage alongside world class artists and musicians.
The Visual Arts Program will feature the popular ARTEXPRESS and “The neighbour at the Gate” – a National Art School touring exhibition.
Additionally, local Mid North Coast artists will be showcased via “Northern Exposure Nine” and “Regional Creative Showcase 2026.”
Bridget Purtill, Regional Gallery Curator, said: “The Gallery education program’s intention is to explore, expand and dive deeper into these exhibitions, supporting syllabus delivery and content, while creating a unique and interactive learning experience for our students, teachers and community.”
For many students, Education@Glasshouse is the only opportunity to experience cultural activities of this calibre.
The program is made possible through the support of Coastline Bank and its Community Foundation Funding.
By Bill HARROW
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