The Australian School of Performing Arts was established in 2009, founded on a desire to ensure that all children, teachers and communities have the opportunity to experience the enduring, significant and powerful benefits of engaging in the performing arts.
Humble beginnings
The Australian Girls Choir (AGC) was established in 1984 by Judith Curphey OAM, with 150 girls rehearsing in four classes in the Melbourne suburb of Burwood and Judith as the sole tutor. Today the AGC is proud to have 6500 girls learning to sing, dance and perform in Adelaide, Brisbane, Canberra, Melbourne, Perth and Sydney.
AGC sets the stage
The founding philosophy behind the AGC is that every child can learn to sing given encouragement and training, and the dynamic and inclusive curriculum is designed to cater to varying abilities and confidence levels. The senior performance groups have shared the stage with outstanding artists including Pharrell Williams, Olivia Newton-John and on tour with Hugh Jackman, released several CDs, and performed for audiences including Pope Benedict XVI, the King of Tonga, Barack Obama and Queen Elizabeth II.
ASPA is born..
After experiencing the profound and positive impacts of the performing arts through the AGC, Judith was compelled to extend these opportunities to students and teachers and communities who may not otherwise have access to them. Since it’s establishment in 2009, ASPA Education (formerly Australian Arts Alive) has engaged thousands of participants in many and varied programs – providing performing arts workshops and holiday programs, creating choreography for school concerts, directing school musicals and facilitating professional development sessions for teachers and early childhood educators.
We can’t wait to bring more Summer Showtime magic to life in 2026! This January, we’re diving into the colourful worlds of Finding Nemo KIDS and The Jungle Book KIDS. 🐠🌴
We’re also feeling incredibly grateful for the lovely feedback we received from a 2025 Summer Showtime parent. It’s moments like these that remind us why we do what we do. At ASPA Ed, we’re proud to create a space where participants can grow, thrive and find their voice both on and off the stage. 🌟
Register now for 2026 via link in bio!
Nov 20
Our friends at @rededofficial are bringing the festive cheer with their Christmas Dance Programs! 🎄
Whether you’re looking for a fun end of year incursion, a performance item for a school concert, or a festive dance disco, REDed are here to tie a Christmas ribbon on the end of a wonderful school year.
With flexible delivery options, high-quality digital content, and routines suitable for all skill levels, every student can join in and enjoy the fun!
Head to the link in our bio to learn more 💃
Nov 18
Are you a performing arts teacher feeling a little overwhelmed by the possibilities for your next school concert? Let our experienced, energetic ASPA Ed Instructors take care of as much or as little of the planning, content and delivery as you like, so that you can focus on helping your students succeed and watching the magic happen on stage. 🎤🌟
Head to our website via link in bio for more information and get in touch now for your 2026 school show! 🎭
Nov 17
Flashback to our most recent Summer Showtime Holiday Programs, where our participants had an absolute blast bringing Finding Nemo KIDS and Seussical KIDS to the stage! 🐠
Our inclusive programs add a burst of fun to the school break, with each group creating a full show in just four fun-packed days. The transformation is always inspiring as children grow in confidence and creativity within our nurturing environment.💙
Registrations for our 2026 programs are now open, so book via link in bio before places fill!
Nov 13
