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Performing Arts

Extra-curricular Activities
Performing Arts

Manchester is a city that celebrates creativity, and so do we. With world-class galleries, theatres and performance venues on our doorstep, our pupils are surrounded by inspiration from the moment they join us.

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Performing Arts

At Manchester High, we offer every opportunity for girls to explore the performing, visual and creative arts, both in school and across the wider community. Whether it’s their first time stepping into the spotlight or their first experience backstage, pupils are encouraged to express themselves, find their voice and grow in confidence through creativity.

Girls love the dance opportunities available, ‘Dance is such a big thing here, I love the process of putting the shows together, it is such a supportive community of people.’  

– Good Schools Guide 2025

Happiness, Confidence, Tenacity and Ambition

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Music

Music is central to MHSG life.

Over 300 students take instrumental lessons and over 20 music clubs run weekly across school. Students perform in events including seasonal concerts and school productions. We offer competitive Music Scholarships.

Leadership opportunities are vital. Senior students conduct rehearsals and mentor younger pupils. Community engagement and charitable support are also important, with performances at events including Manchester Foundation Trust’s ‘Carols in the City’, alongside concerts in hospitals and churches.

Music excursions include visits to Germany and Austria.

Our connection to women’s history is reflected through the Music programme, including our 150th year celebrations and performances at the Bridgewater Hall and RNCM.

We recently partnered with Manchester University to celebrate its opening of the Marion Millar building, named after the University’s first female Music graduate and former MHSG peripatetic teacher.

Recent commissions include work by Errolyn Wallen, Master of the King’s Music.

Music at Manchester High School for Girls

Manchester High School for Girls
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Drama at MHSG

Drama is about more than performance; it’s about building imagination, communication and empathy. It’s where many pupils discover their confidence, make connections and explore who they are becoming.

Throughout the year, pupils take part in a wide range of performance opportunities. Highlights include:

  • Lower School Drama Showcase
  • Year 8 Interform Drama Competition
  • Sixth Form Play-in-a-Week
  • Junior and Senior Performing Arts Evenings
  • Cabaret Night
  • Whole School Productions

Past productions have included High School Musical, Chicago, Sweeney Todd, Billy Elliot, Sister Act and The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time.

Whether they’re acting, designing, directing or supporting behind the scenes, pupils work together to create something memorable. Performances at MHSG often mark a personal milestone – a first time speaking in front of a crowd, a first big laugh from the audience, a first realisation that their creativity matters.

Drama is well resourced with a lovely studio, and plenty of extra-curricular opportunities.

Good Schools Guide 2025

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LAMDA and Speech & Drama

From Year 2 through to Year 13, pupils can take part in LAMDA Speech and Drama lessons, which are designed to help develop self-expression, confidence and communication skills that last a lifetime.

Our teachers offer tuition for individuals, pairs and small groups in areas such as:

  • Public Speaking
  • Verse and Prose
  • Acting
  • Devising Drama
  • Miming
  • Musical Theatre

LAMDA qualifications are recognised across the country and give pupils the opportunity to build their performance skills in a structured and rewarding way. Many of our students also take part in external festivals, such as the Alderley Edge Festival, gaining experience on stage and valuable feedback from professional adjudicators.

To enrol your child for Speech & Drama lessons, please complete the relevant form below and email it to hcarter@mhsg.manchester.sch.uk.

Alternatively, you can complete this electronic form.

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Where Confidence Begins

At MHSG, the performing arts are often where confidence begins. A first rehearsal. A first standing ovation. The first time speaking up and a pupil realising they have something to say. These experiences matter – and they help shape the kind of young women our pupils go on to become.
We are proud to be a school of firsts. And for many, their first step into the arts becomes a lifelong passion.

Manchester High School for Girls

Award finalist certificate for a school - from Manchester High School for Girls

Magazine section highlighting school ranking - from Manchester High School for Girls

Blue badge for academic excellence. - from Manchester High for Girls