Talented producer, performer, and playwright, Alumna Sonia Dodd (she/her) is making waves with her captivating play, Good Mourning, programmed for the Civic Theatre Newcastle on September 22-23, 2023.

Sonia's love for the performing arts grew during her time at SPCC and she never looked back. She pursued her passion by obtaining a degree in Communication with a focus on Theatre and Media. Sonia's hard work and dedication paid off when she landed a role as a Project Assistant for Opera Australia's Handa Opera on Sydney Harbour, and then joined the production team at Darlinghurst Theatre Company. Sonia has also produced independent theatre, worked as a playwright, performed on screen, studied Psychological Science and is currently a finalist in the Canberra Youth Theatre's Emerging Playwright Commission.

Sonia took a moment during her busy week to reflect on her experiences on stage and off during her time at SPCC.

Name: Sonia Dodd (she/her)

I’m currently… Pursuing too many hobbies! While an Associate Producer at Darlinghurst Theatre Company in Sydney, I also produce, perform and write outside of work with a passion for pushing boundaries and celebrating marginalised voices. Outside of the arts world, I enjoy playing social soccer, cooking delicious food, hanging out with my cute dog Rudy and exploring the outdoors with my partner.

I was at SPCC Newcastle from … 2008 to 2015 (Year 5 to 12).

At school I... LOVED being there! I was devastated to end my time at school, but quickly learnt that there was a whole world out there to enjoy and learn more about myself.

My best memory of SPCC... Without a doubt, the Senior School musicals at the Civic Theatre. What an opportunity! My best memories are either on the stage or mucking around backstage in the dressing rooms with my pals. I also fondly remember getting ready for Year 12 drama on Wednesday afternoons, which also served as an opportunity to choreograph and perform our own renditions of Broadway bangers to the bathroom mirror. Outside of theatrics, there are several moments that hold unforgettable special memories; the Year 6 Coachwood camp, Year 8 sailing trip, the Year 11 camp fashion parade (hilariously the fashion parade discontinued after our my year group's antics), taking ownership of the Year 12 common room and having half the year group work at Baker's Delight and provide treats to class most days (I won't mention the infamous bread fight we had one lunch time where a sourdough roll was catapulted through a glass window).

A staff member that particularly impacted me was… Frolicking around India with Mrs. Lyn Mulholland and the India trip team was a very memorable experience. I will never forget Mrs. Muholland (or "Mulhol") leading karaoke on the bus or rushing to the bathroom when we landed a domestic flight in Delhi to pop on her bright pink lipstick, as we were "going to the big city" (her words!).

When I left school, I wanted to… Be in the Arts, which is thankfully where I currently am and thriving!

Today I’m motivated/inspired by… Those who speak up, fight for and celebrate their values and what they believe in.

I never dreamed I would… Miss Newcastle as much as I do now. I was so ready to leave Newy, but I quickly realised (especially when I was in Bathurst) that it has the best beaches and ocean views in the world.

My greatest achievement is... Having my very own play programmed at the Civic Theatre Newcastle, which holds so many of my most formative memories as a youth. It is an incredibly sentimental occasion and full circle moment!