The Queen’s College Music and Drama Society (QCMADS) presented The Matchmaker by Thornton Wilder to an enthusiastic audience in the Union Theatre from the 5 to 7 of September. 

Set in 1880s New York City, The Matchmaker provided an evening of entertainment, comedy, and love. 

Poppy Bell (2^nd Year Arts), QCMADS President, loved being involved in the production. 

“From selecting the production team and applying for performance licences, to doing final dress rehearsals as part of the cast, it was incredible watching Queeners breathe so much character into the script. The skills and individuality of the cast and crew really gave the play charm. I am so grateful for the experience of learning from my peers’ talents, and seeing their sheer joy when performing.” 

Co-directors Gabriel Donaldson (2^nd Year Creative Writing) and Avi Walsh-Davis (1^st Year Arts) were both new to directing theatre but would do it all again if they could. 

Gabriel said, “When I signed up to direct the play, I thought it would be easy. Famous last words. Yet despite all the chaos, stress, and sleep debt to last a lifetime, I would do it all over again. The Matchmaker is a hilarious script which was brought to life by the most talented cast in the world and a dedicated and hardworking production team.” 

Avi added, “Co-directing has been one of the most challenging experiences of my life. It has also, without question, been one of the most rewarding. I walked out of our first rehearsal terrified and excited, and to see the result seven weeks later was both a privilege and a pleasure. Directing The Matchmaker has given me new skills, new friends, and new confidence in myself and my abilities.” 

Established in 1914, QCMADS is the oldest student theatre group at the University of Melbourne. 110 years on, the society is still providing opportunities for Queen’s to celebrate all things musical and dramatic at the College. 

Poppy explained, “In 2024, we have had a wide range of ways Queeners have been able to be involved, including evening soirees, our annual music festival ‘Quadstock’, Jazz Night Black Tie Dinner, the MADS turn, and of course, this hilarious production of The Matchmaker.