Since its first production Sally in 1963, the Cowra Musical and Dramatic Society has brought laughter, music and storytelling to Cowra’s stages. From grand musicals like Oklahoma! and Calamity Jane to beloved plays and innovative radio theatre, the M&D has produced more than 150 shows all powered by volunteers, passion and community spirit.

Working closely with the Cowra Vocal Ensemble and the youth program YAMA, the Society continues to nurture local talent of all ages. Supported by dedicated patrons and life members, the M&D remains a cornerstone of Cowra’s cultural life sharing the joy of live performance with audiences for over six decades

A BRIEF HISTORY OF THE COWRA MUSIC AND DRAMATICS SOCIETY

  • Throughout the 70s and 80s, the Cowra Civic Centre became the Society’s main home, with performances also touring to nearby towns. The M&D staged everything from big musicals like Oklahoma! and Calamity Jane to classic plays such as The Importance of Being Earnest. One-act shows, touring productions and community concerts all helped cement the M&D as a cornerstone of Cowra’s cultural life.

  • Alongside its musicals, the M&D has staged more than fifty plays — from classic comedies and mysteries to modern Australian works. Audiences have enjoyed favourites like Dimboola, Summer of the Seventeenth Doll and Blood Yellow, plus creative radio-play productions with live sound effects.
    In 2019, the Society proudly represented Cowra at the Norfolk Island Theatre Festival, showcasing both stage and radio performances.

  • Over the years, the M&D has been supported by patrons from Cowra’s civic and artistic community, including Dr Warren Whiley, Marjorie Winkley, and the late Mayor Cyril Treasure OAM. Today’s patron, Patsy McGlynn, who first performed with the Society in 1966, continues to champion local performing arts.
    Life Membership has been awarded to sixteen distinguished members, starting with accompanist Phyllis Goodacre, many of whom remain active in productions and mentoring new performers.

  • Over six decades, the M&D has staged more than forty musicals — from Oklahoma! and Calamity Jane to The Wizard of Oz. The creation of the Cowra Vocal Ensemble in the 1990s added even more musical magic, delighting audiences at Eisteddfods, civic events, and festivals. Behind every show is a dedicated team of directors, musicians, designers, technicians, and volunteers who bring theatre to life.

  • Encouraging new talent is central to the M&D’s purpose. It’s youth program, YAMA (Youth Amateur Musical Actors), introduced young people to every aspect of theatre — acting, lighting, sound, and stagecraft.

    More than 2,000 people have taken part in M&D productions, many from the same families across generations. The Society has also been recognised with Canberra Area Theatre (CAT) Awards for ensemble and individual performances.

  • Since 1963, the Cowra Musical and Dramatic Society has staged around 150 productions, alongside concerts, fundraisers, and community events — including shows celebrating the end of World War II and Cowra’s 150th anniversary in 1999. In late December 2025, the Society proudly rebranded as the Cowra Theatre Company, bringing a fresh new look while honouring its rich history. Today, the Company continues to be a creative cornerstone of Cowra, fostering inclusion, confidence, and artistic excellence. Whether on stage or in the audience, you’re part of a proud tradition thriving for over sixty years.

Black and white photo of four performers in traditional European folk costumes. Two women are kneeling in front, wearing long skirts, blouses, and headscarves. Two men are standing behind them, in shirts with rolled-up sleeves, wide belts, and dark p
A woman wearing a wide-brimmed hat and brown clothing, holding a black and white puppy, with a white lattice fence background.
Three women dressed in vintage burlesque costumes with black and red ruffled skirts, fishnet stockings with black bows, and black shoes, standing together and smiling.
Group of nine people dressed in vintage, historical costumes, posing for a photo on stage.
A woman dressed in vintage clothing, sitting cross-legged on the floor, wearing a floral yellow dress, a green shawl, and a white bonnet, with a colorful bunting background behind her.
Photograph of eight young girls in vintage sailor-style dresses standing on a staircase indoors, smiling at the camera.
A group of young girls dressed in matching red, white, and blue outfits performing with musical instruments, including trumpets, xylophones, and clarinets, during a holiday or Christmas-themed event. They are walking in a line on a wooden floor in fr
Stage performance featuring individuals dressed in nautical and military costumes, including a man in a military uniform with medals, surrounded by others in sailor outfits, on a decorated stage.