George Torbay AM to join Pulteney for the 2026 School Musical

Pulteney Grammar School is proud to announce that distinguished conductor, music educator, and director George Torbay AM will join our Performing Arts program in 2026, mentoring students and leading the production of How to Succeed in Business Without Really Trying.
Torbay brings with him an extraordinary career in music and theatre. A graduate of the New England Conservatory of Music in Boston, the University of Sydney, and the Queensland Conservatorium of Music, he has served as Artist in Residence at Lasalle College of the Arts in Singapore, Chief Conductor for the NSW Department of Education, and Artistic Director of the Sydney Opera House Concert Series. He has directed and conducted widely across opera and musical theatre, with credits including Les Misérables, Chess, Urinetown, Jesus Christ Superstar, Spring Awakening, and La bohème.
In 2000, Torbay arranged, conducted, and recorded the National Anthem for the Closing Ceremony of the Sydney Olympic Games with the Sydney Symphony Orchestra and served as vocal coach for the Opening Ceremony. He has published extensively with Hal Leonard, written the first national musical theatre syllabus for the Australian Music Examinations Board, and in 2023 was named in the King’s Birthday Honours with an Order of Australia for services to the Performing Arts.
Currently a Senior Lecturer at the Elder Conservatorium of Music, University of Adelaide, Torbay was Head of Music Theatre for seven years and is deeply passionate about teaching, collaboration, and the joy of creating theatre with young performers.
“Pulteney already has a reputation for staging outstanding musicals,” George said. “I’m excited to build on that tradition and to share my passion for the creative process with students. When young people come into the room ready to play and collaborate, the possibilities are endless.”
Pulteney’s Head of Performing Arts, Jonathon Rice, said Torbay’s appointment is very significant for the School.
“This highlights the extraordinary commitment and talent within our school community and demonstrates the calibre of interest our Performing Arts program attracts. George’s experience, professionalism, and creativity will bring another level of depth to our musical theatre program, allowing students to learn directly from one of Australia’s leading figures in the arts.”
With next year’s production promising a fast-paced, ensemble-driven show full of wit and energy, Pulteney students are set to benefit greatly from George Torbay’s expertise, gaining performance skills and invaluable ‘tricks of the trade’ that will prepare them for life beyond school.