The Les Misérables Principal’s Drinks in August was a special occasion, bringing together members of the Wesley College Foundation community - donors, partners and bequestors - whose support continues to strengthen a Wesley education.
Special guest at the event was Josh Piterman (OW2003), a shining example of how philanthropy enriches the Wesley experience - his career in the performing arts reflecting the transformative influence of community support. Like many students, Josh benefited from the encouragement, expertise and generosity of those who champion both the arts and education at Wesley.
The Wesley College Foundation’s stewardship program is dedicated to formally recognising this generosity. From celebrating gifts of every size to honouring Nicholas Circle members who have contributed $1 million or more during their lifetime or through their Will, acknowledging supporters is a joyful part of the Foundation’s work.
Josh Piterman (OW2003) with Principal Nick Evans (OW1985)
Toni Joel OAM and Berry Liberman (OW1996)
Susie Rodgers-Wilson (OWCA HLM) and Peter Rodgers-Wilson (OW1965)
Nicki Lefkovits (OW1990), Janine Lambourne and Phil Lambourne (OW1980)
Laini Liberman, Elaine Mastos and Peter Mastos (OW1990)
Geoff Allen AM (OW1960) and Christine Hubay
The Les Misérables Principal’s Drinks was an expression of this stewardship in action - a moment to thank and celebrate those who make such opportunities possible. Fittingly, the evening shone a light on the performing arts, the success of our students and Josh’s remarkable achievements. His talk and the stunning student performance of Les Misérables in Adamson Hall that followed made it a very special evening for all.
He shared how his journey to the West End and his own triumphant turn as Jean Valjean began at Wesley with the Adamson Theatre Company, reminding us of the power of the arts and the importance of the support that makes it all possible. Getting his start at the ATC, Josh went on to sing with the Ten Tenors, play lead roles in West Side Story, Cats and Hairspray and become the only Australian to play Phantom of the Opera and Jean Valjean in London.
He spoke fondly about his ATC mentors and his formative Wesley experiences. ‘They really imparted a sense of belief in me that I could truly pursue this,’ he said. ‘I wouldn’t have had the life I’ve had, the magic experiences, the wonder of playing these roles on the West End stage, if it wasn’t for what this school gifted me.’
