Meet the Creators
Original School Musicals Created by Teachers, for Teachers
At Bilby Theatrical Productions, every musical has been created by educators who understand both the excitement and the realities of staging productions in schools.
A Lifetime in Education and the Performing Arts
Maria Cauchi Simpson holds a BA in Performing Arts from the University of Western Sydney and a Master of Education.
She has taught across primary and secondary education, specialising in Drama, Dance, Music and EAL/D.
Having worked as both a classroom teacher and specialist teacher from Kindergarten through to Year 12, Maria understands the challenges teachers face—balancing curriculum demands while creating meaningful, memorable learning experiences for every child.
John L. Cauchi Simpson holds a BA in Performing Arts from the University of Western Sydney and a Master of Film, Arts and Business from AFTRS.
Alongside producing and distributing Australian films, John has spent decades teaching drama, filmmaking, producing and performance to students of all ages.
His experience in the film and theatre industries brings unique insight, creativity and professionalism to every Bilby production.
From the Professional Stage to the Classroom
Before entering the classroom, Maria and John performed together in the original Australian cast of The Phantom of the Opera.
Between them they have appeared in more than 30 professional musical productions and worked with organisations including:
- Opera Australia
- Disney Live
- Cameron Mackintosh Ltd
- Victorian State Opera
- State Opera South Australia
- Sydney Theatre Company
- ABC
- Foxtel and Network 10
These professional experiences continue to influence every Bilby musical, combining theatrical excellence with practical classroom experience.
Creating Musicals that Include Every Child
In 1995, Maria and John founded Bilby Theatrical Productions, creating original Australian musicals that have entertained more than one million children in theatres, schools and on television.
Their productions have featured on Foxtel and Network 10, introducing generations of young Australians to the magic of music theatre.
Alongside their professional performance careers, Maria and John have spent decades creating shows and teaching drama, musical theatre, dance and filmmaking to students of all ages.
They have developed curriculum-based performing arts programs for schools, including several years designing and delivering specialist programs throughout the Catholic Education Diocese of Parramatta.
Every Bilby Musical is Written with Teachers in Mind
Our musicals are practical to rehearse, manageable to stage, curriculum-connected, and designed so that every child has the opportunity to participate, grow in confidence and experience the joy of performing.