Students of the newly commenced Performing Arts subject, ‘Fundamentals of Acting and Theatre’ have launched one of Western Sydney University’s (‘WSU’) newest clubs. The Hybridised Ensemble for Film & Theatre, or otherwise called ‘THEFT’, gives students across WSU a place to act, film and create, regardless of their degree or experience.
When W’SUP talked to T S Tabassum Ahad, an executive member of THEFT, they explained that students “were searching for a space where others like us could come together to share our love for the scene, while also offering professional experiences such as workshops and formal filming sessions.”
Performers are at the heart of the club, but the door is open to anyone. “We’re mainly a club for actors who hope to hone their skills through both theatre and film acting, but we’re open to everyone, as our events cater to a wide audience,” Ahad said.
That hybrid model extends behind the scenes too. Lighting and film crews working on THEFT’s film projects can carry those skills into theatre tech, building experience that Ahad says, “may enhance their employability.”
From improv classes to skit sessions
All of THEFT’s events so far have been held in person across WSU campuses. The club launched with an improvisation workshop led by Home and Away actress Courtney Ally Miller at Parramatta South campus.
Since then, members have taken part in skit filming sessions at Parramatta South and Kingswood, with another scheduled for Parramatta City. The club has also been running regular drama workshops at Kingswood.
Like most clubs at WSU, joining THEFT is easy. Students can join, register for an upcoming event, and then importantly, get involved.
Upcoming events:
Even with the year winding down, THEFT still has plenty on. Members are headed out on the club’s first excursion, to see The Coconut Children at Belvoir St Theatre on the 10th of December 2026.
The club is also running a raffle, with members in the running for one of five seats at an early screening of Avengers: Doomsday. The winners will be drawn on 30 October at THEFT’s annual general meeting (AGM).
Big plans for 2027
“THEFT is an ambitious club,” Ahad said, and its plans for next year reflect that.
In 2027, THEFT doesn’t plan on slowing down and will continue its skit filming sessions and drama workshops. The club is also preparing two special events to run during the semester breaks. With details of these events yet to be announced, Ahad has hinted to W’SUP that one of them is set to be a professional networking event.
Longer term, THEFT hopes to take on bigger stage productions, short films and original works created by WSU students, from writing and directing through to filming and editing.
Why join?
For Ahad, the answer comes down to community and opportunity.
“THEFT is a club with lots of potential, and we have a very supportive team of executives. Members have the chance to hone their skills and foster professional growth, while also having the ‘fun university life’ experience.”
Whether you to love to perform and create, or even just love film and theatre, THEFT could be the club for you.
You can join THEFT through WesternLife and find the club’s socials via its Linktree.
