Hannah Lenehan, director of High School Musical: On Stage

SMuTS’ production of High School Musical: On Stage at Attenborough Centre for the Creative Arts on the Sussex campus

Sussex is more than just a place of academic learning - it is a place where students grow, connect, and thrive.

Whether it's through cultural exchange, creative expression, political activism, or simply finding people who share a love of chess or K-pop, the array of clubs and societies that exist at Sussex create a sense of belonging and purpose for students, something that’s just as transformative for them as their studies.

Among the many clubs and societies that elevate the university experience, the Sussex Musical Theatre Society (SMuTS) takes centre stage - quite literally. Fusing talent, teamwork, and a love of performance, the society offers students a stage to express themselves, build lifelong friendships, and escape the pressures of academic life through the power of song and storytelling.

Hannah Lenehan has been a member of the SMuTS community throughout her time at Sussex. Here she explains how it enhanced her student experience.

“I studied English and Drama joint honours, and I have just finished my third year. I am a very artistic person and love being creative.

“I have always had a passion for musical theatre, so SMuTS seemed like the perfect society for me to join. I experienced a really warm welcome from the members of SMuTS when I arrived at Sussex.

“SMuTS has massively enhanced my time at university. I was given the opportunity to be Social Secretary in my second year, and to direct High School Musical: On Stage in my third year. I also produced Waking up in Vegas, Material Girl, and Gala of Falmera.

“I think being a member of SMuTS is good for cultivating personal confidence and is a wonderful way to make friends. There are so many avenues to go down within the society, be it just going to socials or being part of the technical team, the props department, backstage crew, production team or being a main cast member. There is something for everyone, and it’s a great way for students to experience escapism and joy.”

Recently, SMuTS were the lucky beneficiaries of a generous gift in an alumnus’ Will. Dr Michael Turner studied Education at Sussex from 1987 to 1992. A former mayor of Lewes, Michael had a fondness for amateur dramatics, even writing several historical plays focusing on history, which were performed by Lewes Theatre Club.

Hannah explains that Michael’s gift was used to hire a bridge for use in the High School Musical: On Stage production. A bridge is an elevated platform or walkway that creates different levels on which to perform on the stage, adding an extra dimension to a performance.

“The money really benefited SMuTS. Being able to hire a bridge for the stage provided us with much more creative freedom. We were so lucky to receive the legacy gift, and we always appreciate any donations - they help us to put our best feet forward and drive our performances. We would like to thank Michael and his family very much for how lovely and supportive they have been.”

So, what comes next for Hannah? She says:

“After directing High School Musical: On Stage, I felt encouraged to start thinking about how to get into directing full time, but for now I’m staying at Sussex to study for a Primary Postgraduate in Certificate in Education (PGCE) as directing brought back my love for teaching. I will remain a member of SMuTS during my fourth year and will be reassuming the roles of Social Secretary and Producer.

“I had the most amazing time directing High School Musical: On Stage and I’ve loved being a member of SMuTS, so I’m really excited to see what next year brings!”

When Dr Michael Turner remembered Sussex in his will, he left more than a financial gift. The Turner Legacy at Sussex is an example of how a personal passion can blossom into a transformative gift for students.

If you would like to support a Sussex club or society or would like to leave a gift to Sussex in your Will, please contact giving@sussex.ac.uk.