The Music & Drama programs at Araluen are involved in many, many projects, reflecting the extensive range of talent and skills of the clients.

Productions in recent years included The Aralion King and a spoof of the Rocky Horror Picture Show.

Drama participants develop a wide range of theatrical skills including voice projection, mastering complex songs, dialogue, dance moves, timing and changes in character roles and timely and speedy costume changes. Correct microphone technique and on-stage positions, entries and exits are also developed.

Most of all, the participants of the drama group come together as a team and derive great pride in seeing how their collective efforts culminate in a successful production that is enthusiastically received by a paying audience, often at sold out performances.

The very popular music classes cater for all levels of ability. Singing classes teach a choir/'group voice' format, while in sing-along classes, clients learn songs using various methods including symbols, signing, written words, memory.

The playing of musical instruments is taught in a way that is meaningful and geared to the musical tastes and physicality of the clients. Acoustic, electric and bass guitars, piano, keyboard and percussion are taught, as well as classes in unusual musical instruments such as the irish bouzouki, mandolin, viennese zither, banjo, etc which offer physical advantages in playing to clients.

Friday morning band class is one of the main events of the week and participants in the music technology classes experiment with sound effects, setting up PA systems and maintaining music equipment.

Music appreciation is enhanced with classes in music education and history and attendance at live music performances of bands and orchestras. Clients are given the opportunity to compose their own songs and music and have them recorded or even broadcast on Plenty Valley FM radio.