On Saturday 5th April, 12 excellent actors participated in the Victoria University of Wellington Sheilah Winn Shakespeare in Schools Festival.
We had two student-directed groups who had rehearsed all term for their 15-minute performances.
Azaria Westeneng (year 13) directed a scene from The Taming of the Shrew. The actors for this scene were Zander Moffat, Xen Wood, Mea Stevens, Azaria Westeneng, Joshua Metzger, Maya Pradhan, and Braedyn McHugh.
Evangeline Arthur (year 12) directed a hilarious scene from A Midsummer Night’s Dream. All 12 actors were involved in this scene: Evangeline Arthur, Braedyn Mchugh, Isaac Jefferies, Josh Metzger, Kailash Babu, Xen Wood, Beren Williams, Azaria Westeneng, Maya Pradhan, Kai Jarden, Zander Moffat, and Mea Stevens.
The competition was fierce, with 21 scenes presented from 10 schools around Christchurch. After a long day of rehearsing, performing, and watching Shakespeare, it was finally time for the judges’ comments and awards.
The Midsummer Night’s scene won the ‘Best Physical Gag’ award for the comedy prowess of Josh Metzger, Braedyn McHugh and Isaac Jefferies.
The Taming of the Shew scene won the ‘Best Expression of Tone’, undoubtedly due to the skills of Azaria Westeneng and Zander Moffat.
The talented Azaria Westeneng was awarded one of the two premier solo awards: Best Lead Performer.
I am so proud of all of these incredible actors as their performances were a personal best, their behaviour was exemplary and they did Kaiapoi proud.
We are all so excited to participate in the festival again next year. If you would like to join us, you are welcome to contact Mrs Breen.
