On Sunday, we had 26 dedicated Drama students take part in the West Auckland heat of New Zealand's annual Shakespeare festival. We were up against over 100 other students from Avondale, Western Springs, Kristen, ACG and North West School. This was our first time participating in the competition since 2019, and our ākonga represented our kura with immense talent and pride.

Our performers received invaluable feedback from the judging panel, which included acclaimed actress Miriama McDowell. We were also incredibly moved by our "support crew" of whānau who filled the audience to cheer us on.

A massive congratulations to Otis Jordan (Year 10), who was named Most Promising Actor. Standing out amongst a field of talented senior students is a remarkable feat. Otis performed in a scene from A Midsummer Night’s Dream, expertly directed by fellow Year 10 student Ashton Snook.