National Sheilah Winn Competition Report

For the first time in fifteen years, Mr Leach took two aspiring young actors, Blake Wong and Galileo Finlayson-Ble (and their make-up artist, Mrs Varma) on a flight to Wellingto to compete in the University of Otago Sheilah Winn Shakespeare Festival.  It's one of the few National drama competitions available in New Zealand, with 47 different groups and about 500 competitors performing, we were prepared to enjoy an amazing weekend.

The cultural benefits of the trip have left a lasting impression on the boys who participated, as they were immersed in a world of Shakespeare, with like-minded people all around.  Having the festival in the cultural capital of New Zealand didn't hurt, either.

Blake and Galileo did an amazing performance of Macbeth Act 2, Scene 2 and left the audience pin-drop quiet.  Their performance was highly commended by the judges and viewers alike, but unfortunately they ran a few second over the performance time and weren't eligible for any awards.  Not that any amount of certificates could compete with the glorious sound of applause.

In the end, the group walked away with their heads held high and Mr Leach and Mrs Varma deserve an enormous thanks for their help.  Especially the work and effort othe Head of Drama, Mr Leach, put in to make the weekend one of the most exceptional experiences.

BRING ON NEXT YEAR!

Blake Wong, Yr 12