Our artists in clear focus

Katikati Advertiser has something of a thespian theme going this week. It’s another feather in our cap when an accomplished actor or entertainer pops up here, or when an upcoming talent is ready to burst onto the scene.

On our front page this week, we share Athenree actor Mitchell Preston’s excitment in being cast in Tauranga Musical Theatre’s Matilda — The Musical starting at Baycourt tonight. It’s an amazing accomplishment for any young actor. He’s added the art of dance to his growing musical theatre portfolio.

We tell Christine Mackenzie’s story, who has worked in the US entertainment industry for years.

I met the actress last year during Katikati Theatre’s playful production A Reindeer Revolt at Santa’s Workshop.

Christine really committed to her role as Cupid the affectionate reindeer so I didn’t blink an eye when she told me she had been in movies.

The humble artiste did not expect such a big story — she just wanted to share two documentaries she wrote and directed which is happening tomorrow.

Don’t forget about Complaint Department and Lemonade which debuts at The Arts Junction from Saturday night (September 23-30). It’s Katikati Youth Theatre’s first production.

This week we run a heart-warming update about Roy Nugter who is battling cancer.

Bay of Plenty Times reporter Kiri Gillespie has been keeping tabs on our local guy who did everything he could to fundraise for Keytruda treatment.

Now it’s under way, he’s able to take back some of his health and the community has played a big part in fundraising. Such good news.

The school holidays are headed our way again so we have a fun quiz for teenagers looking for a challenge.

What are the kids up to these holidays?

We’d love to print some snaps of fun things the kids are up so send them our way to news@katiaktiadvertiser.co.nz