Pupils push important message
Levin East School topped the junior section at the show quest national final, New Zealand’s largest performing arts competition for schools.
Levin East impressed with its ‘‘true colours’’ theme, based on gender diversity. The school also won most innovative use of lighting and the uplifter award for best positive message.
Blaike Hapeta, 9, said the group picked the theme ‘‘because you should be able to show your true colours and express who you are’’.
‘‘Don’t be afraid to be who you are, be courageous.’’
The programme has previously centred on live regional events.
This year organisers offered show quest on screen as an adapted version due to Covid-19 restrictions on public gatherings.
National co-ordinator Kelsey Moller said the response to this year’s programme was positive. ‘‘We were able to provide young creative rangatahi with a platform to express themselves, and we have all felt the importance of that this year in particular.
‘‘It has been incredible to see what the next generation of directors, videographers and editors are creating.’’
Teams were judged on their technical skills, performance, movement and overall theme by Chris Mac of Six60, Angela
Bloomfield, Shae Sterling and Todd Williamson. Mac said: ‘‘These entrants have exhibited incredible creativity and skill.
‘‘To produce a piece that creatively is so developed, while also being choreographed, shot and edited together to such a high quality is just so impressive.’’
Northcross Intermediate School, from Auckland, was second and Ngatea Primary School in Thames Valley third.
Mount Aspiring College, from Wanaka, was the top senior school.