- By Vivek Panchal, AUT Journalism Student
Two teenage east Auckland performing artists have been honoured with selection to a prestigious acting company.
Howick College drama students Aria Takle-Lee and Finnbar O’Sullivan will join the 2025 SGCNZ Young Shakespeare Company after their 15-minute adaptation of the Two Gentlemen of Verona impressed judges with their performance.
They participated at the SGCNZ Sheila Winn National Shakespeare Festival, earning their places at the National Shakespeare Schools Production (NSSP) in Dunedin.
The pair will travel with the company to London next year, spending three weeks visiting theatres and participating in workshops taught by acting professionals, culminating in a final performance at the world-renowned Shakespeare Globe Theatre.
It’s not the first accolade for both students, as they’ve been recognised as best actor and actress respectively for their roles in Howick College’s production of Blood Brothers.
O’Sullivan, also a recipient of the coveted Howick College performer of the year award, says: “Receiving the call about London after the weeklong wait was just the cherry on top of an incredible experience.
“I’m so grateful for this opportunity and to share it with such talented people.
“While my path for the future lies in medicine, my performing arts achievements and experiences are ones I will always hold close and continue to pursue as a passion,” O’Sullivan says.
Takle-Lee, who plans to make a career in musical theatre, says the experience at the SGCNZ NSSP in Dunedin was a chance for her to learn more about her acting craft and make friends through the course.
“I feel incredibly lucky to have the opportunity to go to London and immerse myself in more amazing workshops, performances, and events,” says Takle-Lee.
“Doing all of this with such incredible people makes it even more special.”
Jillian Dryden, the Howick College drama department head, says: “This year has been a significant one for Finnbar and Aria.
“Although it marks their final year and many ‘lasts’, it has also been filled with exciting firsts. We couldn’t be prouder of their achievements.
“Their passion, dedication, and openness to learning have shone through their work in the arts this year.”
The east Auckland college has a history of its drama students being selected to be part of the company, with Lily Moore being selected in 2021, and Bianca Day in 2023.
