Botany Downs Secondary College has taken out first place in the Stage Challenge RAW Division with their performance Endangered species.
The Stage Challenge is New Zealand’s largest and longest-running youth performing arts event.
Macleans College took third place.
Botany Downs Secondary College’s performance at the ASB Theatre at Aotea Centre last night focused on the “devastating reasons that many animals are endangered”. The main issues covered in their piece included pollution, the ever-growing human population and the destruction of their natural habitats.
“Botany Downs Secondary College really wowed the crowd with their moving piece on extinction,” said event manager Olivia Kinane.
“Watching the narrative unfold was truly mesmerising. They truly did themselves proud.”
Performance judge, Jazz Heaven said: “I can tell there has been an incredible amount of work and consideration put into the costuming, hair, make-up and props – this performance was a was a visual treat for me.”
In a close second place was Westlake Girls High School with Materialism, a story focused around a teen fighting the decision between becoming a doctor or choosing her passion of dance.
Production judge Braydon Priest said: “Delightful leads – a real pleasure to watch.”
Miss Kinane added: “The RAW Division schools put on a fantastic show for Auckland tonight. Every student showcased a high level of creativity and passion, showcasing the evident hard work and determination that they had put into their performance.
“Tonight’s show truly reflects how Stage Challenge is a great pathway for youth to creatively express themselves and their values in a safe and healthy way.”
She said the Stage Challenge and J Rock offer a platform for students to develop self-belief, confidence and resilience, as the safe, fun and exciting atmosphere upholds key values of attending school, working towards realistic education goals, and staying fit and healthy without tobacco, alcohol and other drugs.
Stage Challenge show results July 6
Botany Downs Secondary College 1; Westlake Girls’ High School 2; Macleans College3.
Ministry of Education Award of Excellence for Concept
Papatoetoe High School, Takapuna Grammar School, Orewa College, Massey High School, Rangitoto College, Selwyn College.
