“He was not of an age, but for all time.”
— Ben Jonson, poet and contemporary of Shakespeare
We all know how transcendental and beautifully written Shakespeare plays are – how they have managed to stay relevant across centuries due to its literary genius. However, how many of us have watched a Hamlet play set in the Elizabethan era? Or a modern take on Macbeth?
For many students, the opportunity to perform either unique or traditional interpretations of Shakespeare’s work rose last week, during the Shakespeare Globe Centre New Zealand Shakespeare Festival. Hosted by our very own Carmel College on Friday 4 April and Saturday 5 April, students from all over the Auckland North area had the opportunity to act 5-15 minute performances inspired by Shakespeare – all competing for a place at Nationals, a direct entry to the National Shakespeare Schools Production (NSSP), and more.
The SGCNZ main aim is to transform lives by mentoring potential talent through experiencing Shakespeare. Sponsored by Victoria University of Wellington, the competitions allow students to unleash their creative aspirations through one of the world’s greatest playwrights – providing an exciting opportunity to inspire innovation on stage.
Against eight other Auckland North schools, and over 34 performances, the judges – Rose Herda and Glenda Pearce – decided that one production stood out above the rest: Carmel College’s Othello!
Directed by Carmel students Sophia Adamson, Katarina Lockyer and Maya Timlin, and played by Tanna Van Rensburg, Ava Waterhouse and Gigi Albrecht, their powerful five minute scene from Othello – a compelling drama of infidelity and murder – amazed the judges and earned them a well deserved place at the National Shakespeare Festival in Wellington.
In spite of the high stakes in the competition, there was a warm, encouraging and positive atmosphere between all participants. At the end of the Saturday performances, students from different schools began playing theatre games together in our theatre – a wonderful symbol of mutual respect fostering unity and bonding us tighter by a shared love of performance. Groups cheered each other and clapped enthusiastically in each performance, creating an environment of collaboration and connection.
A special thanks for the teachers, counsellors and school administrators who helped organise and manage the event especially to Mrs Allan, whose dedication made it possible for Carmel College to become a venue for cultural celebration. Huge appreciation as well for the girls who supported us all the way with The Faith Cafe, providing sweet treats and drinks, and the students that volunteered to assure the groups got on stage smoothly and on time – your efforts did not go unnoticed!
“All the world’s a stage, and all the men and women merely players”- William Shakespeare. Last week was Carmel’s opportunity to be the stage where young performers could shine and share their passion for theatre; displaying their talents in front of professionals, as well as a great chance to meet peers with the same goals. Creating a vibrant and welcoming environment, along with outstanding performances, there’s only one way to describe The Auckland North Shakespeare Festival: a memorable success.
Bernie Hoyo Gibson, Year 11
