Suicide theme adds drama to Showquest win

 

Bream Bay College took out the Northland Showquest held at Whangarei’s Forum North on June 20 in the first regional event of New Zealand’s new music, dance and drama showcase for schools.

Local teens captured the spirit of the event in themes that are important to them, such as social media, family conflict and access to education. The winning team of students from Bream Bay College chose the theme of suicide for their performance piece.

When the team joined together at the beginning of the school term, they first looked at how they could safely work with the theme, and only after seeking input from mental health professionals and extensively researching did the group begin to choreograph the piece fully. Co-captain Ceili Lea said her team wanted to use the platform of Showquest to make a difference.

“Being on the stage is just the best feeling,” said the 17-year-old dancer. “Just knowing that your performance can impact people in the audience makes my heart feel so warm. We’re just buzzing.” Bream Bay College principal Wayne Buckland, said he was proud of his students: “The performance they had was a super high standard, but the other three secondary schools were amazing also.” Teams in the competitive section were judged overall on their performance, soundtrack, costuming, choreography, and theme.

Judge, New Zealand singer Jackie Clarke, said she was very moved: “I was thoroughly entertained, I was challenged, and I was delighted to see how so many of the elements it takes to make up a good production were here and were evident tonight.” Overall Whangarei Girls’ High School was second and Dargaville High School third.