On the 19th of May 2017, students from Christchurch Boys' and Christchurch Girls' High Schools participated in one of Christchurch's most highly anticipated dance competitions, the Stage Challenge Competition. 

Secondary school students from all over Canterbury came together to compete for the top performing school title while delivering a deep message about a societal issue. 

There were many participants in the CBGHS Stage Challenge group this year and each performer had the opportunity to take part in an amazing event. Through relentless training and with thrilling motivation the CBGHS team was able to show Canterbury what we can do. 

Our dance routines were inspired by the challenges faced in contemporary times by increasing dependence on technology, and how technology has resulted in the loss of jobs. 

The question we asked through our final performance was, “Is it time for us as a society to switch off?”, implying that we all need to consider whether or not the technology we possess is doing us any good, or not. By participating in this campaign we had many experiences, and were able to increase our skill levels in both dancing and basketball (a common activity the students did at break time). 

Awards received by CBGHS Stage Challenge Group: 

• Excellence for Soundtrack Excellence for Choreography 
• Excellence for Performance Skill Excellence for Visual 
• Enhancement Excellence for Set Design and Function 
• Excellence for Drama Excellence for Costume
• Character Excellence for Stage use
  

The troupe formed special bonds with each other that were unique and special to us. At the end of our performance the boys performed the sacred haka for the girls out of respect and gratitude for all the work and contribution they, the leaders, and all of us put into Stage Challenge 2017. 

What an unforgettable ride it was, and it is certainly something students should consider doing next year. View some more of the pictures online.

Aroha nui ki ngā kotiro o Te Kura Wahine Toa o Otautahi me te Kura Tamatane o Otautahi mo te kaha i whakātu ana rātou ki te rohe o Waitaha, ki roto i te mahi kanikani me etahi atu pukenga miharo. 

Nga Mihi
Brigham Riwai-Couch