In Term One two enthusiastic teams led by directors Amy Woermann and Molly Noven set out to create two scenes from Shakespearean plays for the University of Otago Sheilah Winn Shakespeare Festival. They expected to perform on stage at the end of Term One but then we went into lockdown.

The Festival organisers, facing the uncertainty of covid-19 set up an on-line competition. Directors attended meetings, planning how to keep the energy going online and adapt their pieces for the camera.

Back at school teams worked very hard in breaks and after school to prepare for the filming and our end of term Arts Evening on 24 June. The 5 minute group, with students from Year 7 to 13, worked on Romeo and Juliet, Act 1: Scene 1 as a riotous marketplace fight between the Capulets and the Montagues. Amy, assisted by Hannah-Mae worked hard on planning the fight choreography. It is a delightful act with vibrant characters and lots of colour and energy.

A group of talented, experienced Year 11 students, veterans of the Festival having started in Year 7, tackled the challenging play The Taming of the Shrew with Act 2:Scene 1 where the brash Petrucio woos the fiery Katarina. Managed by the ever efficient Molly, assisted by Natasha, the actors were Sam, Jessica, Nadia, and Meagan. This rich characterization of these colourful characters created a complex and highly entertaining performance. Excellent work showing commitment, resilience, respectful team work and proud achievement.