Q. What arts disciplines have you been involved in throughout your life?
A. Throughout my life, I have been involved in productions, dance, singing, Soapbox, Speech and Drama, choir, and band. I started my arts journey with dance classes when I was five, quickly finding my love for performing. I now learn Contemporary, Jazz, Musical Theatre, and Indian Cultural Dancing through the Desi Dancers group
I have also always loved singing, especially in choirs, and have sung in my old primary school’s choir, Chapel Choir, VV, Bella Cantoris, Dio Cantoris, and St C, as well as starting competitive solo singing in Year 7.
Over my years at Dio, I have taken part in many school and outside-of-school productions. Some highlights have been Chitty Chitty Bang Bang (my Year 5 production), Frozen, where I played Young Anna, The Sound of Music (twice!), playing both Marta and Brigitta, Mary Poppins as Jane Banks, and Annie.
On top of this, I have played the trumpet in multiple bands since I started at Dio in Year 5 and taken part in school Soapbox competitions, where I placed first in Year 6 and Year 8 and was a finalist in Year 9. I love all aspects of the arts and enjoy making the most of all the opportunities offered to me at Dio and beyond!
Q. What is your reason for engaging in such a large spectrum of arts?
A. I believe the reason I engage in such a large spectrum of the arts is because of the supportive, fun environment provided by our Dio arts programme. I have made so many friends and been supported by many teachers who have encouraged me along my arts journey so far. I love getting to know new people across many different ages, disciplines, and schools, and being able to learn from them.
Q. What has been your favourite moment in the performing arts?
A. One of my favourite moments in the arts was when my friends Ruby, Maddie, and I combined our passions for service and the arts during our Year 10 Community Project, where we performed a variety of songs at retirement villages for elderly people with dementia. This was particularly memorable because I got to do what I love while also bringing joy to a community in need.
Another special moment for me was singing on Coast Radio alongside some other cast members to promote Encore Theatre Collective’s The Sound of Music. This was a really fun experience because I got to see inside a radio studio and meet the hosts.
At the end of last year, I also travelled with a small Encore choir, and we performed at the Will Martin Christmas Concert in Hamilton. I really enjoyed learning from such an experienced performer and getting to spend a really fun road trip with my friends!
Lastly, one of my proudest moments was in Dunedin when St C’s Gold Award was announced at The Big Sing Finale last year. It was amazing to celebrate all our hard work with the rest of the choirs at Finale!
Q. How would you convince someone wanting to get into performing arts to take that step?
A. The performing arts have many parts to them, so I would recommend exploring all the options! There are so many diverse ways to get involved, and there is something for everyone.
As a first step, I would recommend starting dance classes, taking music lessons, or joining a choir, which are all great ways to grow your skills and confidence as a performer. There are lots of unauditioned options, so you don’t need to worry about whether you are “good enough” to join.
However, if you don’t like the idea of being onstage, you could sign up to assist backstage, help design sets, or work in the wardrobe! I personally love working front of house because you get to talk to so many interesting people. If you are unsure of what you would enjoy, talk to one of your arts friends or classmates, and they can tell you more!
