Upskilling Southland's performing arts 'from page to stage'

“The joy of this programme is it runs alongside an actual production which allows the participants to further learn through observation and putting their learning into practice by being involved.”

Southland’s performing arts scene is getting another boost this month with the team from StageAntics coming to town.

Emma Bishop, director, producer and vocal coach will be joined by Jack Barnard, multi-instrumentalist and musical director and Darcy Goodall, choreographer and dancer, to provide a high calibre opportunity for locals interested in upskilling taking a show from page to stage.

Their visit includes a professional development opportunity for people keen to learn more about the production of a show, things like Directing, Choreographing, Musical Directing, Production Management and designing.

This weekend-long workshop will provide participants the skills to take a show from page to stage and be an opportunity to work with professionals and build on existing skills. The workshop will take place on August 19 and 20.

Bishop encourages everyone at all levels to get involved.

“This programme is for all levels - perhaps you are someone wanting to step up but do not know where to start or know if you have the knowledge and experience. Or you have found yourself in a leadership role doing what you think you should but are not actually sure. This programme will help cement your knowledge, grow your confidence and help you step up.”

Participants will then have the opportunity to put those skills to use and be part of the team that puts on Show in a Week in the next school holidays. This show is also an opportunity for young people to get involved.

Bishop notes: “The joy of this programme is it runs alongside an actual production which allows the participants to further learn through observation and putting their learning into practice by being involved.”

Local composer and musical director and tutor at SIT|Te Pukenga, Sally Bodkin-Allen is excited about this opportunity to learn as well.

“I have done musical directing before but it’s always great to learn how others do it and new things. Having this opportunity here in Murihiku Southland is fantastic.”

Show in a Week will be held in the September school holidays and is an opportunity for young people to work with professionals and be in a show put on in a week. This year’s show is Disney’s Newsies JR.

Registrations are open now and spaces are limited. If you have commitments that mean you can’t attend the whole workshop please get in touch to make suitable arrangements.

Register now for Newsies JR at https://forms.gle/uCn2wroFKLJGdDdQ6

Register Progressive Pathways workshop at https://forms.gle/xHj7iPgNYHVpQyzVA

This opportunity is being supported by Kennedy School of Music and Arts Murihiku.