This past weekend, Orewa College ākonga took to the stage at Carmel College for the annual Sheilah Winn Shakespeare Festival, joining schools from across Aotearoa to perform powerful scenes from the works of William Shakespeare.

Students prepare for regional performances of King Lear, Macbeth and The Comedy of Errors

This past weekend, Orewa College ākonga took to the stage at Carmel College for the annual Sheilah Winn Shakespeare Festival, joining schools from across Aotearoa to perform powerful scenes from the works of William Shakespeare.

The festival features 5 and 15-minute performances, with each school interpreting Shakespeare in their own way. Orewa College proudly entered three pieces, with student-led direction across all performances. Scenes from King Lear and Macbeth were brought to life alongside an alumni-directed performance from The Comedy of Errors.

Preparation began late last year, with student directors carefully selecting scenes before rehearsals commenced at the beginning of the term. Over three months, casts committed to regular practices during intervals, lunchtimes, and after school, developing both their understanding of Shakespeare’s language and their ability to perform it with confidence.

Directors also took full ownership of their productions, organising costumes, props, and set pieces to support their creative vision. Nayana Truvale-Moore, one of the student directors, shared her pride in her cast, saying, “I am so proud of my cast.” The result was a series of engaging performances that reflected a passion for Shakespeare.

Fellow alumni director Maria Walker-Kinnell highlighted the importance of connecting with the audience, saying, “I wanted to have a laugh and entertain an audience.”

The festival provided a valuable opportunity for ākonga to grow their confidence while celebrating the enduring relevance of Shakespeare in a modern context.

Content Credit: Geoffrey Heaney