SGCNZ NEWS

SGCNZ University of Otago Sheilah Winn Shakespeare Festival Dates for 2023

Our Regional and National UOSWSF dates have been confirmed for 2023! Please click the link below for information regarding your region and for the National Festival coming up in June of this year!

2023 SGCNZ UOSWSF Dates & Information

Shakespeare Globe Centre New Zealand
ASSISTANT TO THE CEO

SGCNZ is seeking an arts administrator with considerable experience to replace the current Assistant to the CEO, who is sadly resigning, owing to pressures of university studies. A keen interest in theatre, delight in working with young people, and a wide range of administrative and personal competencies are vital!

The Assistant to the CEO is a 0.8 role – ie 4 days a week or equivalent, in person in our office in central Wellington. The role requires someone who is keen to assist the CEO with organisation, promotion and other tasks relating to its events and daily operations. Paramount qualities include enthusiasm, clarity of understanding and accuracy in communication orally and in written form.
The Role comprises:
• general arts administration, including sending out information, collating responses, managing databases
• undertaking tasks as assigned to facilitate and promote events and activities
• writing and disseminating promotional material, via all media outlets, including social media
• updating and maintaining the website and currency of information on all platforms
• light financial duties, requiring knowledge of Xero
• managing memberships and donation databases
• dealing with merchandise orders, dissemination and stocktaking

How to apply
– Write a one-page cover letter (up to 400 words) stating why you wish to be appointed to this role
– Attach a CV and previous experience (max 2 pages)
– Provide contact details of 2 arts or education related referees, who are willing to be contacted
– Complete form on the website: sgcnz.org.nz
Applications close at noon on 27 January 2023. The position is available from 18 February 2023
Interviews of shortlisted applicants will be held in person (depending on COVID-19 regulations), or by Zoom, Skype or Teams. Include your preferred contact mode if shortlisted
Discussion will be held regarding remuneration then, in light of experience
State earliest date from when you could be available after the closing date
Send to: Dawn Sanders ONZM, QSM, SGCNZ CEO
Email to: dawn@sgcnz.org.nz (max 2 MB with AtoCEO & your name in the subject line)
or Post to: SGCNZ, PO Box 17 215, Wellington 6147
or Courier to: Dawn Sanders, 12 Cargill Street, Karori, Wellington 6012 (marked Confidential)
Police Vetting – The successful applicant will be Police Vetted for working with young people
All applicants must have the legal right to work in New Zealand

Region: Wellington
Closing date: 27 January 2023 Noon

AsstoCEO – Job Brief VI 23[20392]

AsstoCEO – Application Form 23[20389]

Statement from the SGCNZ Board                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                          We apologise for failing to respond immediately and robustly to express our dismay and outrage at the racist vitriol related to our recent funding issue.                                                                              We condemn racism, in all its forms, in the strongest possible terms.

By our delay, we contributed to and exacerbated a feeling that SGCNZ supported views which were critical of Kahikatea grant recipients on the grounds of race.  As a Board, we have been alerted to the need to be more responsive thanks to articles by commentators, as well as direct feedback from our own supporters and the broader arts community.

Through listening to the painful experiences of others, and drawing on our own experiences, we understand that many feel SGCNZ focused excessively on getting funding for our organisation, irrespective of the cost to others.

We have reflected extensively on our part in contributing to this conflict.

In particular, we regret that the ensuing SGCNZ media interactions left very little space for four successful organisations to celebrate their well-deserved achievement of obtaining funding to continue the brilliant and important creative mahi that they do.

We apologise here, publicly, that our drama eclipsed their success. We firmly believe that our sector is all the richer for their ongoing contribution and mana.  We should have voiced our tautoko and care towards them earlier. That was our mistake and flawed process, and for all the continued mamae this has caused, we are truly sorry.                                                                                                    We are striving to continue to learn, to listen, and to grow.

Paul Foster-Bell (Ng?ti Kahu ki Whangaroa / Te Aup?uri)

Chair, on behalf of the SGCNZ Trust Board

Last Call: Order Merchandise for Christmas

This Christmas give the Gift of Shakespeare (Quotes) and order one of our Hoodies/T-Shirts/Crewnecks,…  with Shakespeare’s best Quotes on them as a Christmas Gift for your loved ones.

Also available are an array of books and Postcards, as well as Stocking Stuffers like Power-Banks, Magnets and Embroidery Kits for the Shakey Enthusiast in your life.

Click here and fill out order form until 24 November to receive by Christmas!

From Classroom to the Globe!

SGCNZ Teachers Go Global 2023 is happening! Application deadline extended to 25 November!!

In 2023 the two week course will take place between 30 June and 16 July.

The course is designed as a professional development opportunity for teachers from throughout New Zealand of students from Years 1 – 13. Home School Educators, Community Drama Tutors and private sector speech and drama teachers, may also apply.                                                                                                      This intensive course will conclude with an invited public showcase performance of scenes on the Globe stage, including a short one by the Teachers!

The skills learnt do not just apply to Shakespeare – they are completely transferable into any teaching situation and for all ages. Most of all, it provides professional and personal development and capability building.

Click for more information and application form

SGCNZ Young Shakespeare Company 2023

Congratulations to all the successful students selected for SGCNZ Young Shakespeare Company 2023!

We had such a strong field of incredibly talented, passionate, and amazing actors that choosing just 24 was truly difficult.

We know many will be disappointed to not see their names below, but we encourage everyone to keep acting, learning, and growing – while this door might not have opened, there will be so many more opportunities throughout your journey.

You can access the full list by clicking the link below:

https://docs.google.com/document/d/1x-hBsmuozBez3b_xjIb1mbMw5KAJebr5/edit?usp=sharing&ouid=115660651527272765875&rtpof=true&sd=true

And remember:

Keep loving Shakespeare!

SGCNZ Memberships Now Due!

To join or renew your SGCNZ Membership, click for more information!

“givealittle” funding

The Ministry of Education has pledged to partially fund the work of SGCNZ after Creative New Zealand decided to decline SGCNZ’s application.

Putting up events in order to provide life skill enhancing opportunities to young New Zealanders by performing and absorbing the works of Shakespeare costs a lot more than the money the provided by the Ministry of Education.

We would be grateful for your financial support, so we can continue our important work.

We have set up a “givealittle” account  to receive your generous support. Your donations to the SGCNZ, a registered Charity, CC23945, are deductible for New Zealand tax residents and a one-third rebate is available on all donations of NZ$5 and more.

“Your great benefactors, sprinkle our society with thankfulness. For your own gifts make yourselves praised.” Timon of Athens, Act III, Scene 6.

Serendipity by Design

Memoirs of a theatre designer – Raymond Boyce MBE, HON LIT D

Serendipity by Design – Order Form.

Wars of the Roses

“Sound drums and trumpets!” SGCNZ presents Wars of the Roses a compilation of scenes from Shakespeare’s Henry VI, Parts 1, 2 & 3, plus other surprise items. Directed by KC Kelly this is the culminating performance of SGCNZ Mini National Shakespeare Schools Production provided for those students unable to attend SGCNZ NSSP 2021 due to lockdown last year.

Thursday 27 January 1.00-2.00pm, at Tapere Iti, Te Auaha, 65 Dixon Street, Wellington

Tickets $10-$20 to book contact sgcnz@sgcnz.org.nz, phone 04 384 1300. Door sales available

SGCNZ NSSP 2021- VENUE CHANGE

Stop Press! Owing to issues relating to Covid we have just received notice we are sadly unable to perform at Parliament on Sunday afternoon.

However! We have kindly been allowed to hire an alternative performance space in Te Whaea: National Dance and Drama School. The theatre cliché of ‘the show must go on’ has never proved more true and we are so excited we will be able to share this special event with you. The Farewell Function at Loaves and Fishes will proceed as planned.

NEW VENUE – Te Whaea National Dance and Drama Centre – 11 Hutchison Road, Newtown –  Sunday 10 October 4.00pm

No physical tickets are required for this performance, you will be required to sign in at the SGCNZ Ticket Desk on arrival.

We suggest you arrive within plenty of time to check in and to find seats while allowing for Covid event regulations and restrictions. The venue will open to the  audience at 3.15pm.

Directions
Te Whaea is a five minute drive from the central city, with bus stops a short walking distance away on 11 Hutchison Road. Free Parking is available at the venue.

Te Whaea National Dance and Drama School on Google Maps.

Do let us know if you have any questions.

‘The play’s the thing’ We hope you have a fabulous time and look forward to seeing you there!

Job Opportunity – Assistant to the CEO

18/09/2021

With our current wonderful Assistant to the CEO resigning owing to ill–health of a family member, SGCNZ is sadly, but urgently, seeking a replacement for her. A keen interest in theatre, delight in working with young people, and a wide range of administrative and personal competencies are vital!

For more detailed information please download the job description below.

How to apply

– Write a one page letter (up to 400 words) stating why you wish to be appointed to this role – Attach a CV and previous experience (max 2 pages)

– Provide contact details of 2 arts or education related referees, who are willing to be contacted

– Complete the form below

Applications close at 11pm on Thursday 30 September. The position is available from 18 October 2021

– Interviews of shortlisted applicants will be held in person (depending on COVID-19 regulations), or by Zoom, Skype or Teams. Include your preferred contact mode if shortlisted

– State earliest date from when you could be available after the closing date

– Send to: Dawn Sanders ONZM QSM, SGCNZ CEO E: dawn@sgcnz.org.nz (max 2 MB with AtoCEO & your name in the subject line) SGCNZ, PO Box 17 215, Wellington 6147 or courier to Dawn Sanders, 12 Cargill Street, Karori, Wellington 6012 (marked Confidential)

All applicants must have the legal right to work in New Zealand

Application Form PDF

Application Form DOC

Job Description PDF

Job Description DOC

Region: Wellington

Closing date: 30 Sep 2021

SGCNZ National Shakespeare Schools Production 2021

Tragedy. Corruption. Rebellion. Love. Honour. Redemption.

Romeo & Juliet. Measure for Measure. Henry IV Part I.

Experience Shakespeare’s works and themes take on a new light; 48 students from around Aotearoa join together to present a selection of scenes from these plays.

Thrill in their performance – the culmination of 5 half days of rehearsals with esteemed directors Grace Hoet, Tom McCrory and Jonathon Price, workshops led by remarkable tutors and an inspiring adventure around Wellington.

This is not old school Shakespeare – this is exhilarating SGCNZ National Shakespeare Schools Production.

Saturday 9 October 7.30pm, Sky Stadium- Wellington Book Tickets Here

SGCNZ Entries Open for Dance Nimble Soles

We look forward to seeing the ‘… imaginary forces work!’

Choreographers can create a Shakespeare inspired 3-10 minute dance item of any type, culture, ethnicity or style, with a brief description reflecting the chosen Shakespeare play and/or characters. Casts may have from 2 up to 40 performers. There are no age limits. In addition to dancers, these may include actors, singers, musicians.

Live musicians are welcome. However, the music must be original, out of copyright, or from the APRA/Creative Commons/Free Music Archives.

Although spoken words may be incorporated, it is first and foremost a dance work… “dancing shoes with nimble soles” Romeo & Juliet

Dance Nimble Soles, Lower Hutt Little Theatre, 24 June – 7.00pm

Bookings are now open through iticket.co.nz booking fees will apply

For more information and to register click here

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Some recent features include:

30th Anniversary events, activities and celebrations

Where’s William- Shakespeare performances around NZ and the world

Shakespeare thou art- our favourite artworks inspired by the Bard.

Shakespeare’s play, A-Z – we are up to play number 10- Henry V!

Let us feast: some Shakespeare snacks

Telling tales of Lockdown- from Lucy Cuthbertson, Shakespeare’s Globe Head of Learning

Audition Notices

Resource Material

SGCNZ National UOSWSF Tickets on Sale Now!

Experience the extraordinary talent of students from around NZ as they present their innovative and creative interpretations of the Bard’s work.

Delectable bite-size 5 and 15 minute performances will capture your imagination and bring Shakespeare to life in new and fascinating ways.

SGCNZ Pearler of a Raffle

We are pleased to announce the winners of our Pearler of a Raffle, drawn on Shakespeare’s Birthday.

Our grateful thanks to all those who purchased tickets and contributed to our funds to help us
present our programmes and opportunities, especially for young people, and to all the
generous donors of the prizes:Viv Thomson, BHB Designs – Helen & Brian Barrett, Tolis Papazoglou, Paul Foster-Bell, Circa Theatre, BATS Theatre, Court Theatre, ATC (Auckland Theatre Company), Royal
Albatross Centre, Dunedin.

For the complete list of winners please click here

SGCNZ University of Otago Sheilah Winn Shakespeare Festival

Each year, SGCNZ holds 24 Festivals nationwide, in which secondary-age students, from 11 to 19 years old, perform 5- and 15-minute scenes from Shakespeare’s plays, set in any time, place, ethnicity and attire – though definitely in Shakespeare’s words, in English or translated!

Come and support your regional students as they showcase their creative and innovative adaptions of Bard’s work!

An outstanding 5- and a 15-minute scene from each region will be chosen to perform at the National Festival and participate in the workshops, tours, talks and more held in Wellington over Queen’s Birthday weekend at the Michael Fowler Centre and other locations within the city.

2021 is SGCNZ’s 30th Anniversary Year and we look forward to celebrating the extraordinary talents of our participants, alumni, supporters, donors and friends at this and our many other events throughout the year.

SATURDAY 27 MARCH

Rotorua / Lakes
Sat 27 March 11am
The Thurston Theatre
John Paul College Performing Arts Centre
Door sales $10 Adults, $5 Students

Canterbury ki te Raki
Sat 27 March 1.00pm
Middleton Grange School
Door sales $5 General admission

K?piti
Sat 27 March 2.00pm
Te Raukura o K?piti, K?piti College
Door sales $5 General admission

Nelson / Tasman / Golden Bay
Sat 27 March
Nayland College
Door sales $5 General admission

SUNDAY 28 MARCH

Canterbury ki te Tonga
Sun 28 March 1.00pm
Christchurch Boys’ High School
Door sales $5 General admission

MONDAY 29 MARCH

TaranakiMon 29 March 11.30am
TET King’s Theatre, Broadway, Stratford
Door sales $5 General admission

TUESDAY 30 MARCH

Southland
Tuesday 30 March 6.30pm
Southland Girls’ High School
Door sales $5 General admission

WEDNESDAY 7 APRIL

Tai Tokerau    
Wed 7 April 4-9.00pm
Kamo High School
Door sales $5 Adults,   $3 Students

Bay of Plenty 
Wed 7 April, 6pm
Mt Maunganui College Hall
Door sales $5 General admission

THURSDAY 8 APRIL

Aoraki  
Thurs 8 April, 1pm
Geraldine High School
Door sales $5 General admission

Auckland Central    
Thurs 8 April 4.30pm
Diocesan School for Girls,
Door sales or iticket.co.nz $10 Adults, $5 Students

FRIDAY 9 APRIL

Auckland Central    
Fri 9 April 5.45pm
Diocesan School for Girls,Door sales or iticket.co.nz $10 Adults, $5 Students

Auckland North
Fri 9 April 6.30pm
Albany Junior High School Performance AuditoriumDoor sales

SATURDAY 10 APRIL

Auckland Central  
Sat 10 April 9.00am
Diocesan School for Girls,
Door sales or iticket.co.nz $10 Adults, $5 Students

Auckland North
Sat 10 April 10.15am
Albany Junior High School Performance Auditorium
Door sales

Auckland South & East 
Sat 10 April 12.30pm (Briefing for cast & crew from 10am)
Botany Downs Secondary College
Door sales $10 Adults, $5 Students /Unwaged

Marlborough    
Sat 10 April 5pm
Malborough Girls’ CollegeDoor sales $12 Adults, $7 Students

Waikato    Sat 10 April
Hamilton Boys’ High School
Door sales $8 Adults, $5 Students

SUNDAY 11 APRIL

Auckland West 
Sun 11 April 9am – 8pm
Dove Theatre, Kristin School,
Door sales $10 Adults, $5 Student and Child

South Waikato (Matamata-Piako)      
Sun 11 April 2.00pm
Taupo-nui-a-tia College Hall
Door sales $10 Adults, $5 Students

Whanganui / Manawatu / Rangitikei
Sun 11 April
Feilding High School
Door sales $5 Adults,   $2 Students

TUESDAY 13 APRIL

East Coast    
Tues 13 April 7.00pm
Unity Theatre
Door sales $10 Adults, $5 Students

Wairarapa        
Tues 13 April 7.00pm
Wairarapa College Hall
Door sales $6 Adults, $4 Students

Wellington        
Tues 13 April 7.00-9.30pm
Wellington East Girls’ College Hall
Door sales or iticket.co.nz $14 Adults $7 Students
SGCNZ Friends $12 Adults, $6 Friends

WEDNESDAY 14 APRIL

Wellington
Weds 14 April 7.00-9.30pm
Wellington East Girls’ College Hall
Door sales or iticket.co.nz $14 Adults $7 Students
SGCNZ Friends $12 Adults, $6 Friends

THURSDAY 15 APRIL

Hawke’s Bay   
Thur 15 April 5.30pm
Repertory Theatre, Napier
Koha

Buller / West Coast  
Thur 15 April, 7pm
Art Hotel Westport
Door sales $10 Adult, $5 Student

Otago   

Thur 15 April
King’s and Queen’s High School Performing Arts Centre
Door sales $5 General Admission

Wellington         
Thur 15 April 7.00-10.00pm
Wellington East Girls’ College Hall
Door sales or iticket.co.nz $14 Adults $7 Students
riends $12 Adults, $6 Friends

4/03/2021

‘In the wings’ covid 2021

SGCNZ e-UOSWSF Plan of Action

In the possible situation of Covid affecting one or more regions again this year, SGCNZ has in place an emergency digital plan – ‘In the Wings’.

We have posted the slightly tweaked final version of the SGCNZ University of Otago Sheilah Winn Shakespeare Festival Filming Guidelines of 2020 on the SGCNZ click here  and University of Otago otago.ac.nz/Shakespeare/ websites for use this year if necessary.

If a whole Region needs to ‘go digital’, it can be submitted and will be assessed in the same way as last year, through the process outlined in the Guidelines. If just a few schools are closed, they can submit their scenes on film to be assessed in a collective Virtual Region, which will be viewed by assigned Assessors and selections made under the same policies.

It is recommended that all groups film their scenes as soon as they are able or feel ready to, remembering simplicity and use of the camera as audience is what is required, rather than creating an elaborate short film.
It will be useful to preview these to self-evaluate your scene, even if it is performed live, which we certainly hope all can be.

However, if a Lockdown call is made which precludes this, rest assured, we are ready to respond immediately and again create e-Festivals as necessary and receive your films you have ‘waiting in the wings’! These worked last year!!

Please contact Dawn Sanders, SGCNZ CEO if you have any queries M: 027 283 6016 LL: 04 384 1300
E: dawn@sgcnz.org.nz

4 March 2021

28/02/2021

COVID LEVEL KILLS SHAKESPEARE IN THE GARDEN

SGCNZ is extremely sad to report that it has been necessary to cancel today’s event, Shakesbeer in the Garden, owing to the effect in Wellington of the raising of the Covid Lockdown to Level 2.

We are very grateful to facilitators of the event, Southern Cross Tavern and Garden Bar and the Garage Project and collaborators, Playshop and Mr Wizowski, as well as our own Interns, Volunteers and staff (of 2,) for their efforts towards endeavouring to make this much needed fund-raising event for SGCNZ happen. We are very upset that it can’t.

Thank you to all who planned to attend. Refunds will be made to ticketholders via Eventbrite

10/02/2021

ShakesBeer in the Garden: The Taming of the Brew | A fundraiser for SGCNZ

This February, Garage Project, Shakespeare Globe Centre NZ, Playshop & Southern Cross Garden Bar Restaurant join forces once again to bring you a fundraiser with a difference. Come on down & enjoy a bit of The Bard in The Garden Bar!

ENTERTAINMENT 

Join PlayShop as they perform Shakespeare like you’ve never seen it before (or again). From the best improvisors at this event, either for tragedy, comedy, history, pastoral, pastrol-comical, historical-pastoral, tragical-historical, tragical-comical-historical-pastoral, scene individable, or poem unlimited, an entirely new Shakespeare play created before your very eyes! These talented thespians will interact with all, groundlings to gallows, to ensure a lively and memorable evening. If we be waspish, best beware our sting.

CHARITY BEER  

In honour of the event, Garage Project will be treating us to a special charity batch of Ruffneck: an all new beer brewed just for this event. Full proceeds from the first keg will be going directly to SGCNZ, which will be pouring from a pop up bar in the Garden.

TICKETS | Buy Now

Tickets will be limited, and are available via Eventbrite, or at the door (limited availability). All proceeds from ticket sales will be donated directly to SGCNZ – read more about this awesome not-for-profit organisation below!

$20 – Adults

$15 – Concession, Students, Under 25s* (with ID), SGCNZ members

$10 – Children (under 12)*

Children under 5 are free.

* as we’re a licensed venue, those under 18 must be accompanied by at least one of their parents to attend the show.

Booking fees apply.

Eventbrite ticket sales end at 4.30pm on Friday 26th of February. Door Sales will be available at the event, from 4pm. 

TIMELINE

4.00PM Doors open

4:30PM Live music (pre-show entertainment)

5PM Show begins (Act I)

5:45PM Interval (30 mins)

6.15PM Show resumes (Act II)

7PM Show ends

ABOUT S.G.C.N.Z:

Shakespeare Globe Centre New Zealand (SGCNZ) is celebrating its 30th year! Over 122,000 students have participated in its Festivals and 5000+ in their other programmes. On the website sgcnz.org.nz, find out about the various events and ways to be involved throughout the year.

SGCNZ is a not-for-profit life skills enhancing organisation through Shakespeare. Developing skills of young people, including collaboration, co-operation, compromise, and at the same time, leadership, self-presentation, self- confidence, self-esteem, time management, project management and performance evaluation are just some of the key skills SGCNZ enhances. SGCNZ relies on $800,000 each year in cash and in-kind to provide its opportunities and activities! Some 5750 participants benefit, and more than 220,000 fill theatres and halls annually to enjoy the performances by our young people from 5 years old to the very mature of all ethnicities and sectors.

This wonderfully lively event is a greatly valued – do join in the fun!

5/02/2021

SGCNZ Celebrating 30 Years! | Pearls of Wisdom Quote Competition

Pearls of wisdom from the Bard himself are the perfect thing to celebrate SGCNZ’s ‘pearler’ of an Anniversary year!

Each working day outside ShakesHQ we are decorating the pavement with chalked Shakespeare quotations and posting them to Facebook.

To reward our dedicated Facebook fans we have decided to run a competition with these Pearls of Wisdom. Each month, the first person to send in a complete list of the previous month’s pavement quotes, having guessed the correct character and/or text for each quote, will receive a prize pack consisting of a SGCNZ pen, quotation notepad and a set of four postcards!

For more information and to enter click here

22/01/2021

What if the City was a Theatre? | SGCNZ presents Will on Cue

Celebrating its 30th Anniversary, SGCNZ is delighted to be a part of WHAT IF THE CITY WAS A THEATRE? Encouraging audiences to rethink the limits of public space. This programme presents an invitation to take to the streets, and experience internationally acclaimed free arts performance in the places you least expect it.

If “All the world’s a stage”, Wellington certainly is! SGCNZ is proud to be presenting Alumni and groups who will introduce 10 edited plays and hand out cue-scripts to passers-by to brush up their Bardish skills!

16/10/2020

Young Shakespeare Company 2021 announced 

Congratulations to the 24 students who have been chosen for YSC 2021! You can view the full list here.

14/10/2020

PPWS 2020 Tickets now on sale! 

SGCNZ PPWS 2020 – The Comedy of Errors

Join students from Clifton Terrace Model School, Wellington Home Education Network, Samuel Marsden Collegiate School, Otari Primary School and Karori West Normal School as they present an action –packed version of The Comedy of Errors!

Aimed at young people from Years 1-8 and their teachers, this is a programme created to develop core skills as they embark on a journey of discovery through igniting and delighting their artistic creativity. Primarily Playing with Shakespeare is a vehicle for the students to experience the literary works of William Shakespeare through exploration of the text in a fun, imaginative and thematic way. It is also an opportunity for teachers of Year 1-8 students to explore their core curriculum through a new dramatic lens.

The 2020 performances take place at:

Samuel Marsden Collegiate School
Tue 3 November 2020
Featuring students from Clifton Terrace Model School, Wellington Home Education Network, Samuel Marsden Collegiate School, Otari Primary School and Karori West Normal School
Book Tickets through iTicket

Hutt Intermediate School
Tue 10 November 2020
Featuring students from Queen Margaret College, St Mark’s Church School, Kelburn Normal School, Ridgway School, Hutt Intermediate School and Kena Kena School
Book Tickets through iTicket

09/10/2020

NSSP Photos available

We had an incredible week down in Dunedin for NSSP. To get a glimpse of the action you can view (and buy) photos of the performances from the Memory of Light website.

21/09/2020

COVID NSSP Update

Following the Prime Minister’s announcement at 1pm today, Monday 21st September, we are thrilled to hear that not only can we proceed with NSSP as planned, but we can elevate the audience number to 100 per performance, excluding staff and cast.

Our capacity cannot go above 100, because almost a quarter of the participants are from Auckland, who must carry their Alert Level restrictions with them.

There will be social distancing in the auditorium and Aucklanders will not be allowed to fraternize with the audience unless the Auckland Alert Level drops before the performance date.

Extra tickets will be made available very soon through iTicket.

08/09/2020

Job Opportunity – Assistant to the CEO

Owing to visa and travel alterations due to COVID-19, SGCNZ is again looking for an arts administrator with considerable experience to be Assistant to the CEO. A keen interest in theatre, delight in working with young people, and a wide range of administrative and personal competencies are vital!

Job Brief- Assistant to the CEO

Application Form- Assistant to the CEO

Region: Wellington

Closing date: 23 Sep 2020

20/08/2020

National Festival now available on Vimeo! 

The Vimeo from the SGCNZ e-National UOSWSF is now available to view!

14/08/2020

Page to Stage ~ workshop for Primary and Intermediate teachers

When: Thursday, 3 September 2020
Where: Kelburn Normal School, 16 Kowhai Road, Kelburn, Wellington 6012
Time: 4:00 to 5:30 pm.

In this workshop, Rachel Henry-More will present a series of activities and techniques that teachers can use to help all students, with a focus on Year 5 – 8, perform Shakespeare. There will be a particular focus on voice work, connection to the text, chorus work, finding a relaxed performance and understanding the world of the play and playwright. This workshop will be especially relevant to teachers taking part in the SGCNZ Primarily Playing with Shakespeare production of The Comedy of Errors.

Click here for more details and information on how to reserve a place. 

14/08/2020

Student Performance Photography Award – Winners Announced!

We’ve had some incredible submissions from Student Photographers around the country who’ve been capturing scenes from the SGCNZ e-Regional University of Otago Sheilah Winn Shakespeare Festivals. SGCNZ’s long-time supporter and photographer Brian Scurfield, of Memory of Light Photography, has now announced the winners of the inaugural Student Performance Photography Award.

– 1^st Prize – Angharad Yearbury-Murphy, Tauraroa School

– 2^nd Prize – Ashlee Stevens, Taupo-nui-a-Tia College

Of Angharad’s work, Brian commented: “Photographing large groups of people on stage can be tricky but Angharad has managed this well. Her photos clearly show what action is taking place on the stage through use of composition, focusing, and depth-of-field and are of a consistent good standard throughout the gallery.”

All of the photographs submitted by students can be viewed, and prints purchased, at https://www.memoryoflight.co.nz/Galleries/SGCNZ/SGCNZ-Nationals-2020

05/08/2020

2020 NSSP List Announced!

We’re very excited to announce the full list of students who have been chosen from the 2020 SGCNZ e-Regional and e-National University of Otago Sheilah Winn Shakespeare Festivals, and a winner each from the Costume Design and Music Composition Competitions, to attend the SGCNZ National Shakespeare Schools Production week in Dunedin in September/October 2020.

Click here for the full list.

Congratulations to all 48 students!

03/08/2020

SGCNZ/Dawn Sanders Shakespeare Costume Design Competition – Winners Announced!

Following the announcement in mid-June of the shortlisted finalists in this year’s Costume Design Competition, costumier Tina de Bes has been hard at work bringing the designs to life. All four costumes have now been constructed and we are delighted to announce the final placings:

• 1^st Prize – Charlotte Elaine Campbell, Bayfield High School – Cleopatra, Antony and Cleopatra
• 2^nd Prize – Paige Kendon, Howick College – Juliet, Romeo and Juliet
• 3^rd Prize (equal) – Chine Ang, Samuel Marsden Collegiate School – Puck, A Midsummer Night’s Dream
• 3^rd Prize (equal) – Aimee Schnuringer, Diocesan School for Girls – Titania, A Midsummer Night’s Dream

Congratulations to all of the finalists!

Watch this space for photos of the winning costumes – available soon on https://www.memoryoflight.co.nz/Galleries/SGCNZ/

27/07/2020

SGCNZ COVID-19 e-National UOSWSF Scene Award Recipients!

What a fantastic weekend having the pleasure of seeing all of your ingenious, innovative and brave approaches to Shakespeare which were selected for the SGCNZ e-National UOSWSF – mostly rehearsed and some even filmed mid-COVID-19 lockdown levels!

Incredibly hard decisions were made by those of us in the same room in Wellington – Scene Assessors Ryan Hartigan (University of Otago) and Salesi Le’ota and SGCNZ CEO Dawn Sanders – plus Scene Assessor John Gardyne (Trinity College, London) who joined us via Zoom at 5am UK-time!

We’re super excited to announce the Scene Award recipients…

Click here to download the list

A huge congratulations again to everyone who confronted COVID by entering the Festival in spite of all the challenges presented.

Watch this space in about a week’s time for the SGCNZ NSSP List!

10/07/2020

SGCNZ UOSWSF National Festival scenes announced! 

Congratulations to all who entered this year’s SGCNZ COVID-19 e-Regional University of Otago Sheilah Winn Shakespeare Festivals! We were overwhelmed by your fantastic creativity and how you embraced the constraints of rehearsing and filming scenes over lockdown.

We are delighted to announce the groups from the 24 e-Regional Festivals who have been selected for the e-National Festival, which will be assessed on 25 & 26 July.

Click here to download the list

The films from each Regional Festival and the National Festival will be made available on Vimeo – watch this space for details on how to access them.

10/07/2020

SGCNZ COVID-19 Limerick Competition

Announcing the Winner of the SGCNZ COVID-19 Limerick Competition, designed to entertain during lockdown.

There was clearly not enough for John Smythe to review, as he found time to write not only the 1^st prize winning Sonnets, but the Limerick as well. Congrats on your ‘trifecta’, John Smythe!

For most of your Will-written Kings
A death sentence waits in the wings
But no matter how gory
At the end of your story
Your Globe cast still dances and sings!

Thank you to all for your entries in this and our Sonnet Competitions.

02/07/2020

SGCNZ/Ida Glaskin Shakespeare Essay Competition with English at Otago – Winners Announced!

Huge congratulations and sincere thanks to everyone who entered the Competitions this year, under these extraordinary circumstances. It’s been inspiring to see how much work has been completed during lockdown and outside of the usual school routines.

We’re delighted to announce the winners of the SGCNZ/Ida Glaskin Shakespeare Essay Competition with English at Otago:

Option 1 or 2: Essay

• 1^st Prize: Lauren Healey, St Margaret’s College
• 2^nd Prize: E Wen Wong, Burnside High School
• 3^rd Prize: Vera Wang, St Cuthbert’s College

 Option 3: Creative

•  1^st Prize: Hannah Harman, Paraparaumu College
• 2^nd Prize: Lila Maffitt, Kristin School

The Judges were Liz Lammers and Shef Rogers, University of Otago

24/06/2020

SGCNZ/ Morrison Music Trust Shakespeare Music Composition Competition – Winners Announced!

We are delighted to announce the winners for this year’s SGCNZ/ Morrison Music Trust Shakespeare Music Composition. In response to the nature of the entries more recently, the Judges have recommended, and we have agreed, to divide the categories differently to previous years. From this year on, the categories are: Instrumental Composition and Vocal Composition.

The winners of the 2020 competition are:

Vocal Composition

• 1^st Prize: Caitlyn Smith, Millie-Rose Pumphrey & Theo Parker, Garin College – Strangers
• 2^nd Prize: Elvis Nicolls, Hagley College – Friar Friar
• 3^rd Prize: Peyton Morete, K?piti College – Here With Me

Instrumental Composition

• 1^st Prize: Grace Mora, St Cuthbert’s College – Which we call a rose
• 2^nd Prize: Nicholas Harman, Paraparaumu College – Prosperous Plot
• 3^rd Prize Equal: Lauren Doherty, Marlborough Girls’ College – Romeo and Juliet
• 3^rd Prize Equal: Clara Satherley, K?piti College – Mishandled

 Supreme Winner: Grace Mora, St Cuthbert’s College – Which we call a rose

The Judges were Michael Vinten and Garth Wilshire.

15/06/2020

SGCNZ/Adam Foundation Shakespeare Competitions: Poster Design, Static Image & Video Title Card – Winners Announced!

We are delighted to announce the winners for this year’s SGCNZ/Adam Foundation Shakespeare Competitions are as follows:

SGCNZ/Adam Foundation Shakespeare Poster Competition

• 1st Prize  –  Geneva Ryan, St Cuthberts College – Romeo and Juliet
• 2nd Prize  –  Amelia Barrett, St Cuthberts College – Macbeth
• 3rd Prize  –  Unnamalai Alagusundaram, Samuel Marsden Collegiate School – The Merchant of Venice

SGCNZ/Adam Foundation Shakespeare Static Image Competition

• 1st Prize  –  Nadi Figur-Ambler, Paraparaumu College – Macbeth
• 2nd Prize  –  Connie Wing, St Cuthbert’s College – Macbeth
• 3rd Prize  –  Renee (Yi Ran) Zhang, St Cuthbert’s College – Macbeth
• Commended  –  Tess Roberts, St Margaret’s College – Julius Caesar

SGCNZ/Adam Foundation Shakespeare Video Title Card Competition

• 1st Prize  –  Renee (Yi Ran) Zhang, St Cuthbert’s College
• 2nd Prize  –  Chine Ang, Samuel Marsden Collegiate School

The Judges were Craig Christensen, Emilie Hope, Dawn Sanders ONZM, QSM, Anastasia
Matteini-Roberts and Amy Clewes

11/06/2020

SGCNZ/Dawn Sanders Shakespeare Costume Design Competition – Finalists Announced

We are delighted to announce the four finalists for this year’s costume design competition, whose designs will be realised by costumier Tina de Bes, after which final placings will be awarded in late July.

The finalists are (in alphabetical order of surname):

• Chine Ang, Samuel Marsden Collegiate School – Puck, A Midsummer Night’s Dream
• Charlotte Elaine Campbell, Bayfield High School – Cleopatra, Antony and Cleopatra
• Paige Kendon, Howick College – Juliet, Romeo and Juliet
• Aimee Schnuringer, Diocesan School for Girls – Titania, A Midsummer Night’s Dream

The Judges also awarded three commendations in recognition of the high standard of these entries:

Highly Commended

• River Charteris-Wright, Bayfield High School – Helena, All’s Well That Ends Well
• Poppy Sam, Rangi Ruru Girls’ School – Dogberry, Much Ado About Nothing

Commended

• Hiro Han, St Cuthbert’s College – Lady Macbeth, Macbeth

The Judges were Nicole Barker (Sponsor), Tina de Bes (Costumier), Dawn Sanders ONZM, QSM (CEO, SGCNZ) and Amy Clewes (Assistant to the CEO, SGCNZ)

02/06/2020

Shakespeare Ora Aotearoa – deadline extended to 12 June!

Shakespeare Ora Aotearoa is a one-off event, with support of the Ministry of Youth Development, for young people between 15 and 24 years old.

During the course of a residential weekend, 30 participants will create a 5-10 minute play, using Shakespearean characters as inspiration to explore contemporary mental health, social or environmental issues.

The event will begin at 10am on Saturday 18 July and conclude after a showing at 5pm on Sunday 19 July. The costs of accommodation, food and all sessions will be covered by SGCNZ.

For more information and to apply, please see our Events page.

22/05/2020

Reminder for SGCNZ UOSWSF and Competition Deadlines!

Friday 12 June (or earlier) = Film submission deadline (so that GlassGecko does not get swamped with them on the closing date of 5pm on Monday 15 June)

Tuesday 2 June = Final Registration on the University of Otago Website

Tuesday 2 June  = Allied Competition entry deadline 

For more important information regarding filming and UOSWSF please see our UOSWSF page.

For more information regarding our competitions (including where to post them!) please see our Competitions page. 

19/05/2020

Here are the winning entries of SGCNZ’s Second Locked-down Competition- Shakes Quotes Sonnet! Congratulations to all who took part! 

Want to enter your own poem into our next Locked-down Poetry Competition? Keep scrolling down to find out more about Round 3: Shake Up A Limerick! Entries for this third round are open until Friday 22 May!

12/05/2020

Change to SGCNZ UOSWSF and Competition Deadlines! 

Friday 12 June (or earlier) = Film submission deadline (so that GlassGecko does not get swamped with them on the closing date of 5pm on Monday 15 June)

Tuesday 2 June = Final Registration on the University of Otago Website

Tuesday 2 June  = Allied Competition entry deadline 

For more important information regarding filming and UOSWSF please see our UOSWSF page.

For more information regarding our competitions (including where to post them!) please see our Competitions page. 

05/05/2020

SHAKE OUT A LIMERICK!

SGCNZ’s Next Locked-down Competition

Write a Limerick as Shakespeare would surely have written had he thought of them first!!

An example by Dawn Sanders herself:

There once was a man called Makkers

Who truly detested hackers

Maybe vegetarian?        

Yes authoritarian

But sadly ran out of backers

Criteria:

• Limerick form
• Sent in low resolution – disqualified if over 500 kb
• No fancy images – create them with your words!

E-mail it to: sgcnz@sgcnz.org.nz

In the Subject line write Shake Out a Limerick and Category No 4 and Age letter

In the body of the e-mail, at the top write your:

Name:

E-mail:

Mobile:

Postal address with post code:

State which Age Range:          

a)  Under 12 years

b)  12 – 24 years

c)  Over 24 years

Your Limerick with Title

A statement giving SGCNZ permission to publish your Limerick widely if you are a winner.

~~~

Due by 5pm Friday 22 May 2020

Prizes will be sent to the winners!

For more information, contact SGCNZ CEO, Dawn Sanders: dawn@sgcnz.org.nz

M: 027 283 6016

23/04/2020

Here are the winning entries of SGCNZ’s First Locked-down Competition- Shake Up a Sonnet! Congratulations to all!

Want to enter your own poem into our Locked-down Sonnet Competition? Keep scrolling down to find out more about Round 2: Shakes Quotes Sonnet! Entries for this second round are open until Friday 1 May!

SHAKESPEARE GLOBE CENTRE NEW ZEALAND’S UNIVERSITY OF OTAGO SHEILAH WINN SHAKESPEARE FESTIVALS GO FILMIC

17/03/2020

We now have specifications and instructions for how to film your entries into the 2020 Regional UOSWSF. Please find more details here.

16/03/2020

Conscious of the natural nervousness of schools congregating, an alternative solution has been devised by Shakespeare Globe Centre NZ, in association with its principal videographer, to ensure its SGCNZ Regional University of Otago Sheilah Winn Shakespeare Festivals continue and that all the work of the students and teachers will not be wasted.

SGCNZ’s 24 Regional Festivals, scheduled throughout the country from 25 March to 8 April 2020, will take place by schools supplying their scenes on film this year.

The assessing will take place by the Assessors appointed for each region on the day scheduled for the Festival, and a 5 minute and 15 minute scene still selected for the National Festival.

It is uncertain at this stage as to whether or not the National Festival will take place physically or by film as well.

The selection of a Direct-Entry student for SGCNZ’s National Shakespeare Schools Production will also be made as previously.

Guidelines for filming are currently being produced and will be posted on SGCNZ’s and the University of Otago’s websites within the next 24 hours..

Registrations must still be made via the University’s SGCNZ Festival website: shakespeare.otago.ac.nz

For further information, please contact:

Dawn Sanders ONZM, QSM

SGCNZ CEO

M: 027 283 6016

E: dawn@sgcnz.org.nz

Congratulations to our SGCNZ CEO Dawn Sanders, who is a recipient of a Kiwibank Local Hero Medal 2019

SGCNZ’s patron, Raymond Boyce MBE, Hon. DLitt, Arts Icon

20 May 1928 – 1 August 2019

Farewell dearest Raymond – with a million thanks for all you have given so generously to so many individuals and the wider arts community in New Zealand and internationally. Your impact and legacy will endure forever. With love and huge respect, xDawnx

Glass Gecko Films filmed the Raymond Boyce Tribute at the Hannah Playhouse on 10 August: available for download here 

Students selected for SGCNZ YSC 2020

Students selected SGCNZ NSSP 2019

Results for the SGCNZ National UOSWSF

Results for the SGCNZ Competitions

SGCNZ Shakespeare-On-Demand Video Subscription Service

Glass Gecko Films is providing a new service: SGCNZ Shakespeare-On-Demand (SOD) Video Subscription Service. An excellent resource for schools participating in SGCNZ events or as exemplars and aids for Drama and English Departments. Go to Glass Gecko’s website for more information.

A fantastic evening with talented women at the NEXT Magazine Woman of the Year 2018

SGCNZ CEO Dawn Sanders at the NEXT Magazine Woman of the Year Awards in Auckland with her partner Graeme Sanders

SGCNZ is now on Instagram! Hooray!

We aim to focus on Shakespeare (obviously), theatre, New Zealand, and the people within those communities, especially our alumni of SGCNZ. Please follow us and help us spread the word on the birth of our new social media platform! Our handle is @sgcnz. We are very excited and hope to see all of your smiling faces.

Congratulations to our CEO, Dawn Sanders, who has been selected as a finalist in the Elizabeth Arden and NEXT Woman of the Year awards

Dawn is one of five exceptional women nominated in the Arts and Culture category. The other categories are Business and Innovation, Community, Education, Health & Science and Sport. Dawn said “It’s a great thrill to have SGCNZ profiled so prominently and a wonderful reflection of all the people who participate in our activities.”

There will be an awards ceremony in Auckland on the 11th of October, where the winners of each category and the supreme winner are announced. For more information, see the NEXT Magazine article.