For the majority of Term 1, we had been working towards this camp by learning about site-specific theatre and physical theatre alongside Red Leap Theatre tutor Katrina George. Katrina is a professional performer, director and acting tutor who was able to work with our students through the Creative in Schools scheme. 

Our students took what they learnt from Katrina and incorporated this into an original piece of physical theatre on site in Whaingaroa. They were tasked to create a five minute performance that was a hybrid of dance and drama and told a unique story connected to the area we were visiting. All students gained a whopping 9 credits for their mahi over the four day camp. 

Highlights of our trip included; a trip to the local museum, after dinner singalongs, Rannal catching a fish in the harbour, forging new friendships with classmates, cooking kai together, Bethany’s family visiting for her birthday and creating some incredible performances they can all be proud of. 

We are so grateful to the Creative in Schools funding, which meant this memorable camp was free for all students who went. We’d also like to thank Red Leap Theatre for partnering with us, all the adults who came along for the ride, and the community of Whaingaroa who were awesomely welcoming. 

DAN301 and DRA301 - we are so incredibly proud of you! We hope you had a wonderful time and that you’ve made memories that will last a lifetime.