DRAMA
SHAKESPEARE SUCCESS The Shakespeare Globe Centre New Zealand regional festivals were very different this year. Against all the odds the festivals still took place. Groups were required to film performances and submit them to be assessed by the judges. We are delighted to announce that Diocesan won both the five-minute and 15-minute categories. These scenes progressed to the final stage of the festival, the national finals.
Anisha de Silva, Hazel Francis and Phebe Mason performing Othello.
Phebe Mason, Mel Uren and Rosie Leishman were the winners of the five-minute scene for the second year in a row. Their presentation of a scene from Measure for Measure was also awarded Best use of Music. The girls took a feminist twist on the play and highlighted the injustice that Isabella feels within the play. Anisha de Silva, Hazel Francis and Phebe Mason won the coveted 15-minute scene section, beating stiff teacher-directed competition. Their version of Othello set in modern times highlighted the anguish and turmoil of Othello, played by Anisha de Silva. Anisha was rewarded with the Best Director Award 2020. At the SGCNZ National Festival in Wellington both groups were commended on the originality of their work. Othello, directed by Anisha de Silva, was awarded two awards: Outstanding Music/Song Award (adult- or student-directed) donated by Julie Nevett, Morrison Music Trust – Willow Song (Othello) Directed by Anisha de Silva and performed by Hazel Francis and Phebe Mason. Outstanding Presentation from a Tragedy Award donated by BartonRoss Ltd – Othello Directed by Anisha de Silva and performed by Anisha de Silva, Hazel Francis and Phebe Mason. The innovative interpretation of the struggle of Othello was singled out as the most outstanding presentation of a tragedy in the whole festival. 46
DIO TODAY
Phebe Mason, Mel Uren and Rosie Leish man during their prese ntation of Measure for Measure.
