The 2024 Performing Arts Awards, held on Thursday 17 October, were a vibrant celebration of the incredible talent and dedication of our students. Hosted by Director of Performing Arts Sarah Wilson, along with student Head of Performing Arts Georgia Burley and Deputy Arlo Keating, the event brought the school community together to recognise the outstanding achievements in the performing arts this year.
We were privileged to welcome Ange Westerby McKellar as our guest speaker. Ange, who recently choreographed the Wellington season of We Will Rock You, delivered an inspiring address, sharing her wealth of experience and passion for the arts. Her words left a lasting impression on the students, encouraging them to pursue their creative journeys with determination and confidence.
Arlo Keating, Ange Westerby McKellar and Georgia Burley.
A special moment of the evening was the acknowledgement of Altissime choir director Maaike Christie-Beekman, who is stepping down after 12 years of service to Marsden. Under Maaike’s guidance, Altissime has become a symbol of choral excellence, and her contributions to the school’s performing arts will be greatly missed. We also took the opportunity to recognise the Year 13 parents who have supported the performing arts programme throughout their children’s time at Marsden, as their children prepare to graduate.
The evening saw performances, reflecting the diversity of talent across the school. The kapa haka group opened with a powerful performance, followed by a vocal performance from the Altissime choir. Aubane (Year 12) delivered a violin solo, and Georgia, Issy, and Sage (Year 13) performed their piece from the Variety Show which was held earlier in the year.
Maaike Christie-Beekman and Altissime.
The night saw several outstanding achievements recognised with prestigious awards. Huge congratulations to the following students:
- Isabella Huang – The Harcourt McKenzie Cup for the Pursuit of a Career in the Stage and Screen Arts 2024
- Jeshna Madaan – The Junior Cultural Cup 2024
- Arlo Keating – The Old Girls' Cup for Cultural Involvement 2024
- Charlotte Cinque – The Orr-McFaull Cup for Excellence in Debating 2024
- Davida McKenzie and Georgia Burley – The Sophie Evans Cup for Performing Arts 2024
- Chloe Geidelberg – The Thurlby Cup 2024
- Gloria Tay – The Year 11 Speech Cup 2024
Additionally, we congratulate the following students who were awarded Honours Bars for 2024 in recognition of their exceptional achievements:
- Milliann Lim – New Zealand Secondary Schools' Orchestra
- Nata Sekicki – New Zealand Secondary Schools' Orchestra
- Aubane Farcy – New Zealand Secondary Schools' Orchestra
- Georgia May – Irish Dancing
- Georgia Burley – Musical Theatre
- Rose Peddie-Burch – World Choir Games
These students have demonstrated remarkable skill, dedication, and passion in their respective fields, and their recognition is well-deserved.
The Performing Arts Awards are a fitting tribute to the hard work, creativity and passion of our students, and is always a night to remember.
Click here for the full list of award winners.
Miss Sarah Wilson with cup winners.
