Young Actors Join Forces to Knock Out NZ Fringe

Young Actors Join Forces to Knock Out NZ Fringe

Squawk

6pm 21st February, 5.30pm and 7pm 22nd February

Whitireia Theatre - Tickets $15/$10 Book: www.fringe.co.nz

Wellington Young Actors and Churton Park Young Actors have been collaborating to produce an original work called Squawk for the New Zealand Fringe Festival. Aged just 12-17, they are the youngest ever companies to produce a work in the 26 year history of the festival.

Both groups train in theatre at the Island Bay and Churton Park Community Centres respectively. Wellington Young Actors have previously performed William Shakespeare’s Twelfth Night at BATS Theatre and their original work To Sunder for which they were named 2015 New Zealand Fringe Festival's Best Newcomer and were nominated for Outstanding Ensemble. It is the first time Churton Park Young Actors will take part in the festival as well as the first opportunity the groups have had to work together.

Squawk is a coming of age fairytale with a modern twist. The Young Actors rip open the dark truth behind fairy tales and reveal how fragile the world of myths, legends and stories really is. Squawk explores the side of fairytales that is hidden away behind the beautiful ball gowns and castles. The students were interested in exploring the contrast between the ideal world presented to children and the real world which they have grown up to discover.

The Young Actors have been working on Squawk since December and that work has included a four day long devising retreat at Tapu Te Ranga Marae in Island Bay. The two groups are not only acting in Squawk but are also managing all production roles such as designing the set and costumes, marketing and fundraising. This provides them with the skills and knowledge to run a theatre company.

The youth companies have been trained by local actor/director, Deborah Eve Rea for over two years. Rea is a regular on the Wellington professional stage and has appeared on screen; including Shortland Street and indie feature film Jake.

“New Zealand’s industry is small. Being able to create and produce your own work is an absolute must-have skill to ensure any kiwi actor’s survival. The work barely ever comes to you so you must bring the work yourself. At 12-17 years old, these actors have a secure future, not only in being able to stage their own work but also in being able to find employment in design, fundraising, marketing and production. Hopefully one day they’ll also hire me.” - Deborah Eve Rea

ENDS

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