Secondary School students in Central Queensland are being encouraged to tread the boards in a new drama competition to be held in September, The Bard Awards 2020.
An initiative of Rockhampton Regional Council, The Bard Awards is an opportunity for students to rehearse and perform a dramatic work, and receive professional advice and assistance along the way.
While the term 'bard' is often used to refer to William Shakespeare, the competition will cover the wider definition, 'story teller / poet.'
Entries, by individuals, duos or groups, can be a performance of a traditional or contemporary monologue, duologue or group scene. Students will perform before adjudicator Tegan Devine at the Walter Reid cultural Centre in September. Prizes will be awarded and feedback will be provided.
Students will also be encouraged to attend a series of workshops in the lead up to the performances.
"This is a great opportunity for students to further develop their dramatic skills," Rockhampton Regional Council Community Services Spokesperson Cr Drew Wickerson said.
"Rockhampton has produced some great performers over the years and I hope that The Bard Awards will help future generations develop their interest in the performing arts."
The Bard Awards will be adjudicated by Tegan Devine, Principal/Owner of Devine Drama and Dance. Tegan has a wealth of experience in theatre. She holds a Graduate Certificate in Creative Industries, Bachelor of Performing Arts, Advanced Diploma of Film, Theatre & TV Acting and she is a NIDA Young Actors Studio graduate and WARD Acting Studio graduate. She has also trained and completed short courses with Zen Zen Zo, TAFTA, La Boite Theatre Company and Sydney Dance Company.
"I am very excited to be part of this project," Tegan said.
"The fact that it is a competition as well as a learning opportunity will be of immense benefit to local drama students."
Open to: Students in years 7 to 12
Entry: Free
Entry deadline: Friday 14 August
Performance: Walter Reid Cultural Centre, either Friday 4 or Saturday 5 September.
Entries are now open
