12 July 2005

Manukau Secondary Schools' Performing Arts Awards Poised To Begin

Manukau City Council will begin its search for young talent in the Auckland region with the first heat of the 2005 Manukau Secondary Schools' Performing Arts Awards on 4 August. The event will culminate in the finals to be held at the TelstraClear Pacific Events Centre on Friday 1 September.

A future New Zealand Idol star could well be among the contestants who will be lining up against the region's finest talent to compete in the heats each Friday throughout August. This is a great opportunity for up and coming performers to showcase their talent as they compete in their category of choice to take out prize money to the value of $4,000.

Organiser Chantelle Whaiapu, says, "We all know there is a huge amount of untapped talent here in Manukau and throughout the Auckland region. This event gives our young a goal to work towards and the opportunity to showcase and hone their talents to a wide audience as they compete with the best from their peer group.

"Last year there were 80 entries; this year we hope to get more. Winners included students from James Cook High School, Kelston Girls High, Kelston Boys High School, Papatoetoe High School and St Cuthberts College."

The heats will run for 4 weeks each Friday in August from 10am - 2pm at the Otara Music Arts Centre.

The categories give plenty of scope for creativity and individuality with classical on 5th; contemporary individual on 12th; contemporary group on the 19th; and dance on the 26th. The finals will be held on Friday 1 September 5pm - 9pm, Genesis Theatre, TelstraClear Pacific Events Centre. Entry $2

For further information contact Chantelle Whaiapu on 275 0481 visit Council's website www.manukau.govt.nz

What: Heats of Manukau Secondary Schools' Performing Arts Awards Where: Otara Music Arts Centre Date: Friday 5, 12, 19, 26 August 2005 Time: 10am - 2pm

ENDS

© Scoop Media