Media Release

2 September 2009

Secondary students showcase stand out talent

Dance and musical talent was the winner at the 2009 Stand Up! Stand Out! Performing Arts Awards at TelstraClear Pacific Events Centre in Manukau last Friday.

Edwina Aiono from Marcellin College won the Contemporary Music Solo Vocal award, while Babylon Rhythm from Tamaki College won the Contemporary Music Bands award.

Secondary students from 12 schools in Manukau, Auckland and Franklin made it into the finals, competing in vocals, instrumental music and dance in front of 800 supporters, for the prize money of more than $7000.

Musician Cherie Mathieson, one of the three judges at the competition, was impressed to see the students so passionate about and hugely talented in music and dance.

“From the small hall at Otara Music Arts Centre, the performers really brought it on, to the big stage here at TelstraClear Pacific Events Centre. All of the performances have been amazing,” she said.

She also offered advice to the talented youngsters. “The number one thing is to keep going,” she said.

Students from Manukau’s Aorere College came away as winners and runners up in the Group Vocal category with ‘The Lost Boys’ and ‘4 Elements’. Moni Samson from Aorere College won in the solo dance category, while Rewa All Stars from Manurewa High School won the Group Dance prize.

Hadleigh Pouesi, from Sweet & Sour judged the dance section and said that he hadn’t seen talent like this anywhere else.

Stand Up! Stand Out! is an annual event organised by Manukau City Council and is open to secondary schools from across the Auckland region.

ENDS

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