As William Shakespeare said, “We are such stuff as dreams are made on.”
15-year olds, Emma Duce and Olivia Watkins from Stuartholme School in Toowong have recently been a part of The Tempest production at the Brisbane Powerhouse.
The Tempest is said to be the last play written entirely by William Shakespeare and follows the journey of Prospero, Duke of Milan who plots to restore his daughter to her rightful place in the royal family using illusion and skillful manipulation.
“It was such an amazing experience to be a part of such a high calibre performance,” Emma said.
The performance, adapted by the Shake & Stir Theatre Company, was the first official production the girls have been involved in.
“It was so professional; we were treated like working actors instead of students,” Olivia said.
Co-Artistic Director for Shake & Stir Theatre Company, Ross Balbuziente, said both Emma and Olivia have promising careers ahead of them.
“They were awesome to work with and are going to make our industry a richer place in the not-so-distant future,” Ross said
“We were blown away by their professionalism in the rehearsal room and on the stage.”
The youth-focused contemporary theatre company aims to motivate, educate & relate to youth through theatre and live arts.
The cast were all hand-selected from the 2013 QLD Youth Shakespeare Festival Competition which saw over 5,500 entries from across the state.
“The top 30 students were invited to be a part of The Tempest at the Brisbane Powerhouse,” Ross said.
“The competition uncovered a storm of fresh talent and we as a company were so proud to play our part in allowing the students to grow as young actors.”
“Directing The Tempest was an absolute pleasure.”
Former Drama Teacher at Stuartholme School and now Education Projects Officer for the Sydney Theatre Company, Hannah Brown, said this is definitely one of her proudest moments as a Drama teacher.
“Performing The Tempest on stage with company members of Shake and Stir is an amazing accomplishment for Emma and Olivia,” Hannah said.
“It is an absolute credit to their enthusiasm, attention to detail and creativity as Drama students.”
“Well done girls! You’ll both go far.”
Emma advises other students wanting to be involved in live arts, to be passionate and learn as much as you can about all areas of theatre.
“Get involved, go to shows, attend workshops; do all you can to be the best you can be,” Olivia said.
The talented pair plan to pursue their dramatic aspirations further upon leaving high school.
