A group of students from Te Puke Primary School recently won the prestigious Showquest Choice Award at a national performing arts competition, bringing a wave of excitement to their school and community. The victory is a testament to their creativity, hard work, and the school’s commitment to the arts.
A National Win for Te Puke Primary
After winning the junior section at the regional Showquest final in Tauranga, the students advanced to the national finals, where their performance was judged via video against schools from across the country. The results were announced during a streamed awards ceremony, which students, teachers, and parents gathered at the school to watch. When it was announced that Te Puke Primary had won the Showquest Choice Award, there was a moment of confusion before a huge cheer erupted.
Teacher Millie Rowe, who oversaw the performance with fellow teacher Nicole Mills, said the team was “over the moon.” The award, which goes to a performance that particularly impresses the judges with its joy, message, and watchability, was a perfect fit for the students’ production. Rowe noted that the win has given the school a huge boost and reinforced their belief in the importance of performing arts. “We are just so proud of all of the time and effort that they put in,” she said.
A Message of Imagination
The students’ performance centered on a powerful message: what would happen if technology and devices were suddenly gone? Their creative answer was that children’s imaginations would be unleashed. The eight-minute show, performed at Tauranga’s Baycourt Theatre, was a feast for the eyes, incorporating a ukulele band, circus-style work, and sword choreography.
The message resonated deeply with the judges. Judge Leona Revell praised the “creative and playful performance with lovely highlights.” She specifically mentioned the “sweet, heartwarming moment” of the ukulele band and the way individual students’ strengths shone through. “Your message about the value of imagination, the power of play, and the importance of stepping away from our devices really resonated. It’s such a timely and important reminder for all of us,” Revell said. Another judge, Stormy Kay, called it a “joyful, high-energy adventure” and a “strong reminder to unplug and reconnect, especially to the parents.”
Looking Ahead
The national finals also offered an opportunity for the Te Puke team to see other performances, including some phenomenal intermediate school shows. Rowe said this provided them with “food for thought” for next year’s competition. The experience of performing on a large stage with professional lights and sound at Baycourt Theatre was invaluable for the young students.
For a small school in Te Puke to win a national award against some of the best performances in the country is a monumental achievement. It underscores the incredible talent, creativity, and dedication of the students and their teachers, proving that even a small town can make a big impact on the national stage. The victory has sparked joy and a renewed passion for the arts throughout the school community.
