Students shine as runners-up in the SGCNZ VUoW Otago Regional Shakespeare Festival 2025

By Gena Bagley | Posted: Thursday April 3, 2025

Congratulations to our talented actors! Carlin Summerfield, Jamie Funnell, Jacob Holtshousen, Callum Thompson, Archie Rhodes and Louie Moffatt, and their student director, Arya Davison, on being runners-up in the 5 minute scene section of this year’s prestigious Otago Regional Shakespeare Festival.

The boys placed second out of 21 performances, which is an incredible feat considering OBHS hasn’t performed in the competition for some time and because they were the youngest ensemble there.

Their outstanding performance showcased a deep appreciation of the Bard’s work, their understanding of the bawdy nature of the script and their respect for each other. Competing against strong contenders, they brought Shakespeare’s words to life with skill, humour and creativity.  To say we are proud is an understatement.

Further acknowledgement must go to Carlin Summerfield, who received one of the Judges’ discretionary special awards: The Michael J Fox Award for Valiant Comedic Thrusting.

Thank you to Erica Ward from Trinity Catholic College for her organisation of the day, thank you to our parent supporters, and congratulations to all the other schools who performed.  It was a highly supportive and truly inspiring day to be involved in, and we are already excited for next year’s event.

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