What's up in the Arts
By Sam Holborow - OBHS Arts Council | Posted: Wednesday July 30, 2025
It’s been a successful month for Otago Boys’ High School’s arts community, with students showcasing exceptional talent across a range of high-profile events.
From award-winning jazz and song festival triumphs to standout performances at RockQuest and the brand new Staff on Stage concert announced, OBHS has had a successful July month, proving itself a powerhouse of musical creativity, passion, and dedication. All Blues - 2025 Dunedin Youth Jazz Festival Recap The All Blues Jazz Big Band from Otago Girls’ and Boys’ High Schools earned a Gold Award at the 2025 Dunedin Youth Jazz Festival for their standout performance. Their energetic set featured music by Wayne Shorter, Madonna, and Steely Dan, and was a crowd favourite. Seven members including OBHS students Finn Marshall and Callan Power were selected from All Blues for the All-Star Big Band—the most of any group. The band was led by Dr. Martin and supported by Mr. Eugene Shields. Read the full article here: https://www.facebook.com/share/p/1747raDUtf/
Song Fest 2025
Two OBHS students, Alex Glover (Year 12) and Callum Thompson (Year 10), achieved great success at the recent Song Fest held at the Castle theater last month. Alex placed third in two contemporary categories, impressing audiences with performances of singing Ordinary and In the Stars. Callum, competing for the first time, won two first-place awards and a VHC for his classical and spiritual pieces. Both students did excellently and demonstrated great talent and powerful vocals. Read the full article here: https://hail.to/otago-boys-high-school/publication/uSm51TZ/article/XyHbuCG
Rockquest Otago Regional Finals
At the regional RockQuest final, 5 students Oliver Mackenzie, Rupene Skipper, Mikko Johnston, Dallas Pankhurst and Max Cutfield gave a fantastic performance cladded in tuxedos. Showcasing their talent with two original songs: "Waffelladden" an 80s-esque rock song, and "Before We Skip Town" a Rock and Roll Grease like song. Competing against other skilled bands, they impressed the audience with their musical creativity and stage presence. Congratulations to the boys on a memorable and successful performance! Read the full article here: https://www.facebook.com/OtagoBoysHighSchool/posts/pfbid0BMiKsmRPiXLWLrctwgGZ3nz4TR2f8eAiQHYJRsDVur2sAmTodBhVUjYcpZfaaB45l?rdid=nQzyCDgziETbNTAr#
Staff On Stage Announcement
After last year’s cancellation, the much-anticipated Staff on Stage returns on August 21st at the Maurice Joel Theatre. Tickets are just $5 at the door, with all proceeds supporting the OBHS Music Department and future Shand Development. The evening will feature a variety of performances from talented staff and students. Huge thanks to sponsors Whittaker’s Chocolate, CEG Accounting, and Naylor Love for their generous support. Don’t miss this chance to celebrate OBHS talent and contribute to a great cause!
Upcoming Events:
Week 4 - Jazz Band Blenheim Trip
Week 5 - Choir Cadenza Comp (Timaru Comp)
Week 6 - Staff On Stage Concert
Thanks for reading the July edition of What's Up In The Arts. We are proud of all our students and their achievements over the month.
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