We are Kenough!

Yesterday our Drama Department took centre stage at King's High School for the Otago Region SGCNZ Victoria University of Wellington Regional Festival, winning the 15 Minute Scene category and direct entry to Nationals in Wellington.

Nine talented drama rangatahi from Years 10-13 performed Act II, Scene I from The Taming of the Shrew, reimagined in the dazzling, pink-soaked world of Greta Gerwig’s Barbie film. The scene brought an unforgettable twist to one of Shakespeare’s classic comedies which was a huge hit with the audiences both during the day festival and also the showcase in the evening. My vision for an epic sea of pink and playful energy has been months and months in the making - rehearsals, style boards, costumes, set pieces, props... it's all been a huge amount of mahi behind the scenes to pull it all together for this ultimate regional performance.

With a vision full of fun and flair, the cast transported audiences to a Barbie Baptista's Mojo Dojo Casa House version of Padua, where the fiery Kate, played in the style of Weird Barbie, met her match in Arrogant Ken-inspired Petruchio (think Ryan Gosling in a fur coat). Bianca, ever the picture of perfection, embodied Stereotypical Barbie, while the authoritative Baptista took on the role of Daddy Mattel, overseeing the mayhem with executive flair. The rest of the ensemble? A fantastic array of Kens, each bringing their own brand of charm, bravado, and plastic fantastic energy to the stage.

From the moment the scene opened, the audience was swept into a whirlwind of pastel power struggles, hilarious misunderstandings, and over-the-top theatrics. The performance was a true spectacle, brimming with dynamic movement, comedic timing, and, of course, plenty of pink! Our creative reinterpretation not only delighted Shakespeare enthusiasts but also brought new energy and accessibility to the Bard’s work, proving that the classics can be both timeless and timely.

A massive congratulations to our talented performers for crafting such a unique and entertaining production, directed by myself and Mr Morrison. Whether Shakespeare himself would have ever imagined his play in a Barbie universe is up for debate, but one thing is certain—our drama students made theatre magic happen!

Stay tuned to see if this fabulous cast has the same impact at the National Festival in Wellington at St James Theatre on King's Birthday Weekend in early June. The St James is home to the Royal New Zealand Ballet and the jewel in the crown of Wellington’s flourishing theatre scene. Until then, we’ll be dreaming in pink and Shakespearean verse. Huzzah!

Otago Region SGCNZ Victoria University of Wellington Regional Festival 2025 -- Showcase Awards

Winner: One 15 Minute Scene for the SGCNZ National SF (NSF)

• John McGlashan College - The Taming of the Shrew

“The I Am Kenough Award for Expressive Thirstiness” Award

• Harper Milne - John McGlashan College - Taming of the Shrew

Cast & Crew:

Directed by - Kimberley Fridd & Andrew Morrison

Kate - Glenn Ericsson

Petruchio - Harper Milne

Bianca - Reid Penwarden

Baptista - Timothy Stevens

Gremio - Ben Eckhoff

Hortensio - Andrew Grounds

Tranio - Jonny Leitch

Servant - Issac Morrison

Servant - Peter Choi