Calling all students: Step out of your comfort zone and into the spotlight.
We are thrilled to invite expressions of interest for Showquest 2026!
As Aotearoa’s biggest performing arts competition, Showquest is a chance for our students to create, produce, and perform an original stage show that combines Art, Music, Dance, Drama, Culture, and Technology.
Why Showquest? While many of our students thrive on the sports field or in the classroom, Showquest offers a unique "third arena" to build character and skills. It is student-led (supported by the JMC Showquest Teacher Team), meaning the students drive the creative vision from concept to curtain call.
A “Fab” Opportunity for our rangatahi We know that for some boys, the idea of "performing arts" might seem outside their usual wheelhouse. But Showquest is far more than just dance and drama - it is a high-tech, high-energy competitive event that requires a diverse team to succeed. This is a fantastic opportunity for boys to:
Master the Tech: The show isn't just about what happens on stage. It needs lighting designers, video wall technicians, and sound engineers. It’s a chance to get hands-on with professional-grade equipment and digital storytelling.
Lead the Pack: Showquest requires strong leadership. From helping to direct peers to managing logistics, boys can step up as leaders in a fast-paced, real-world project environment.
Fuel the Rivalry: Let’s be honest - we love a bit of competition! Showquest features friendly but fierce inter-school rivalries. It’s a team sport of a different kind, where winning requires discipline, strategy, and teamwork.
Become Well-Rounded: Universities and future employers love to see versatility. Balancing academic and sporting commitments with a creative pursuit like Showquest demonstrates time management, adaptability, and the confidence to try something new. PLUS - it includes a Rep Award Badge for being a part of something special.
2026 Key Details
Regional Dates: Events run from May to June 2026 (our local date for the performance on the Regent Theatre stage is Friday May 15th!).
Format: An 8-10-minute original performance based on a theme
New for 2026: Spaces are strictly limited to 8 schools per event to ensure a higher quality experience, so we moved fast to secure our spot!
Interested? If you want to be part of the team—whether on stage, behind the scenes, or in the tech booth, we want to hear from you.
Check out the vibe here: https://www.rqp.co.nz/showquest
Sign up by early Term 1 to ensure you don’t miss out!
Keep an eye out on the school notices, or email Whaea Fridd for more info: kimberley@mcglashan.school.nz
The other opportunity for our students is the TOI Student Wearable Arts Competition:
TOI is run in collaboration with World of WearableArt (WOW), offering the next generation of textile artists and designers an exciting opportunity to experience the WOW world. "TOI" means art in te reo Māori, and our TOI platform challenges students to take art off the wall and put it on the human form.
Students create an imaginative wearable art garment that tells a story, either solo or in groups. They can be inspired by creative design briefs, or enter the Open section. Due to overwhelming growth & demand, in 2026 there will be a pre-selection process - with 25 garments selected for each Showquest/TOI event, based on photos/sketches submitted ahead of time.
On event day, selected garments attend a Showquest/TOI event, where they will have a professional photoshoot, rehearsal and exhibit their creations onstage during the evening Wearable Art showcase segment of Showquest.
There are regional awards and spot prizes, and top garments from each regional event are also shortlisted for national judging by our partners at World of WearableArt. WOW designers and other creatives are involved on event day as mentors.
Students involved:
Build confidence, resilience, and collaboration skills
Express creativity and personal storytelling through art
Develop skills and experience interpreting a brief and exploring a range of creative mediums
Connect with mentors and gain insight from the world of professional design
Experience the thrill of presenting work in front of a live audience
For more information, click here: https://www.rqp.co.nz/toi
Open Event Registration - Interested in enrolling?
Employment opportunities - click if you're interested in working at McGlashan.