Irrawang High School performers crowned winners of inaugural Port Stephens Battle of the Arts
Battle of the Arts, which took place during Youth Week, gave Port Stephens young people the stage to showcase their creative talents and perform to win a major prize of $500.
Eighteen students from 7 local schools participated in Battle of the Arts on Friday 12 April, showcasing a range of engaging performances across music, dance, acting, poetry and story-telling, to 4 judges and a crowd of 250 spectators, made up of family, friends, teachers, and fellow students.
The winners were as follows:
Isla, Hunter School of Performing Arts – Dance performance
The idea for Battle of the Arts was born from Council’s 2020 – 2025 Youth Strategy, where Council expressed its intention to ‘plan and deliver events offering young local artists and musicians the chance to share their talent’.
Student involvement was also encouraged in the lead up to the event, with 1 student from Tomaree High School mentored by Council’s Vibrant Places Team on a fortnightly basis, while the student provided valuable insights and perspectives around how the event should be promoted and run. Other students from Hunter River High and St Phillips also assisted with sound and lighting during rehearsals and on the day of the event.
- Irrawang High School
- Hunter River High
- Catherine McCauley
- Tomaree High School
- St Phillips Christian College
- Hunter School of Performing Arts
Council also wishes to thank Salamander Bay Rotary for providing a BBQ for everyone to enjoy, as well as Jupiter Youth Counselling Services who provided audience activities in between performances.
Battle of the Arts was possible thanks to funding from the NSW Government in celebration of NSW Youth Week.