Kids who act up for charity

Drama students Luke Tuhairwe, 7, Harrison Daniels-Roberts, 7, Ethan Wolland, 6, Izzy Erdbeer, 5, and Joseph Carter, 6, prepare for this weekend's showcase.

It's theatre with a cause - this weekend local drama students will show off their talents in a bid to raise money for charity.

Drama Kids Rotorua will hold its Charity Showcase at the Elim Church theatre tomorrow, raising money for local non-profit organisation Early Buds, which supports parents of premature babies.

The showcase will feature performances from 18 students aged 4 to 14.

Drama teacher Jennifer Wicks said it was a fantastic opportunity for locals to support young performers, the arts and help a good cause.

"It shows that drama is still relevant, it's useful and can help others and well as helping the students express themselves."

Mrs Wicks said it was also a chance for students to build their confidence by performing in front of an audience.

Students will perform a mixture of set pieces from films like Aquamarine and The Secret Garden.

Some of the students will also perform their own plays, drawing inspiration from the films.

"It not only shows off their acting talents, but their devising and directing talents as well."

This is the first time Drama Kids has hosted such a showcase and Mrs Wicks said she hoped it would be a hit.

"We just want as many people come along and support us.

"I'm not sure how many people will come or how much money we will raise, but everything helps.

"Early Buds is a really lovely cause and it would be nice to see the community get behind it by coming along."

Mrs Wicks encouraged parents of children who were interested in taking up drama to take them to the showcase.

Tickets are $5 and are available at the door.

Details

What: Drama Kids Rotorua Charity Showcase.
Where: Elim Church, Rotorua.
When: Tomorrow, from 3pm.
Cost:Tickets $5 at the door, children under 10 free.