A surge of interest in the performing arts has over 250 young people performing at
Hāwera Repertory's Barbara Leydon Junior Drama Festival this week.
The festival gives school-age actors the opportunity to explore the theatrical
world with on-stage lighting, costuming, make-up and a live audience.
Festival co-ordinator Clive Cullen says there are 27 plays to be performed over four
nights, Monday to Thursday.
"This is probably the biggest year ever. I think the recent Hawera Repertory productions of Annie and The Lion and The Witch and the Wardrobe have helped these young people's interest to grow," he says.
"It's fantastic because we're watching the next generation of Hāwera Repertory start
out on stage."