Talented performers shine bright at award ceremony
LONEHILL – Two learners from a prestigious school of performing arts were acknowledged for their hard work and commitment.
Stageworx School of Performing Arts celebrated the talents of many learners in a recent award ceremony.
Two learners were the highlight of the evening after their first performance in almost two years.
The two Stageworx learners and close friends who stood out on the night were 12-year-old Mia Nupen and 17-year-old Rachel Leah-Games for their performance with the principal of Stageworx, Gemma Marinus during the Stageworx full-time students’ showcase.
When the nationwide lockdown started on 27 March last year, classes were moved online and live performances were put on hold. Both Rachel and Mia performed the song Footprints in the Sand together with Marinus; their first live performance since September 2019.
Speaking on the performance, both girls described that moment as incredibly emotional. “Mia and I were very blessed to get the opportunity to perform on stage. We were very honoured to receive that trio chance alongside Gemma [Marinus]. The performance was about passing down the baton to new people coming through,” Rachel said.
Mia, who attends Montrose Primary School, was awarded the prestigious Lilian Cross trophy by principal Marinus and is the youngest recipient, a record previously held by Rachel when she was 16.
“Getting the award was kept as a surprise from me,” Mia said.
“It was honestly so amazing to receive the award. I’m just so grateful to be a part of Stageworx and know all the students and teachers there. I’m honoured that I was chosen out of all the students and that an award that means so much to our principal was given to me.”
Marinus commended both Rachel and Mia for their outstanding work in the time they have been at Stageworx. “She had a keen eye for the students that were showing exceptional qualities in the arts,” she said.
“As well as talent, the students selected are expected to have impeccable work ethic and work ethos and follow the Stageworx ethos of support for each other and inclusivity.
“In both 2019 and 2020, we have the award given to students younger than usual recipients. This goes hand in hand with their maturity. I look forward to seeing both their future journeys.”
Both Rachel and Mia have dreams of remaining in the performing arts and growing the industry further, with Rachel looking to go to university in the United Kingdom once she matriculates.
