Dunstan High School (DHS) Year 10 drama pupils hit the road last week.

The group of 24 have been working on a version of Dr Seuss’s play The Grinch for most of term four, and travelled to East Otago and Waitaki to perform the Christmas play.

They were accompanied on their trip by head of drama Nick Meissel and arts coordinator Julie Ruffell. 

Nick said the tour was a three day road trip; it kicked off last Wednesday with the aim of bringing free theatre into remote primary schools throughout the regions.

“It is a lovely way for our students to give back at Christmas time and seeing our students connecting with the younger primary [school] kids is heartwarming.

“We performed in some schools that barely had double digit rolls and some that stretched closer to 100 students.“

Watch a short clip from the end of the play (one min 30 secs). VIDEO: Supplied 

The pupils performed in various different venues, some schools with beautiful stages, others in the classroom and some even outdoors. 

Nick said it was a testament to the class how they effortlessly transitioned from one space to another, and the response was hugely positive.

“Many of these schools don't get visits from travelling performing arts companies as they are too far out of the way, or schools simply cannot afford the costs.

“The kids at the schools were hugely interactive, asking lots of questions about the processes involved and sharing their thoughts with us about their favourite characters.” 

The Year 10 drama group took their play to Omakau School. PHOTO: Supplied 

The group performed at Omakau School, St Johns' School, Macraes Moonlight School, Palmerston School, Kakanui School, Five Forks School, Waitaki Valley School, Twizel Area School and Tarras School. 

The Grinch tells of the disgruntled Grinch and his hate for the festive season, including how he and his dog Max, try to steal all the town’s decorations and gifts from the residents of Who-ville. 

Dr Seuss’s 1957 book How The Grinch Stole Christmas has been made into a movie on three occasions. 

Remi Lahood-Robinson as The Grinch and his dog Max, played by Alikai Christie. PHOTO: Supplied 

The DHS drama pupils in the cast and crew were Lucy Anderson, Austin Armstrong, Adeline Ball, Alex Ballantine, Alikai Christie, Tom Dowling, Makayla Gare, Elsie Jack, Remi Lahood-Robinson, Taine Liddell, Wade McAtamney, Jay-T McFadyen, Grace Mcleod, Lexie McNaughton, Lily Nolan, Jasmine Panganiban, Grace Paterson, Chloe Patterson, Isabelle Smith, Jacqlynn Sutherland, Shelby Walker, Grace Weaver, Chase Weir and Jimi You. 

Read more: Light Up Central brings Christmas cheer

Have a story to share?

Contact [email protected]