The classroom transformed into a Broadway-style rehearsal space for a group of Auckland students this week, offering a rare glimpse into the professional world of musical theatre. Aspiring dancers and performers at Takapuna Grammar School on the North Shore were treated to a high-energy workshop with the cast of the global hit musical, & Juliet, which opens in Auckland next month.
Led by the show’s choreographer, Destiny Anderson, alongside members of the ensemble, the students had just 45 minutes to learn intricate choreography from the production's grand finale. The workshop was a unique bridge between the classroom and the professional stage, providing invaluable experience for students dreaming of a career in the performing arts.
The energy in the room was palpable as the young performers immersed themselves in the fast-paced, professional environment. One student said the experience was a lesson in performance as much as it was in dance. “They just have such a good vibe and I learnt that just having fun and like even if you mess up, it doesn't matter, because you're just having fun with all the people around you,” she said.
A new chapter for Juliet
& Juliet has been a sensation on London's West End and Broadway, lauded for its witty script and modern pop-anthem score. The musical reimagines Shakespeare’s iconic tragedy, asking what might have happened if Juliet Capulet had chosen life instead of death at the end of Romeo and Juliet. The score is a catalogue of hits from legendary songwriter Max Martin, including classics made famous by Britney Spears, The Backstreet Boys, and Katy Perry.
The production arriving in New Zealand is significant for the local arts scene, featuring a full Kiwi cast and crew. After its season at Auckland's Civic Theatre from 9 April, the show will travel to Wellington and Christchurch, showcasing New Zealand talent in a globally recognised production. This provides a vital platform for local performers and crew, creating jobs and highlighting the strength of the country's creative sector.
For the Takapuna Grammar students, many of whom are involved in school productions like the upcoming Legally Blonde, the workshop was more than just a dance class. It was a tangible connection to an industry that can often feel distant. “It was really cool to do dances from a professional show taught by the actual cast,” one student shared. “I found that really fun and I liked the difficulty and how we learned it really fast. I assume that's how it is in the industry. So it's really good to get a feel of that definitely.”
Inspiring the next generation
The experience was particularly resonant as one of the instructors was a former student of the school. Cast member Josh Morris, who graduated seven years ago, returned to his old dance studio to guide the current generation. “I haven't been here in like seven years… it’s really cool to see… and inspire the next generation,” Morris said. His presence served as a powerful reminder that a career on the world stage is an attainable goal for young Kiwis.
The session also provided a platform to challenge stereotypes, particularly around boys in dance. One male student encouraged his peers to embrace their passion without fear of judgment. “Even if you stick out, that's a good thing… don’t think about, oh, it's embarrassing… no one cares… it's just lots of fun,” he said. Such initiatives are crucial in fostering inclusive environments in school arts programs, like those discussed in our guide to schools in Papatoetoe and Ōtara.
They were really focused and I could see the inspiration in the room. For them to know that looking at local professionals that they can make it as well…
Choreographer Destiny Anderson said the students' enthusiasm and skill exceeded the cast's expectations. “The fact that the kids were so engaged from the get-go was pretty awesome,” she said. “We had a plan for what we were going to teach them, we ended up teaching way more.”
The value of arts education
Events like this workshop underscore the profound impact of arts education and exposure to professional creative industries. Providing students with direct access to mentors and role models who have built successful careers in the arts is incredibly motivating. It demonstrates a clear pathway from the school auditorium to the professional stage, a journey often seen at large-scale student events like the ASB Polyfest, which provides another significant platform for young Auckland performers.
The opportunity comes as Auckland's cultural sector continues to thrive, even as the city's transport infrastructure prepares for significant upheaval with the upcoming rail network closures for City Rail Link testing. The investment in an all-New Zealand cast for a major international tour like & Juliet speaks to the confidence producers have in the nation's talent pool, which is nurtured in dance and drama departments in schools across the country.
For some students, the afternoon was a pivotal moment, solidifying their career aspirations. One performer confirmed it was her dream to enter the industry. “I’m planning on studying in university and going into the industry… getting this experience is really valuable to planning out my future,” she said. This direct line from school-level passion to professional ambition is what proponents of arts funding hope to foster. According to the Ministry for Culture and Heritage, a vibrant performing arts sector contributes to national identity, wellbeing, and economic growth.
As the cast of & Juliet prepares for their opening night, the students of Takapuna Grammar will be in the audience and also preparing for their own show, armed with new skills and a powerful dose of inspiration. The workshop was a clear demonstration that for New Zealand's next generation of performers, the future is bright.
