PLC Armidale is celebrating a triumphant return from the 2025 Shakespeare Carnival State Finals, with two of their three competing teams crowned state champions over the weekend at Sydney’s Seymour Centre.
The all-girls’ college Dance and Physical Theatre teams dazzled judges with their powerful, creative interpretations of Shakespearean themes, securing the top titles in their categories at the prestigious state-wide event, presented by Sport For Jove.
The Dance duo, Molly Chard and Lucy Ward, captivated audiences with their hypnotic performance inspired by The Taming of the Shrew, while the Physical Theatre pairing of 2024 Dance State Champions. Year 9 students Poppy-Grace Newton and Olive McFarlane, delivered a dynamic and emotionally resonant piece based on Hamlet.
Both teams demonstrated exceptional skill, originality, and passion—qualities that have become hallmarks of PLC Armidale’s presence at the Carnival.
The PLC Armidale Drama Ensemble team also competed strongly with their striking interpretation of Julius Caesar, showcasing contemporary delivery of the original script, impressive physicality and stagecraft, including a stunning death scene.
Mrs Jo Wysel, Head of Creative and Performing Arts, praised the students for their artistry and highlighted the broader value of performance in education:
“Drama and performance not only develop creativity and expression, but also build deep academic and emotional intelligence,” she said.
“These disciplines support learning across all subjects by encouraging critical thinking, empathy, collaboration, and communication – all skills that are vital for success in every field.”
The Shakespeare Carnival, run by the Sport For Jove Theatre Company, is a state-wide initiative encouraging students to reimagine the world of Shakespeare through performance, movement, music and film. It challenges students to explore complex texts creatively while building confidence, teamwork and literacy.
This year’s success marks a back-to-back achievement for PLC Armidale, following two state wins in 2024 in addition to numerous other wins throughout the Carnival’s history.
“The continued excellence of our students is a testament to their dedication and the vibrant arts culture nurtured within the College,” College Principal Mrs Nicola Taylor said, reflecting on the school’s long-standing involvement in the Carnival.
We’ve proudly supported the Shakespeare Carnival since its inception in 2016, and it has been extraordinary to watch it grow into such a meaningful and enriching program for students across New South Wales,” she said.
“From little things, big things grow, and we thank Sport For Jove Theatre for their vision and commitment to the arts.”
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