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Memphis Ward, Helen Drysdale-Dunn, and Norman Tofilau from the Theatre stream of the Wintec/Te Pukenga Bachelor of Music and Performing Arts degree have a busy summer ahead, having landed roles in the international touring production of Shrek: The Musical.
They’re getting out of the swamp.
Three students from the Theatre stream of Wintec’s Bachelor of Music and Performing degree have a busy summer ahead, having landed roles in the international touring production of Shrek: The Musical.
Graduating students Helen Drysdale-Dunn and Memphis Ward and current second-year Iosia Tofilau will be part of the fully professional New Zealand cast to perform the musical in a number of Middle Eastern countries between January and March.
Drysdale-Dunn and Ward have been cast as ensemble members, donning multiple costumes for fun roles in the show, including the Wicked Witch, knights in the Dragon Tower, and the citizens of Duloc.
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Tofilau, meanwhile, has leapt into a leading role, playing Donkey, famously voiced by Eddie Murphy in the original movie.
They will join recent music graduate Jessica Ruck-Nu’u, who was a standout as the Dragon in the New Zealand touring cast of this production through 2022.
Alongside other members of the creative team, the students will work under music and performing arts tutor Nick Braae, who has been musical director for the show.
Ward said he “can’t wait to be surrounded by talented actors from across the country and having the chance to explore the world outside New Zealand”.
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Memphis Ward, Helen Drysdale-Dunn, and Norman Tofilau are names to remember, says Wintec music and performing arts team manager David Sidwell, who predicts big things for the trio.
“It is amazing to jump into touring straight out of study.”
Drysdale-Dunn said she was still coming to terms with being cast in Shrek.
“Being part of a professional show is something I have dreamed about. I have worked hard to achieve this goal, but it still feels surreal and I never expected to experience a tour of the Middle East.”
Music and performing arts team manager David Sidwell said thrilled for the success. “This is an incredible opportunity for our graduating and current students to make their mark. This will just be the beginning for all of them.
“Their success speaks volumes to the calibre of singing, dancing and acting training they are getting from our talented tutors in the degree programme. The world of professional musical theatre world is competitve, but our students are prepared and ready to foot it with the best.”
