THE HON ANDREW HASTIE MP
SHADOW MINISTER FOR INDUSTRY AND SOVEREIGN CAPABILITY
FEDERAL MEMBER FOR CANNING

MEDIA RELEASE

ENTRIES OPEN FOR THE 2026 CANNING SHAKESPEARE COMPETITION

28 July 2026

Federal Member for Canning Andrew Hastie MP is inviting local secondary students to take centre stage, with entries now open for the 2026 Canning Shakespeare Competition.

Now in its 11th year, the annual competition encourages students in Years 10 to 12 within the electorate of Canning to perform a Shakespearean monologue; building confidence, communication skills and a love of one of history's greatest writers.

Students are invited to submit a video performance of a Shakespeare monologue, with the top performers progressing to a live final at the Mandurah Performing Arts Centre on Saturday 29 August.

Competitors will take to the stage before a panel of experienced judges from the performing arts industry, with $1,000 on offer for the winner and $500 for the runner-up.

Mr Hastie said the competition had become a valued tradition in Canning, showcasing the remarkable talent of young people across the region.

“Learning and performing Shakespeare develops confidence, and encourages young people to discover the enduring power of Shakespeare’s works,” Mr Hastie said.

“Every year I’m inspired by the courage and talent of the students who take part, and I encourage anyone with an interest in acting, literature, or public speaking to step outside their comfort zone and have a go.”

Entries close at 5:00pm on Friday 14 August 2026.

Find competition details, entry requirements, and application forms on Mr Hastie’s website here.

[ENDS]