HON ANDREW HASTIE MP
FEDERAL MEMBER FOR CANNING
SHADOW MINISTER FOR DEFENCE
SHADOW MINISTER FOR DEFENCE INDUSTRY
SHADOW MINISTER FOR DEFENCE PERSONNEL

MEDIA RELEASE

CANNING SHAKESPEARE COMPETITION CELEBRATES TALENTED YOUNG PERFORMERS

2 September 2024

Federal Member for Canning, Andrew Hastie MP, is pleased to announce the winners of the 9th Annual Canning Shakespeare Competition, held over the weekend in the Fish Trap Theatre at the Mandurah Performing Arts Centre.

The event showcased the exceptional talents of 19 local senior high school students, bringing the works of William Shakespeare to life on stage.

Congratulations to the winners:

1st Place: Benjamin Nicoll, awarded $1,000 for his outstanding performance as Lance from The Two Gentlemen of Verona.

2nd Place: Mackenzie Harrison, awarded $750 for her impressive portrayal of Tamora from Titus Andronicus.

3rd Place: Logan Waddell, awarded $500 for his captivating rendition of Macbeth from Macbeth.

Mr. Hastie extends his heartfelt congratulations to all 19 participants who took part in this year’s competition. “Thank you to everyone who participated, and to our dedicated teachers and families who supported these talented students.”

“This competition is about more than just awards—it's about finding our next generation of stars and encouraging students to embrace risk, build self-confidence, and master the English language.

“Performing one of Shakespeare’s great monologues is no easy task, but it’s a chance to be bold, take a risk, and grow through training and preparation.

“I’m proud of every student who stepped up to this challenge,” Mr Hastie said.

The performances were judged by a panel of industry professionals: voice coaches Julia Moody and Deb Mitchell, and Western Australian Academy Performing Arts (WAAPA) Shakespeare expert Dr. Tom Heath. “We are grateful to our judges for sharing their invaluable insights with the next generation of performers,” Mr. Hastie added.

Looking ahead, Mr. Hastie is excited to continue the tradition of the Canning Shakespeare Competition, with next year marking the 10th anniversary. The 2025 competition will enjoy the support of WAAPA and will be held at their venue, promising an even more spectacular celebration of young talent.

“We encourage even more students to participate next year and ask teachers to help guide them in discovering Shakespeare’s works and developing their performance skills.” Mr Hastie said.

[ENDS]