A SPECTACULAR talent show hosted by students with special needs will celebrate ability at Hastings Secondary College Westport campus on December 14.
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Dubbed ‘Westport Has Talent’, the show will feature dancing and singing, solo acts and group extravaganzas for what promises to be a fantastic night.
Every staff member will have a role to play in helping to produce a wonderful show alongside 40 students with disabilities who will be performing.
“Our students have special needs and they don’t have many highlights in their life where they can be recognised for their ability,” said staff member Pauline Brooks.
“We tried to find more areas that they can enjoy and participate like other teenagers at this school and this was a great way to do that.”
The talent show has been held each year since 2011, with hundreds of parents and students packing out the hall consistently.
“The students really look forward to it, as do the parents and families. The excitement is felt in the room,” Pauline said.
“Some of the students stay up on the stage, you just can’t get them off as they play on the excitement of the crowd.
“On the other hand, it also helps other students overcome their nerves and are able to get up on stage and realise they can perform in front of people if they try.”
Staff member Bernard Browne, along with fellow teacher Lucas Tierney, came up with the idea several years ago.
“We have a marvellous history here of productions in the school and we wanted to do a similar thing for out disabled students,” he said.
“It is very rewarding for everyone involved, not just the students.”
The talented students will kick things off with performances starting at 6.30pm. Doors open at 6pm. Entry is a gold coin donation and canteen facilities are available.