Singing stars open school in style
Two Broadway stars performed at EIT on Friday as part of the official opening of the 26th New Zealand Singing School.
Americans Alex Rybeck and Black Barn artist in residence and broadway star Liz Callaway took the school's stage, as did Attorney-General Chris Finlayson.
The 10-day school, which takes place every two years, features performances and teaching under the guidance of around 30 experienced tutors and accompanists, as well as performances for members of the public.
New Zealand Singing School Trust chair Eileen von Dadelszen said the school was always held in Hawke's Bay, where its volunteers were based.
"They've always been held in Hawke's Bay because that is it started and that is where the volunteers are," she said. "The highlight that we were all waiting for, of course, was our two broadway artists. They were just amazing. Very few of us have had the opportunity of seeing and hearing broadway stars perform ... They've been so generous in the way they've been dealing with students and the faculty."
Currently there were 81 students and 39 faculty members from all over the world. The event was funded partially by students' fees, and from other groups such as trusts and businesses.
