Global warming, temptation, and the consequences of racism are among the themes more than 700 Otago secondary school pupils will explore during Stage Challenge performances at the Regent Theatre, in Dunedin, today.
Stage Challenge associate producer Laura Staples said the performance themes were aimed at encouraging young people to explore contemporary social issues in a creative way.
Stage Challenge was now in its 16th year, and emphasised "a 100% drug-, tobacco- and alcohol-free ethos," she said.
"As a nation we must take ownership and action over issues within our communities if we wish to see change, and it is refreshing to see a large majority of young people prepared to stand up and take this," she said.
Queens High School pupils will deal with racism and social prejudice in "It's a Sin To Kill A Mockingbird", while the Columba College performance would deal with the pressure of modern life, she said.
More than 16,000 pupils from 209 schools will participate in Stage Challenge and J Rock events in 13 regions this year.
Bayfield High School, Columba College, Kaikorai Valley College, Kings High School, Logan Park High School, Otago Girls High School, Queens High School, South Otago High School, and Wakatipu High School will perform at the Regent Theatre today.
