The Napier Dramatic Society started in 2017 and was the catalyst for our interest in expanding the arts and culture portfolio of the NGO. The need for ‘something else’ besides sport in the community amongst the youth was huge.

With no access to theatres, movies, ice rinks, public swimming pools, or gaming arcades, the reality was that most of the youngsters were directionless and spent too much time just hanging about. Hip-hop, which is extremely popular, was our first attempt at offering extra mural activities, and it quickly developed to include contemporary dance.

Through our pantomimes, it had become evident that there was a large pool of natural talent, and it gave the youngsters an outlet. We discovered Heurada during this teething phase, and, being a natural dancer, she went on to take the lead role in everything we produced. 

While not every child is good at maths or rugby, nor every child a leader, here was a chance for them all to shine.

And shine they do.