The Private Speech and Drama programme at the College provides tuition for students who wish to hone their public speaking and performance skills. During the course of the year many of the students work towards examinations in Speech and Drama or Communications with either the New Zealand Speech Board or Trinity College of London. There are also opportunities for our students to enter local competitions in both public speaking and speech.
Ashton Brown
Bachelor of Performing and Screen Arts (Acting for Screen and Theatre)
Saint Kentigern College Alumni, Ashton Brown has just completed his 10th year as an Acting Coach, Speech & Drama Tutor, and Public Speaking Coach at the College. Since completing his degree at Drama School, Ashton has spent years working professionally as a writer for television, voice actor, character actor and stand-up comedian. You may have seen him on Shortland Street, television commercials or heard his voice Power Rangers without even knowing!
Ashton works with students of all ages and ability levels. He is experienced at teaching all 8 grades of the Trinity College exams (Speech & Drama, Acting Skills, Screen Acting & Communication Skills), as well as working with students who lack confidence in all areas of communication. Ashton firmly believes in creating a fun and open environment in which creativity can thrive.
Ashton himself graduated from Saint Kentigern College in 2005.
Lana Macfarlane
Bachelor of Arts, Musical Theatre
Lana MacFarlane is a graduate of the National Academy of Singing and Dramatic Art, holding a Bachelor of Arts in Music Theatre. She has been working professionally within the performing arts industry for the past 12 years, including performing on board cruise ships and living and working as a performer in Asia.
Lana has been vocal coaching and teaching for over 10 years and holds a Diploma in Secondary School Teaching as a Dance, Drama, and Music teacher. She believes in creating a safe and fun environment, where students feel comfortable to try new things while thriving and building their self-confidence.
Lana is experienced in guiding students through trinity exams for both Speech & Drama and Musical Theatre.
Ben Egan
Bachelor of Performing Arts and Screen Arts Majoring in Acting
Ben Egan is a seasoned tutor with a remarkable track record in acting that spans over fifteen years. His journey includes leading the first-ever Howick College Sheila Winn group to the national competition, the first in his school to achieve an outstanding mark in the NCEA Drama Scholarship, and accumulating multiple awards for outstanding performances in both film and theatre projects during his time gaining his bachelor in performing arts and screen arts.
With seven years of dedicated tutoring experience in both music and drama, three of which were spent at Saint Kentigern, Ben brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to his role. Specializing in vocal practices influenced by the renowned Kirsten Linklater and Cicely Berry techniques, Ben's passion for nurturing talent extends beyond the classroom.
His active participation in professional sets for Amazon, Power Rangers, and contracts with major companies like Fuji film showcase his practical skills and versatility. Adept at tailoring his teaching approach to accommodate students of various ages and experience, Ben is committed to fostering a dynamic and enjoyable learning environment while addressing the unique needs of each student.
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