Change Of Direction At Toi Whakaari

Change Of Direction At Toi Whakaari: NZ Drama School

After 14 years as the Director of Toi Whakaari: NZ Drama School, Annie Ruth has recently announced that she will be stepping down from the post in May 2011.

Annie, a graduate of Toi Whakaari (Diploma in Professional Drama, Acting, 1972), has been involved with the School in a variety of roles throughout the years: as a student for one year, a tutor for three years, Head of the Acting Department for six years and, since 1997, as the Director.

Annie has always had a strong vision for Toi Whakaari as the leading dramatic arts training institution in New Zealand and beyond, and she has played an active role in the School’s productions as director and tutor for the students.

Annie has been an outstanding Director, instrumental in developing and growing the School’s expanding range of qualifications, and she will be greatly missed

“I have loved being a part of this wonderful School for the past twenty years and leading it for the last fourteen. I promised myself when I took over as Director that I would leave before I grew tired of the role. At this moment I can still say ‘this is the best job in the world’, so I feel I’ve achieved that. The School has never been stronger and I am deeply proud of my contribution.

I am currently doing a PhD in theatre, to be completed by the end of 2012. In May next year, my wife Jo and I will go travelling in Europe and northern Africa. After that…? Many adventures I hope, including working with many of Toi Whakaari’s graduates.”

Recruitment for Annie’s replacement will begin shortly.

Ends.

NOTES TO EDITOR:
About Toi Whakaari:
Established in 1970 as a small acting school for nine hopefuls, Toi Whakaari: NZ Drama School has grown to a School of nearly 150 students, with qualifications in Acting, Design for Stage and Screen, Entertainment Technology, Performing Arts Management, Costume Construction and Directing.

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