EXCEL Students Step Beyond the Classroom

Behind every performance is a learning environment where students are encouraged to grow not only as performers, but as people.

Tāmaki Makaurau. Auckland, NZ – More than 30 talented young music and dance students from diverse cultural backgrounds at EXCEL School of Performing Arts are preparing to bring two years of learning to life as they embark on a six-week tour of Auckland, Whangārei, Kaitaia and Hamilton, performing at high schools and community concerts.

For these emerging artists, the tour marks an important milestone. It’s their opportunity to step beyond the classroom, perform for live audiences, apply everything they’ve learnt over the past two years, and experience what it means to work as creative professionals.

Working together as a professional touring company, students will showcase their talents while gaining invaluable experience in live performance, teamwork, communication and professionalism – skills that will support them throughout their creative careers.

“This tour is far more than a performance. It’s the culmination of two years of learning, growth and dedication, giving our students the confidence to step into the next chapter of their creative journey.” – Deborah Knight, Principal

For more than 30 years, EXCEL School of Performing Arts has been creating opportunities for young people to discover and develop their creative potential. Guided by experienced specialist tutors and industry professionals across music, vocals, dance and the performing arts, students receive practical, hands-on training while building the confidence, discipline and resilience needed to pursue meaningful careers in the creative industries.

Small class sizes, personalised mentoring and real-world performance opportunities ensure every student is supported to develop not only their artistic ability, but also the professionalism, teamwork and character that will serve them throughout their careers.

Real-World Learning

The tour forms an important part of the students’ Level 5 New Zealand Diploma, providing an authentic learning experience where students apply their skills before live audiences while working together as a professional touring company.

“This tour is a crucial practical assessment. Performing live on the road allows our students to demonstrate industry readiness under real-world conditions while completing a significant component of their NZ Diploma qualification.” – John Knight, Academic Manager

As the tour travels through Auckland, Whangārei, Kaitaia and Hamilton, audiences will experience more than live performances. They’ll witness a new generation of talented young artists taking one of the biggest steps of their lives – moving from students to emerging artists, and from emerging artists towards becoming creative professionals.

2026 TOUR DATES

20-24 July – Auckland

27–29 July – Whangārei

31 July – 2 August – Kaitaia

3–7 August – Auckland

10–14 August – Auckland

17–21 August – Hamilton

24–28 August – Auckland