Upbeat for Friday 14 August 2015

2pm Liam Scarlett

Choreographer Liam Scarlett is a hot property in international ballet. He's been commissioned by The Royal New Zealand Ballet to create a new Midsummer Night's Dream using Mendelssohn's glorious score. He's a big fan of the Dream and the opportunities he's had to explore its timeless story.  

RNZB dancer Laura Jones as Titania from A Midsummer Night's Dream Photo: Royal New Zealand Ballet Company

2:20 Trevor Thwaites

Trevor Thwaites runs instrument supplier KBB's music festival. Hundreds of dedicated performers make his job an invigorating experience musically and personally. 

2:40 John Rosser

John Rosser is chair of the New Zealand Choral Federation. The Big Sing Festival is the highlight of his year seeing literally hundreds of young singers bursting with energy and superb vocal ability compete at National level.