The flood of sweat and tears is ramping up in Dunedin schools as they put the finishing touches to their Stage Challenge and J Rock performances.
Pupils from nine Dunedin schools will take to the stage at the Edgar Centre on May 4 to deliver key motivational messages through dance, drama and design.
Their original pieces of work can be based on themes significant to the community or on concepts as vast as they can imagine - from political and social messages to pure fantasy.
They will be among 16,000 pupils from 200 schools participating, nationwide.
Event manager Sarah-Jane Phillips said the event aimed to keep young people attending school regularly, setting goals, staying fit and healthy, and having fun without tobacco, alcohol or other drugs.
It also aimed to provide an opportunity to be part of a performing arts event that would provide a lasting memory, she said.
''The best part about the event is that it gives pupils the chance to experience the natural high you get when performing on stage in front of large audiences.''
Most schools have been rehearsing since the start of the school year, and countless hours of work have been put in behind the scenes on costumes and sets.
Teachers can use elements of the preparation for NCEA assessments in subjects such as dance, drama, woodwork, art and textiles.
Stage Challenge producer Helen Sjoquist was delighted with how the event had grown over 23 years.
''More than 250,000 students have been part of the event and I am proud to witness and hear about their accomplishments.''
