SMUS’s Liam Pope-Lau recently marked a milestone he won't soon forget. Living out a dream, Pope-Lau performed at Carnegie Hall. Liam began at the Greater Victoria Performing Arts Festival in Saanich, where he clinched a spot at the provincials. Liam's rendition of Act 3, Scene 2 from Shakespeare's Julius Caesar earned him third place and a coveted opportunity to compete in the final showcase at Carnegie Hall's Magnum Opus International Speech and Drama Competition on November 11, 2023.
Liam's Carnegie Hall experience wasn't just about the performance; it was an opportunity to soak in the history, forge connections, and engage with remarkable talents from around the globe. Beyond the competition, Liam immersed himself in a drama workshop at New York University's Tisch School of the Arts, delving deeper into Shakespearean intricacies.
When asked what his favourite part was, Pope-Lau remarked, “Just the experience of getting up there, going on stage, seeing the crowd, my first words, being able to be there, be present in the moment, how beautiful the space is... it was just an amazing experience.”
Currently in Grade 9, Liam commenced his journey into speech arts at the age of 8 under the tutelage of Christy Hill at Speech Arts Victoria. His passion for literature and public speaking has been constant throughout, complementing his involvement in activities like spoken word, debate club, and model UN.
"Public speaking allows me to express myself and share my ideas confidently," Liam affirmed. "It's thrilling to showcase one's abilities and articulate thoughts effectively."
Liam's progression from regional performances to the esteemed stage of Carnegie Hall stands as a profound testament not only to his exceptional talent but also to the profound impact of unwavering dedication and relentless pursuit of personal passions.
Read more about Liam Pope-Lau's experience in the Oak Bay News.
