Rotorua high schools have taken out the top two places in the regional Showquest competition for 2020.

Western Heights High School won the Bay of Plenty regional Showquest On-Screen competition, getting them one step closer to the national final in the performing arts event for schools.

John Paul College was in second spot but placed first in three of the eight categories being judged.

In response to Covid-19, Showquest went digital this year by moving performances off-stage and onto the screen. Students worked in groups to plan, film and edit a performance around a theme of their choice.

Themes highlighted the issues that are on today's teens' minds, with performances on social distancing, anxiety created by social media, body positivity and climate change.

The winning school explored the theme of trauma, looking at it through the eyes of someone suffering and delving into their journey towards healing.

Winner team member Amelia Markham-Lumsden says she screamed for joy when she found out the team had won the top spot in the region.

'I believe the performing arts give anyone a chance to express themselves and have the confidence to do so,” says the 16-year-old.

'Being able to creatively express yourself gives you a chance to engage with your mind, body and emotions. I would 110% recommend Showquest to any young New Zealanders who are not only interested in drama, dance and art but film and audio as well.”

Teams were judged by a panel including Antonia Prebble, Maddy Barnett, Claudia Nixon, Lucy Wymer and Taylor Mansfield on their technical skills, performance, movement and overall theme.

Taylor Mansfield, who specialises in judging technical skills says it's inspiring to see a range of different creative styles in young directors and editors.

"I was interested to see the range of topics that videos touched on," he says.

The winning school from each region will go onto a digital national final with a new panel of expert judges and can be watched via the website www.showquest.nz.

Results for this will be announced this week.

Students nationwide excelling in creative leadership roles such as director, choreographer, editor and actor will win a mentoring session with an industry professional.

Showquest awards for the Bay of Plenty:

Open Section Awards:

1st Place - Western Heights High School

2nd Place - John Paul College

3rd Place - ACG Tauranga

Papatuanuku (Best Environmental Story) - John Paul College

Uplifter (Best Positive Message) - Paeroa College

Thinker (Best Educational Message) - Western Heights High School

Trailblazer (Best Original Story) - ACG Tauranga

Belongs in Hollywood (Best Blockbuster) - ACG Tauranga

Magical Moment - John Paul College

Best use of location filming - John Paul College

Most innovative use of lighting - Western Heights High School