4 July, 2026

Cat in the Hat stays cool for show at Rose Centre

Hat-ready… David Westwood looks forward to performing in the Glass Ceiling Arts Collective production of Seussical Kids

David Westwood has a motto: stay cool, have fun, never give up.
The 13-year-old Belmont Intermediate School student is one of 20 Glass Ceiling Arts Collective North Shore actors performing in the musical Seussical Kids at the Rose Centre in Belmont. He plays the Cat in the Hat and is the show’s narrator.
The company presents a musical theatre production annually at The Rose Centre, which the stars of the show help choose.
Executive director Mike Eaglesome says Glass Ceiling’s point of difference is the way they approach inclusion. “Young people of all abilities are welcome at Glass Ceiling. It means that siblings and friends can all join our classes and be in our shows.” Actors range from 7 to 21 years old, but most are in the 12-16 bracket.

Following rehearsals, David is feeling confident about his lines.
Having a diverse group on stage requires a high level of support from tutors. “It’s really good for those kids who might have trouble but can really do it no matter what,” says David.
Plans are also being made for some Takapuna Grammar School singers to support the performance. “I hope that does happen because those Takapuna Grammar students, oh boy, can they sing!” he says.
David’s mum, Lucy Bennett, says Glass Ceiling’s classes and shows are a wonderful way for kids with physical disabilities to get moving in a creative space.
“It gives them a chance to physicalise, when they can’t participate in sports teams, and they get opportunities they couldn’t get elsewhere. It also provides them with a sense of empowerment and to be seen.”
Four performances take place from 30 July to 1 August. The show is presented with support from the community through the Holy Trinity Op Shop, Bobby Stafford-Bush Foundation and the Rose Centre.

• Seussical Kids at the Rose Centre, Thursday 30 July and Friday 31 July, 7pm; and Saturday 1 August, 1pm and 4pm. Tickets at glassceilingartscollective.com or humanitix.com/nz.