Prima Facie
PRIMA FACIE
Written by Suzie Miller
Directed by Michael Hurst
Starring Cassandra Woodhouse
“SOMEWHERE. SOMETIME. SOMEHOW SOMETHING HAS TO CHANGE.”
Tessa Ensler loves her job. She's worked her way up from a working-class background to being a top criminal defense barrister at the top of her game - prosecuting, cross-examining and winning in the courtroom with her quick wit and intelligence. Fighting to defend those pleading not guilty - including securing freedom for men accused of rape and sexual assault. Innocent until proven guilty is, after all, the bedrock of human rights.
An unexpected event however forces Tessa to confront the very system she has spent her life believing and working within - a system where the lines of patriarchal power and burden of proof are not set up to accommodate the lived experience of sexual assault survivors.
Acclaimed Oliver and Tony award-winning play, Suzie Miller's Prima Facie is an unforgettable story and one-woman tour de force that has the power to question the structure of the legal system and takes us to the heart of where emotion and experience conflict within the system as we know it.
Prima Facie was first produced by Griffin Theatre Company in May 2019 at the SBW Stables Theatre followed by the award-winning 2022 West End premiere at the Harold Pinter Theatre which then travelled to the Golden Theatre on Broadway in 2023. Prima Facie is currently being translated and performed all over the world and in 2023 was also released into a book.
Directed by NZ acting royalty Michael Hurst and performed by Cassandra Woodhouse, NZ Theatre Company is honoured to bring Prima Facie to the New Zealand stage and continue the call to action that this story is demanding worldwide.
WHEN: 18-22 June
WHERE: The Pumphouse Theatre
TICKETS: https://pumphouse.co.nz/whats-on/show/prima-facie/
AFLOAT 20 Years After The Rise: a new musical
AFloat: 20 years after The Rise: a new musical
written by Sammy Hook and Harrison Maxwell
Afloat: 20 years after The Rise is set in a future where a nuclear plant close to Antarctica malfunctioned, resulting in the rapid melting of polar ice caps.
The event became known as The Rise, as it caused sea levels to obliterate cities and all land is lost to the icy depths. Survivors have created communuties by building habitats on floating debris, coming together to evolve into cities that maintain previous land positions, in the hope that one day the waters will recede.
Our story takes place around 20 years after The Rise on New Zealand waters, where a floating empire has formed. This empire was founded by a woman who is know to the community only as "She". She has kept her community afloat by enforcing rules of safety, some verging on extreme. Aria and Fermata are second-generation survivors and the focus of our story.
They quickly get caught up in a growing rebellion, frustrated by the restrictions forced upon them, and plot to overthrow She to grant the people of the community their freedom.
Aria is offered the ultimate choice by She: betray her life-long friend Fermata and be granted the rebels' freedom, or remain loyal and risk everything.
This musical production includes a cast of 17 talented performers and 20 original songs, and will sweep you along by the ebb and flow of Aria and Fermata's journey, cresting waves of their emotional turmoil, as they plunge into the depths of the final act and crash against the shores of your hearts!
WHEN: 28 & 29 June
WHERE: Playhouse Theatre, Glen Eden
TICKETS: https://www.afloatmusical.com/event
Five go On An Adventure
Tim Bray Theatre Company presents “Five Go On An Adventure”
Oh, what a marvellous adventure!
Julian, Dick and Anne, their cousin George, and dog Timmy, head off together on an adventure and end up having to solve a dastardly mystery. Along the way they meet some frightfully awful baddies and get into all sorts of scrapes. Luckily, our five heroes are famous for getting out of trouble!
With courage, capers and plenty of sandwiches and ginger beer, this Tim Bray Theatre Company show reminds us all that fun, friendship and fortitude always fool the felons! Hoorah!
After the sell-out 2023 season of Enid Blyton’s The Magic Faraway Tree, children of all ages (and their grown-ups) won’t want to miss this terrific tale.
WHEN:
Gala show Sat 29th June 5pm
Public tickets Sat 6th July – Sat 20th July 10:30am & 1pm
Schools and Early Childhood Education (ECEs) tickets Mon 1st July – Fri 5th July 10:30am & 1pm
WHERE: The PumpHouse Theatre
TICKETS: https://nz.patronbase.com/_TimBray/Productions/24E2/Performances
CINDERELLA
Playhouse Theatre Inc presents
CINDERELLA
Rodgers and Hammerstein's enchanting adaptation of the timeless fairytale performed by a youth cast aged 18 and under. Cinderella is the heartfelt tale of the girl from the cinders who although mistreated by her cruel stepmother and stepsisters, attends the royal ball through the help of a fairy godmother and meets her prince.
WHEN: 13-20 July
WHERE: Glen Eden Playhouse, AUCKLAND
TICKETS: https://www.eventfinda.co.nz/2024/roger-and-hammerstein-cinderella/auckland/glen-eden
The Sponge Bob Musical Youth Edition
Kids 4 Drama presents The Sponge Bob Musical - Youth Edition
A one-act edition of the hit musical, specially tailored for young actors!
Plunge into this stunning all-singing, all-dancing, dynamic stage show! When the citizens of Bikini Bottom discover that a volcano will soon erupt and destroy their humble home, SpongeBob and his friends must come together to save the fate of their undersea world. With lives hanging in the balance and all hope lost, a most unexpected hero rises up. The power of optimism really can save the world!
The SpongeBob Musical is based on the beloved animated series created by Stephen Hillenburg and features a book by Kyle Jarrow, with original songs by Yolanda Adams, Steven Tyler and Joe Perry of Aerosmith, Sara Bareilles, Jonathan Coulton, Alexander Ebert of Edward Sharpe & The Magnetic Zeros, The Flaming Lips, Lady A, Cyndi Lauper, John Legend, Panic! At the Disco, Plain White T’s, They Might Be Giants and T.I., and songs by David Bowie, Tom Kenny and Andy Paley. Additional lyrics are by Jonathan Coulton, with additional music by Tom Kitt. The musical production was conceived by Tina Landau.
An exciting new musical featuring irresistible characters and magical music, this deep-sea pearl of a show is set to make a splash with audiences young and old. The future is bright, the future is bold, the future is The SpongeBob Musical.
WHEN: 18-20 July
WHERE: Blockhouse Bay Primary School
TICKETS: www.ticketor.com/kids4drama
Spider's Web
Shoreside Theatre presents
Spider’s Web by Agatha Christie
Murder, police, drugs, hidden doorways and secret drawers!
Clarissa, the wife of a Foreign Office diplomat, is prone to daydreaming. ‘Supposing I were to come down one morning and find a dead body in the library, what should I do?’ she muses. Clarissa has her chance to find out when she discovers a body in the drawing room of her house in Kent.
Agatha Christie’s comedy thriller in three acts delivers a unique blend of suspense and humour in a great night of theatre.
WHEN: Thu 25th July to Sun 4th August 2024
WHERE: The Pumphouse Theatre
TICKETS: https://pumphouse.co.nz/whats-on/show/spiders-web-by-agatha-christie/
Dot and the Kangaroo JR
StageAntics presents The New Zealand Premiere of Dot & the Kangaroo JR
This family fun musical tells the story of young, rambunctious Dot who longs for an adventure, exploring everything the country has to offer.
When she finds herself lost and afraid in the darkening Australian bush, Dot befriends a wise mother Kangaroo who enlists the help of Australia's favourite bush creatures to help Dot find her way back home.
An hour long musical perfect for all ages...
WHEN: 2 & 3 August
WHERE: Buckland Hall, Pukekohe
TICKETS: https://events.humanitix.com/dot-and-the-kangaroo-jr
Jason Parker & Isla Noon
Jason Parker and Isla Noon are bringing capital P pop music to Ponsonby Social Club.
Jason Parker is an effervescent beam of positive energy. His pop perfect vocals, unforgettable live shows and uplifting song writing is what makes him one to watch in 2024. Parker has already garnered attention for his unique approach to music that merges unapologetically pop bangers with fearless emotional depth. Rolling Stone named his recent single Crash as the ‘Song You Need To Know’ and tonight we celebrate his most recent release The Bright Side both off his highly anticipated sophomore EP Fairy Bread.Intelligent, intuitive, and searingly honest.
Those are the words that come to mind when talking about Aotearoa New Zealand alt-pop artist Isla Noon. Her shimmering and anthemic craft has earned both international and local acclaim, described by Rolling Stone as ‘glistening, dance-pop perfection.’ With the latest single ‘Her’ heralded by Backseat Mafia as “a veritable tour de force that shakes and thunders”, and a debut album on the horizon, Isla Noon continues to establish herself as one of the most exciting Antipodean artists of the decade.
WHEN: Saturday 15 June
WHERE: Ponsonby Social
TICKETS: https://www.undertheradar.co.nz/ticket/24713/Jason-Parker-And-Isla-Noon.utr
Peter and the Wolf with Dynamotion
Auckland Philharmonia presents
GIGGLES AND GROWLS GALORE GUARANTEED IN NEW CHILDREN’S PRODUCTION
Join a hilarious hunt for a wolf on the loose at Auckland Philharmonia’s newest children’s production, Peter and the Wolf with Dynamotion. For this family-friendly retelling of the beloved musical classic, Peter and the Wolf, super-talented comedy dance troupe, Dynamotion, reunites with Auckland Philharmonia’s full professional orchestra. Over two unmissable performances on 8 June in the Auckland Town Hall, Peter and the Wolf with Dynamotion combines the best of comedy and live music into one fun, riotous production.
Audiences will be hooting and howling as Dynamotion’s Lara Fischel-Chisholm, Tom Sainsbury, plus some of the finest dance comedians Aotearoa has to offer, narrate Prokofiev’s symphonic tale, Peter and the Wolf. Prokofiev’s well-loved musical classic has delighted tamariki for generations and this comical, interactive production gives it a Kiwi twist. The Auckland Philharmonia will play alongside Dynamotion and illustrate the story using different instruments to play the well-known themes that represent each character.
Dynamotion’s Lara Fischel-Chisholm and Tom Sainsbury are excited to bring their trademark joy, humour, and quirky interpretation to this special children’s production and say, “We are thrilled to get our creative paws on such a well-loved story and score... and to bring the joy of Dynamotion to a show fit for the whole fam.”
Following on from the success of 2023’s Carnival of the Animals, these Auckland Philharmonia concerts in partnership with Dynamotion have become a must-see for primary-aged children and are sure to have their parents and caregivers chuckling along too.
Expect silly costumes, funny characters and Prokofiev’s beloved score as Dynamotion and the Auckland Philharmonia bring Peter and the Wolf to life. Pick your favourite characters and dance and howl along to support them at this creative storytelling that will entertain the whole whānau. There will also be free, fun pre-concert family activities on offer ahead of the show.
Don’t get caught (like you know who) without tickets to Peter and the Wolf with Dynamotion. Head to aucklandphil.nz/peter-and-the-wolf for event information and booking.
WHEN: 8 June 2024 11am & 2pm
WHERE: Auckland Town Hall
TICKETS: http://aucklandphil.nz/peter-and-the-wolf
Much Ado About Nothing
MUCH ADO ABOUT NOTHING
by William Shakespeare
Directed by Annie Whittaker
The music scene of the 1970’s plays host to Shakespeare’s classic tale of love, rumor, and innuendo. Rock band The Dukes have arrived at Leonata’s club for their latest gig. Claudio quickly falls in love with the Leonata’s daughter Hero while Benedick and Beatrice engage in a war of words, both promising to never marry. But Claudio and Hero soon hatch a plot to make Beatrice and Benedick fall in love with each other, while the villainous Don John plots the downfall of both would-be couples. Will the romance end in ruin, or will rock and roll win the day?
WHEN: 7-22 June
WHERE: Dolphin Theatre, Onehunga
TICKETS: https://nz.patronbase.com/_DolphinTheatre/Productions/2403/Performances
Into The Woods JR
StageAntics presents Into the Woods JR
Into the Woods JR. features all of your favorite characters — Cinderella, Little Red Riding Hood, Jack (and his beanstalk) and the Witch — in this lyrically rich retelling of classic Brothers Grimm fables.
The musical centers on a baker and his wife, who wish to have a child; Cinderella, who wishes to attend the King’s festival; and Jack, who wishes his cow would give milk. When the baker and his wife learn that they cannot have a child because of a witch’s curse, the two set off on a journey to break the curse, and wind up changed forever.
WHEN: Wednesday 5th & Thursday 6th June 2024
WHERE: The Pumphouse Theatre
TICKETS: https://pumphouse.co.nz/whats-on/show/into-the-woods-jr/
Developing Your Stage Management Skills
The Pumphouse presents Backstage Workshop Series 2024
Workshop #3 - Developing Your Stage Management Skills with Teresa Sokolich.
Learn the art of Stage Management from one of Auckland’s most experienced stage and production managers, Teresa Sokolich.
Developing your Stage Management Skills is designed for those new to stage management – perhaps you’ve always wanted to have a go, or you’ve stage managed a couple of shows and want to learn how a professional approaches this crucial role.
Teresa invites you to join her behind the scenes of Tadpole Theatre’s May season to see how she runs her productions – from prop tables to spike marks, script notation to cues, she’ll use her very real production documents and live stage to explain how she gets things done.
This four-hour workshop, held on a Saturday, is just $30 – an absolute bargain to learn from one of NZ’s leading theatre experts.
WHEN: 18 May, 10am -2pm
WHERE: The Pumphouse Theatre
TICKETS: https://pumphouse.co.nz/whats-on/show/developing-stage-management-skills/
Health and Safety in the Theatre
The Pumphouse presents Backstage Workshop Series 2024
Workshop #2 - Health and Safety in the Theatre with Rob Holland.
Presented by an expert in Health and Safety and technical theatre, you’ll come away from this workshop with a greater level of understanding and confidence around Health and Safety and be able to use this knowledge at arts venues around Auckland.
Designed for theatre practitioners of all levels, this will especially suit those who have positions of responsibility such as stage managers, lighting team leaders, and designers. Filled with practical exercises, real-work theatre examples, and suggested documentation and templates this is a must-attend for anyone with Health and Safety responsibilities.
To encourage as many people to attend as possible, this two-and-a-half-hour workshop is entry by donation and includes refreshments and resources.
WHEN: 9 May, 7 - 9.30pm
WHERE: The Pumphouse Theatre
TICKETS: https://pumphouse.co.nz/whats-on/show/health-and-safety-in-the-theatre/
Marketing Your Show Effectively
The Pumphouse presents Backstage Workshop Series 2024
Workshop #1 - Marketing your Show Effectively with Meg Andrews
Join The PumpHouse Theatre’s Marketing and Box Office Coordinator Meg Andrews for a round-up of marketing strategies and tactics to help sell your show in the busy Auckland theatre world.
Covering topics from Facebook ads to using ChatGPT, how to craft an amazing press release, and what to put on your poster to generate ticket sales.
With a room full of passionate theatre marketers, there will be a chance to share your successes, ask questions, and try a few practice exercises. This two-and-a-half-hour workshop is just $20 per person and includes refreshments and resources.
WHEN: 7 May, 7-9.30pm
WHERE: The Pumphouse Theatre
TICKETS: https://pumphouse.co.nz/whats-on/show/marketing-your-show-effectively/
Larybinth
Night Waffles presents Larybinth
Join be-jeaned and billowy-sleeved Sarah Waistcoat as she journeys through the deceptive Larybinth to get to Jared Bowie's cave castle...
Will she make it in time to save Baby Tony? Will anyone listen to her icky yet boring poetry? Will Hongle ever get to be a powerful babe? Does that stink ever wash off? Do owls cry?
These questions, and more, will be answered in LARYBINTH...
Inspired by the beloved 80s fantasy movie and David Bowie's pants, but just so, so much sillier.Like, really a lot sillier. We hope you get how silly.
Written by Lee Smith-Gibbons for Night Waffles, whose previous daft shows include The Exorshit, Strange Thing and Interviews With A Vampires.
Larybinth stars Matthew Crawley, Lucy Suttor, Jimmy Metherell, Lee Smith-Gibbons,and the internet's own Tom Sainsbury.
WHEN: 1-4 May, 8pm
WHERE: Pitt St Theatre, Newton, Auckland
TICKETS: https://www.eventfinda.co.nz/2024/larybinth/auckland/newton/tickets
CLUE
Dolphin Theatre presents CLUE ON STAGE
by Jonathan Lynn, Hunter Foster, Sandy Rustin, & Eric Price
Directed by Christina Christopher
Based on the classic board game and adapted from the cult classic comedy film. Six blackmail victims are invited to an isolated mansion by a man who knows a dark secret from each of their pasts. On arrival, each is given a pseudonym, before being introduced to the blackmailer. Each is handed a weapon, at which point the lights are switched off and the blackmailer is killed. Murder mystery soon gives way to hilarious comedy as they all race to discover who amongst them is the killer.
WHEN: 19 April - 4 May 2024
WHERE: The Dolphin Theatre, Onehunga
TICKETS: https://nz.patronbase.com/_DolphinTheatre/Productions/2402/Performances
The Wizard of Oz
Harlequin Musical Theatre presents The Wizard of Oz
Directed by John Fausett
Join Dorothy Gale as she is swept away from Kansas, to the magical land of Oz by a tornado.Accompanied by newfound friends—a clever Scarecrow, a compassionate Tin Man, and a timid Lion—she sets out on a quest to find the Wizard of Oz and find her way back home. Along the way, they confront the menacing Wicked Witch of the West, discovering courage, friendship, and the true meaning of home. With unforgettable songs and captivating adventures, this musical weaves a timeless tale that enchants audiences of all ages.
WHEN: 19 April - 4 May
WHERE: Harlequin Musical Theatre, Pakuranga Road
TICKETS: https://www.iticket.co.nz/events/2024/apr/harlequin-wizard-of-oz
The Anniversary
The Playhouse Theatre Inc presents
The Anniversary
Playhouse Theatre Incorporated presents The Anniversary - a dark comedy. Since Dad died, Mum has carried on the family business and profits have increased two-fold. Keeping a tight rein on her three sons, and using every verbal weapon in her considerable arsenal, Mum's plans for an anniversary celebration (despite her late husband's absence) bring out rebellion among the sons and her long-held reign is ended at last.
WHEN: 13 - 27 April
WHERE: Glen Eden Playhouse Theatre, Auckland
TICKETS: https://www.eventfinda.co.nz/2024/the-anniversary/auckland/glen-eden/tickets
Queen_St Remembers
Queen_St presents
Queen_St Remembers
Lest we forget, through an evening of songs of tribute from WWI, WWII & the Vietnam era including songs from the Andrew’s Sisters, Vera Lynn, Peter Paul & Mary and more…. There’s something for everyone.
This cabaret supports our amazing StageAntics rangatahi representing Aotearoa as part of the Newcastle Combined Schools Commemorative Anzac Service.
So book a seat or a table, order a nibble platter and be in for a great night of entertainment.
Book quick before we sell out!!!
WHEN: Saturday 12th April, 7.00pm
WHERE: Papatoetoe Softball Club, Pah Rd, Papatoetoe
TICKETS: Email qstreetentertainment@gmail.com
The Great Piratical Rumbustification
Tim Bray Theatre Company presents
The Great Piratical Rumbustification
Hoist the Flag of Fun and Mayhem
Shiver me timbers! The pirates are restless, yearning for a grand piratical adventure. “Oh, for a pirate party!” they proclaim. But, as any good pirate knows, a proper pirate party must be a stolen one. So now, get ready to set sail into the high seas of imagination as Margaret Mahy’s delightful tale, The Great Piratical Rumbustification, comes to life in a swashbuckling stage performance by Tim Bray Theatre Company.
Join our young hero, Oliver Terrapin, as he opens up the doors of his oblivious parents’ home for a party – a party with real pirates!
Mayhem ensues in this rollicking, rumbunctious rumpus of an escapade by Tim Bray Theatre Company that promises the most piratical fun you’ve had in years. Yo ho ho!!
WHEN: 13 - 27 April - 10.30am & 1pm
WHERE: The Pumphouse Theatre
WHEN: 4 May - 10.30am & 1pm
WHERE: Due Drop Event Centre
WHEN: 11 May - 10.30am & 1pm
WHERE: Māngere Arts Centre - Ngā Tohu o Uenuku
TICKETS: https://timbray.org.nz/the-great-piratical-rumbustification/
Benedict Cumberbatch Must Die
Shoreside Theatre presents
Benedict Cumberbatch Must Die
Three obsessed fans of Benedict Cumberbatch come together for the first time at a fan club meeting. Their goal? To meet Benedict while he is in New Zealand filming and for him to fall in love with one of them. How will they do it? By devising a show in the hopes he’ll come see it and fall hopelessly in love with one of them.
This is a hilarious and energetic one-act play that shows the lengths fans will go to to meet their idol.
Directed by Christine Ball.
WHEN: 10 - 21 April 2024
WHERE: The Pumphouse Theatre
TICKETS: https://nz.patronbase.com/_PumpHouse/Productions/BCMD/Performances
Tunes 4 Tamariki: Toi Time
Auckland Live presents Tunes 4 Tamariki: Toi Time
The Toi Time team join the Auckland Philharmonia to explore the magical world of music in this interactive one-hour concert specially designed for the under-sixes.
And, don’t miss the chance to walk through the orchestra while the musicians are playing to see the instruments up close.
WHEN: 7th April, 2024 - 10am & 11.30am
WHERE: Auckland Town Hall
WHEN: 13 April, 10am & 11.30am
WHERE: Bruce Mason Centre
TICKETS: Auckland Live
“In Pieces”
Masked Productions presents The New Zealand Premiere of “In Pieces”
An unforgettable musical journey of self-discovery, growth & acceptance.
This pop-driven musical, written and composed by Fred Ebb Award Finalist and Jonathan Larson Grant Finalist Joey Contreras, takes you on a heartfelt exploration of identity and the interconnectedness of human experiences.
Follow 8 individuals living in New York City as they contemplate their past choices, learning from who they were, embracing who they’ve become, and discovering who they want to be. This emotionally charged musical promises a rollercoaster of highs and lows, ultimately leading to self-discovery and acceptance.
4 SHOWS ONLY!
Book, Music & Lyrics: Joey Contreras
Director: Rebekkah Schoonbeek-BerridgeMusical Director: Courtney Noble
WHEN: 28 - 30 March, 2024
WHERE: The Pumphouse Theatre
TICKETS: https://nz.patronbase.com/_PumpHouse/Productions/MPIP/Performances
Realm of Tears
Basement Theatre presents
Realm of Tears
A world created to invite imperfection. Be a tangiweto (a sook/sensitive), indulge in pleasure and sensuality, laugh at the intrusive thoughts, step into rage, feel lost, reflect in compassion and accountability. In our current reality where capitalism and individualism is encouraged, therapy talk weaponised, and healing journeys intellectualised rather than felt. It is rare to find space or time to navigate all these sensations. Sit in this ethereal Realm of Tears where the marginalised are invited to unapologetically feel and thrive.
Directed and Choreographed by Renee Wiki (She/Her) (Te Aupōuri, Ngāti Kurī, Te Rarawa, Ngāpuhi, Kūki Āirani, NZ European Descent).
Created and Performed by Rewa Fowles (She/They) queer Māori and Pākehā multidisciplinary artist.
Content warning: PG-16 age restriction, Sudden Light changes, Sudden Volume changes, Sexual trauma and abuse, Childhood trauma, Strong language, Threats of violence, Sexual references, Depiction of mental illness, Suggested drug use.
WHEN: 26-28 March, 8pm
WHERE: The Basement Theatre
TICKETS: https://www.iticket.co.nz/events/2024/mar/realm-of-tears
The Sun and the Wind
Te Ahurei Toi o Tāmaki Auckland Arts Festival 2024 & Taurima Vibes
presents
The Sun and the Wind
An award winning play inspired by whānau adoption.
A Māori-kaupapa driven play dealing with mental illness and healing will make its Auckland debut in March.
The Sun and the Wind, written by current Bruce Mason Playwriting Award winner, Tainui Tukiwaho, is about a couple who are caught off guard by two burglars and who the couple mistaken for their deceased son and his wife. It tackles themes of grief, hope, love, and loss.
Produced by Tainui’s brother, Borni Tukiwaho of Taurima Vibes, the story was inspired by the whāngai, Māori adoption, of their mother when she was a baby. She reconnected with her biological whānau in her adult years and saw how her adoption impacted her birth father.
“The Sun and the Wind is a story from a Māori-specific lens, exploring how the depths of despair, and loss of one’s child can shape how we navigate our world and the long-lasting impact grief has on the well-being of our people,” Tainui says.
The play was a finalist at the prestigious Adams Playwriting Award in 2022 and has been performed in Wellington. The production will tour regionally after its Auckland performances. The Sun and the Wind stars Taungaroa Emile, Joe Dekkers-Reihana, Tuakoi Ohia, and Julie Edwards, who won the Best Actress prize at last year’s Wellington Theatre Awards for her role. It’s directed by Edward Peni.
Tainui promises that the production will engage audiences of all ages with its dynamic storytelling, compelling characters, and visually stunning and award winning performances.
“Our team has meticulously crafted a production that merges traditional Māori storytelling techniques with cutting-edge stagecraft, promising an immersive and unforgettable experience,” he says.
Show producer, Borni, says he founded the theatre company Taurima Vibes to give a voice to marginalised and undervalued communities and to bridge the gap between the privileged and under-resourced.
“This play has been crafted to generate insightful korero, provoke and challenge the colonised ideals that we are constantly told are the ‘best’ ways to deal with our grief and mental health needs and asks the question: How do we reclaim our own means of healing?”
WHEN: 20 - 24 March 2024
WHERE: The Loft, Q Theatre
TICKETS: https://nz.patronbase.com/_QTheatre4/Productions/2408/Performances
Romeo & Juliet
Titirangi Theatre presents
Romeo & Juliet
Directed by Ross Brannigan.
William Shakespeare’s Romeo & Juliet has been called many things, including ‘the greatest love story ever told’ and it is as relevant today as it ever was.
This is a play about the amazing strength of first love; about the importance of remembering how it is possible to love unconditionally, in the face of everything the older generation can throw at you.
The world may not always be a kind place, but it could be a better one if only we could remember the purity of the first time you gave your heart thinking that no one else has ever felt a passion so strong, and that it will last forever.
There is no secret about how this tragic story ends. It runs like an unstoppable freight train speeding, for an action-packed two hours, to its inevitable end. It deals with themes of a society where people are polarised, almost tribally and where peer and parental expectations can be fatal.
WHEN: 19 - 30 March
WHERE: Lopdell Theatre, Titirangi, Auckland
TICKETS: https://nz.patronbase.com/_TitirangiTheatre/Productions
100 Things
Ōtepoti Fringe presents 100 Things
100 Things is the craziest new improv show in Tāmaki Makaurau, and it's coming down to Ōtepoti for the first time ever!
Can these improv BFF's set the Guinness World Record for most audience suggestions used per minute in an improv show?
In this improvised comedy spectacular, three great friends and talented improvisors will gather 100 audience suggestions (yeah that's right, one hundred suggestions) and then incorporate every single one of them into the 90 minute show. At least, that's the goal! Will they achieve it? Come along and find out! If they make it, they'll set two new Guiness World Records for most ask-fors used per minute in an improv show. How's that for an original world record category?!
Performed by Rebecca Mary Gwendolon, Izzy Renton and Frankie Browne; three improvisor besties who are always hearing what great chemistry they have together, so they decided to put it to the ultimate test.
"[Mary Gwendolon] and Browne immediately form a natural rapport as a dynamic double act with excellent comedic timing." - Theatrescenes
"Gwendolon and Renton ... have an excellent rapport. Over the course of the next sixty minutes, comical and wholesome shenanigans ensue, which regularly have the audience raucous with laughter." - Red Raven
As winners of the Late Night Knife Fight improv showdown in Tāmaki Makaurau, 100 Things received professional coaching to develop their original 15 minute show into a 30 minute and then 90 minute show. You'll be seeing the final version after all that testing and development has already happened up in Auckland. Lucky you!
Imagine if the TV show Taskmaster had a baby with the Middleditch and Schwartz Netflix improv comedy special ... that's kind of what 100 Things is like. Our task is to take one hundred things and turn them into one story.
Be a part of history and get a ticket to see the most audience suggestions ever used in an improv show.*
*(as far as we can tell)
WHEN: 16 & 17 March, 2024 7pm
WHERE: YOURS, Morag Place, Dunedin
TICKETS: https://www.dunedinfringe.nz/events/100-things
Only the Stars Know Where Ive Been
An ode to aspirations of lassoing passing asteroids and inflating the moon.
Ctenophora Co. presents Only the Stars Know Where I’ve Been
Only the Stars Know Where I’ve Been is a full-length contemporary dance work. Calling upon dust collectors, it sculpts a vision of an approaching solar cycle. Time darts where it pleases, entangling utopias into a tapestry of sentiment, before the seasons of doubt arrive. Musings of youth somersault over one another and meet dreams of the drowned - a brooding pair navigate the inscriptions on their skin.
This intricate and painterly duet is a reluctant farewell to past versions of yourself. It traverses Queer Temporality in a surreal yet meditative coming-of-age. The dancers observe and mimic each other, in a hypnotic but tender attempt to style their own identities. This whimsical show will entrance you with its tender performance, sculpted choreography, and uncanny world. It conjures an opportunity to introspect and converse with your quiet contemplations.
Ctenophora Co. warmly thanks the team of Wellesley Studios and the Wellesley Studios New Graduate Residency for their generosity and support of this project.
WHEN: 5-9 March 2024, 6.30pm
WHERE: Basement Theatre, Auckland
TICKETS: iTicket
IYKYK - If You Know You Know
Nation-wide tour of longest-running contemporary dance company makes stop in Auckland
Footnote New Zealand Dance, Aotearoa’s leading contemporary dance company, are bringing their critically acclaimed show If You Know You Know, to nine centres across the country, returns to Auckland with two night season at Q Loft.
“IYKYK is a show to inspire the next generation of dancers in New Zealand. It's physical; the dancers never stop moving, showing off their athleticism. It’s dark. There are fight scenes, romance scenes, and a red clock on the wall that is counting us down to the end of the world.” - Anita Hunziker, Artistic Director of Footnote Dance.
With a passion for growing audiences for live dance, Footnote has ensured that this is a dance show everyone will enjoy. “Our mission is to enrich Aotearoa by amplifying dance as an art form. What better way to do that than take the highest quality shows to as many communities as possible?” from the company’s General Manager, Zoë Nicholson.
The tour will begin in Wellington and go on to Palmerston North, Hamilton, Auckland, Whakatāne, Gisborne, Queenstown and Christchurch. The dancers will teach masterclasses to budding young dancers in Auckland, supporting them on their journey.
Founded in 1985, Footnote Dance is Aotearoa’s longest-standing contemporary dance company and is a trailblazer for the dance community.
They support artists, teach dance to thousands of young people across New Zealand, and tour dance works nationally and internationally.
WHEN: 1 & 2 March 8:50pm
WHERE: Q Theatre Loft
TICKETS: https://www.qtheatre.co.nz/shows/iykyk
The Ocean Star
Dolphin Theatre presents The Ocean Star
by Michael Galvin
Directed by John Edwards
Yes, written by our own Michael Galvin (Dr Chris Warner, Shortland Street) The Ocean Star tells the story dog Brian, who just wants a quiet life. He’s content dot stay at home, reviewing the books and CDs that land on his doorstep and watching “Fear Factor” with his son Jay, a short film maker (until the funding dried up). But what lands on his doorstep next is his younger son Ted, and suddenly it’s his own family which is up for review. Ted may or may not be suffering from an incurable disease. Jay seems to be nursing a terrible resentment. Then there’s the small matter of Brian’s agoraphobia.
With a keen sense for the absurd, playwright Michael Galvin has crafted an exquisitely dark and comic play. Your own family never seemed so sane.
WHEN: 1-16 March 2024
WHERE: Dolphin Theatre, Onehunga
TICKETS: https://nz.patronbase.com/_DolphinTheatre/Productions/2401/Performances
Happy Campers
The Awkward Company
presents
‘Happy Campers’.
What better way to rekindle the love than with a… camping trip?
Happy Campers is an hour long comedy-thriller play debuting in the NZ Fringe festival. This is The Awkward Company’s 3rd devised show and is the fourth produced show to be in the Fringe. Their other works include; Nailed It!- a builder play, and Death & Cereal.
Happy Campers follows a city couple as they go for a romantic getaway to the bush to try spark the passion back into their relationship. However, sleeping on the ground was not what Leah was expecting on her promised trip. Hoping for some alone time, they soon find themselves rudely interrupted by a veteran hiker. Who is almost a little too willing to lend a hand in need.
They find they can never get the privacy they both desire at this seemingly crowded site, and all of Kyle’s plans go out the window.
Join the couple as they journey to find what’s missing in their relationship, oh and Mikah’s there too.
WHEN: 21st-24th of February, 9:30pm with an added matinee at 5pm on the 24th.
WHERE: Tapere Iti, Te Auaha. 65 Dixon Street, Wellington.
TICKETS: https://fringe.co.nz/show/happy-campers
Night of the Queer
Luck & Schooney & TAPAC
presents
Night of the Queer
Embark on a stellar journey as Night of the Queer, an immersive cabaret experience, returns for its cosmic sixth year around the Sun.
An Auckland Pride Festival staple, this event promises an out-of-this-world extravaganza that will leave you breathless. Join us at the Galaxies Premier cabaret space station, 'Club 86,' and don your most extravagant outfits, for the night is set to be filled with intergalactic wonders.
This year's lineup includes audience favourites James Luck, A.K.A Elektra Shock, and the dazzling Rebekkah Schoonbeek, who will be joined by the sensational Colette Winks, Ellyce Bisson and Aeyla Duncan, as well as an array of other interstellar talents.
Conceived by the ingenious minds of Luck & Schooney and co-produced with TAPAC, Night of the Queer is a cosmic delight that will have you dancing out of your seats. Prepare to witness a collision of breathtaking entertainment and embrace the vibrancy and diversity of the LGBTQ+ community in this unforgettable celebration of queerness.
WHEN: 1-10 Feburary, 7.00pm
WHERE: TAPAC, Motions Road, AUCKLAND
TICKETS: https://www.iticket.co.nz/events/2024/feb/night-of-the-queer
The Dumb Waiter
Potent Pause Productions presents
The Dumb Waiter
The Dumb Waiter is a brilliant one-act play by British playwright Harold Pinter. A modernist tragicomedy, it tells the story of two assassins while they wait in a basement room for their target to appear. In their apathy, they quarrel about trivial issues and question the hit. Soon their sense of reality begins to falter, and strange events unfold inside the basement. The play’s absurd series of events is characteristic of Pinter’s work, which exposed the irrational features and backward logic of modern stories and dilemmas.
Presented by (potent pause) Productions, who’s relationship to Mr Pinters work continues, is once again proud and chuffed to be performing this great one act play.
Starring Stephen Papps and Michael Lawrence.
WHEN: 1 - 11 Feb 2024
WHERE: Auckland Old Folks Association Hall
TICKETS: https://www.iticket.co.nz/events/2024/feb/the-dumb-waiter#/buy-tickets
HR The Musical
Artsense Productions NZ
presents
HR the Musical
A performance revue like you'll never get in an office tower, this cheeky number takes on the ridiculous and objectionable in the modern workplace in the form of the blues, rap, latin plainchant and more to see what meets expectations and what needs improvement.
The songs, written and composed in a wicked range of genres by Amy Mansfield, play with such hot topics as coworker communications ('Mansplain it to me') and Uniformity and Exclusion ('CEO Song: Okay so I'm white') across the worlds of corporates, public sector and the precarious gig economy.
Drawing on influences as diverse as comedy TV series Crazy Ex-Girlfriend, Charlie Chaplin's Modern Times, Tricia Hersey's Rest is Resistance and David Graeber's Bullshit Jobs, H.R. The Musical will have you laughing with despair, and wondering - along with the rest of the world - when the revolution is coming, then putting it on your to-do list.
The cast includes Mika Austin, the critically acclaimed darling of Artsense Productions' I Didn't Invite You Here to Lecture Me and you are [not] alone here, along with the madly talented Zoe Triggs and Lizzie Buckton, who'll sing, dance and play various blowable and plucky instruments throughout.
Gather your co-workers and your boss and get to this work!
Development audiences had this to say:
“Really funny and entertaining”
“Confrontingly honest”
“Characters I recognised and could identify with”
“So much genius in there”
“I loved every minute!”
WHEN: 1 - 3 Feburary, 7pm
WHERE: Q Theatre, AUCKLAND
TICKETS: SOLD OUT
Twisted the Musical
Twisted the Musical produced by Dallow Productions
Hop on your flying carpet, because this musical parody retells the classic tale of Aladdin... from the villain's point of view! Long ago in a Magic Kingdom, one misunderstood Royal Vizier will go on a quest to save his city from its bumbling sultan, an invading prince, and the most notorious thief to ever live! With the help of the Kingdom's free-spirited, teenage Princess, the Vizier must find a magical lamp containing a wish-granting Djinn (who's really funny, by the way) and defeat the city's most-wanted criminal... Aladdin! This musical adventure celebrates and lovingly pokes fun at everyone's favorite series of hand-drawn, animated films. Due to content this show is restricted to ages 14 and up.
WHEN: 31 Jan - 10 Feb
WHERE: Pitt Street Theatre
TICKETS: https://www.ticketor.com
The Auckland International Buskers Festival
Auckland International Buskers Festival 2024
👉 For the performer lineup, schedule and festival map, visit www.aucklandbuskersfestival.co.nz
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
The Auckland International Buskers Festival returns to Auckland’s CBD and Waterfront for another year, with four full days of crowd-pleasing delights from Friday 26th – Monday 29th January 2024. 🎪
🤹♀️Seven extraordinary performers will come from across the globe with thrilling performances that have entertained crowds from Germany to Japan, and now Auckland.
🌏 The festival will be jam packed full of energetic, spellbinding tricks, stunts and displays of balancing acts, acrobatic, magic, rola bola, diabolero, dance, circus, comedy, cyr wheel and so much more!
🤩For a weekend full of jaw-dropping talent, be sure to save the date and your Christmas cash, and check back on the Auckland International Buskers Festival website for the complete schedule: www.aucklandbuskersfestival.co.nz
Dominic Blaazer & SoLo
Dominic Blaazer & SoLo.
After ten years working together, we thought it was time to share.
Join us for these very special singer/songwriter evenings.
Some of it solo, some together.
New songs, old songs, surprise songs.
Two intimate twilight performances at the Garnet Station Tiny Theatre.
Tickets are GA (general admittance), doors at 7.30, music at 8.
Get there early, have a pre-show drink and a pizza dinner. You know we would.
All-ages.
dominicblaazer.net
WHEN: Saturday 9th November
WHERE: Garnet Station, Auckland
TICKETS: https://www.undertheradar.co.nz/ticket/22189/Dominic-Blaazer--SoLo.utr