New Zealand Theatre Newsroom

Mamma Mia! is a jukebox musical featuring the timeless songs of the legendary Swedish pop group ABBA. It is set on a picturesque Greek island and tells the story of a young bride-to-be, her mother and three possible fathers.

When you see a WHODUNNIT – what do you hope for? Intrigue, atmosphere, mystery, a chance to become the detective yourself?

Liv Tennet's new dance show, FOR YOU TO KNOW AND ME TO FIND OUT, explores personal storytelling with dramaturgy by Barnie Duncan and music supervision by Tom Broome. Learn how to purchase tickets.

The Lord of the Rings – A Musical Tale will premiere in Middle-earth when this eagerly awaited production opens for a strictly limited season at The Civic, Auckland from November 5th.

The Other Side is Kaha's third production, following Sunset Boulevard and Pride and Prejudice. While the two previous shows are well known, Pride and Prejudice was changed up for audiences with inclusion of Carpenters songs to the play. An interesting idea which I sadly did not get to see.

An outstanding play performed by an outstanding cast

“Sense and Sensibility” is a classic novel by Jane Austen, published anonymously in three volumes in 1811. It offers a vivid depiction of 19th-century middle-class life in England, following the romantic relationships of Elinor and Marianne Dashwood.

Something Rotten! premiered on Broadway in 2015 and was nominated for ten Tony Awards. It is the story of the Bottom brothers, Nick and Nigel, who strive for success in the theatrical world as they compete with their incredibly popular competitor, one William Shakespeare. Desperate to out-Bard the Bard, Nick consults a soothsayer and learns that the next big thing in theatre will be a MUSICAL—a play where 'an actor is saying his lines, and out of nowhere he just starts singing.'

Kathryn Burnett's insightful script, coupled with Jodie Rimmer’s extraordinary performance, makes this show a must-see for anyone seeking poignant reflections on resilience, identity, and the pursuit of happiness. And a damn good belly-aching laugh.

Looking for family theatre – for the July holidays – this is definitely worth investigating. Get along on this exciting journey! Even if you’re not usually live theatre goers, this latest treat at HOWICK LITTLE THEATRE will definitely appeal to school aged children, parents and grandparents… and it’s educational too.

What did our critic think of FIVE GO ON AN ADVENTURE at Pumphouse Theatre, Auckland?

The Prom is a musical with music by Matthew Sklar, lyrics by Chad Beguelin and a book by Bob Martin and Beguelin. The story follows four Broadway actors who travel to the conservative town of Edgewater, Indiana, to help a lesbian student who has been banned from bringing her girlfriend to the high school prom.

When Harriet met Sally by Cherol Filbee is a short one act play that centres on two main characters, Sally a florist who is about to go on a short holiday with her new man and Harriet, his wife.

Heartbreak Hotel is the latest offering by EBKM, Eleanor Bishop and Karin McCracken who have worked together since 2017 and have written a number of plays, notably Jane Doe and Body Double, both award winning productions.

Michael Hurst’s direction ensures that the play’s heavy themes are expertly managed, bringing a sharp focus to Tessa's internal and external battles. The staging is both minimalist and effective, allowing the strength of the script and the power of Woodhouse’s performance to shine through. 

A great script and dependable cast make this show well worth seeing

Today I spent an enjoyable couple of hours talking to one of Wellingtons most recognised music teachers, Jane Keller. She is well known in the region as not only an excellent vocal coach, but extending that skill by helping with character development and performance.

Therapy is  musical comedy written and performed by Chelsea McRae, with supporting music composed and performed by Mario Sadra- de Jong, won the NZ Touring Award at the Dunedin Fringe Festival and was also nominated for the Comedy Award.  Before entering the theatre, a sign warns that the show discusses mental illness, suicide, sexual assault, and grief.

Flawed but ultimately enjoyable concept

Handbagged is coming to Gryphon Theatre in July. Written by Moira Buffini, the production is directed by Mary Coffey.

A collaboration that has led to a highly successful and entertaining production

What did our critic think of AURELIA at Howick Little THEATRE?

A great show for the school holidays- with great values, humour, colour and with the added bonus of a real Toto  dog on stage- what more could you want?

Watching the future of theatre here in Wellington, I see we will be well served in the future.

What did our critic think of NATASHA, PIERRE AND THE GREAT COMET OF 1812 from Witch Music Theatre?