Austin Harrison We are coming to the end of a year which has been hard on everyone, but few more so than our arts communities (shout out to our healthcare workers who definitely take the top spot for most rubbish year, y’all are awesome!!). On Sunday night though, you’d hardly have known how exhausted everyone is feeling. As we enter the Hannah Playhouse for this year’s Wellington Theatre Awards, the vibes are jubilant, the spirits are high and there is much to celebrate!!
Sean Burnett Dugdale-Martin Hosted and created by the one and only, unabashed, cucumber-fueled, award-winning comedy circus power trio that is Laser Kiwi, as seen on stage, screen, streets and theatres around Aotearoa. Famous for their unique style of surreal sketch circus, a combination which has taken them around the world multiple times.
Sean Burnett Dugdale-Martin Confessions of an Aerobics Instructor is a high-octane workout of belly laughs. Joana Simmons, who plays her aerobics alter ego, Joy, is airing her work out and work stories as an aerobics instructor and exercising all sorts of demons from body image to active wear. Direction from Greenroom Award winner, Elizabeth Dawson-Smith (Miss Friby, Australia) and songs by Jamie Burgess, the show features original songs, high-powered pop and rock staples and full power aerobics.
Emilie Hope I’m so glad to live in a time where queer narratives are coming to the forefront of our stories. Especially family friendly ones that focus on queer joy. The Princess and The Knight, written and produced by Brie Keatley, is one of those stories. Following Princess Ada (Angela Pelham) as she finds her true love, a knight in leather armour, Ellis (India Worsnop) and avoids marriage with her betrothed, Lysander (Daniel Nodder) and the villain Nyx (Lincoln Swinerd). This campy and fun play has some excellent snappy lines and keeps us engaged right the way through – a testament to the actor’s comedic timing and their director Katie Hill.
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