ATTITUDE AWARDS BEGIN SEARCH FOR THIS YEAR’S UNSUNG HEROES

CELEBRATING ACHIEVEMENTS IN NEW ZEALAND’S DISABILITY COMMUNITY

Pictured: Last year’s Attitude ACC Supreme Award winner Martine Abel-Williamson

Today the Attitude Awards begin the hunt for this year’s high achievers who are taking on the world and its perception of disability.
 
With nominations open until Monday 22nd July, the Attitude Awards celebrate the achievements and excellence of New Zealanders living with disabilities, recognising athletes, employers, employees, young people and game-changers.
 
2018’s Attitude ACC Supreme Award winner was Martine Abel-Williamson, who was recognised for her longstanding support and advocacy for the New Zealand blind community. Martine (47) is blind and has been an advocate, lecturer and policy advisor for New Zealand’s disability sector for more than 20 years. She emotionally accepted the top award in November last year in front of a sell-out crowd of family, friends and supporters from across the disability community.
 
Now in its 12th year, the Attitude Awards have nine categories including Youth Spirit, Leadership, Support Superstar, Employer and Entrepreneur Award. This year’s awards will take place on Friday 22nd November with a black-tie gala dinner at Auckland’s Sky City.
 
Chair of the Attitude Trust and former captain of the New Zealand Wheel Blacks, Dan Buckingham, says the annual awards are one of a kind:
 
“The Attitude Awards are incredibly special, celebrating the outstanding stories and successes of New Zealanders living with disabilities. Year after year, our finalists bring tales of tenacity and drive, shifting perceptions about this diverse sector of society. The Awards are a chance to recognise our unsung heroes. We’d love for Kiwis to put forward friends, co-workers, family members and people from their community who they think deserve recognition at the 2019 Attitude Awards.” 
 
2018 winners also included Entrepreneur Award-winner fashion designer Cruze Kapa, Para-climber Rachel Maia who took home the Emerging Athlete Award, and Joanne Schoales and Dayaram Ganda from BP2go in Greymouth who were awarded the Attitude ACC Employer Award.
 
ACC is once again principal sponsor for the awards. ACC Chief Executive Scott Pickering commented: “The Attitude Awards are a great opportunity to recognise and reflect on the huge contribution Kiwis with disabilities make to our society. We’re proud sponsors who stand in awe at the remarkable achievements these awards celebrate. I encourage people to nominate friends, family, employers, and colleagues for an Attitude Award and to be part of this wonderful event.”
 
Other sponsors and supporters for the awards are The Lion Foundation, Air New Zealand, Barfoot and Thompson, Datacom, APM, Ricoh, Drake Medox, Ministry of Health and HealthCare NZ.
 
With thanks to NZ on Air, the Attitude Awards will air as an hour-long television special on TVNZ1, packed with entertainment, winners, and highlights from the night.
 
For nomination information and entry forms go to www.attitudeawards.org. Nominations close on Monday 22nd July and finalists will be announced in late  August. Winners will be unveiled at a glitzy black-tie gala for more than 600 people on Friday November 22ndNovember at Auckland’s Sky City.
 
The nine categories are: Youth Spirit, Spirit of Attitude, Support Superstar, Leadership, Paralympian of the Decade, Employee of the Year, Making a Difference, Entrepreneur and Attitude ACC Employer Award.

TRAILER RELEASED FOR NEW KIWI FILM ‘HERBS: SONGS OF FREEDOM’

FILM STEPS BACK IN TIME TO CELEBRATE HERBS AND THEIR ICONIC SOUND

The trailer for local film HERBS: Songs of Freedom has been released today casting a loving and admiring eye on iconic Kiwi band Herbs. The film will receive its world premiere at the New Zealand International Film Festival at The Civic in Auckland on August 3rd ahead of a nationwide general release on August 15th.
 
Directed by Tearepa Kahi (Poi E: The Story of Our Song), HERBS: Songs of Freedom brings together the band’s key living members in an emotional round of interviews, jams and memories culminating in a reunion concert. 40 years on from the formation of the band in the heat of the 1970s Dawn Raids and the Bastion Point occupation, the film documents the band in the context of music as social activism.
 
HERBS: Songs of Freedom explores the success of Herbs, the much-loved pioneers of Pacific Reggae with interviews with band members past and present, as well as exclusive full-length concert footage from the reunion show. The band were creators of uniquely Kiwi protest songs ‘French Letter’, the classic ‘Sensitive to a Smile’ and garage-party good-times anthem ‘Long Ago’.
 
Director Tearepa Kahi commented on the film: “When I grew up, Herbs represented a new voice – they brought fresh narratives and choruses to the front line of New Zealand. Their brand of reggae had widespread popular appeal, but they weren’t just a good time, they opened our eyes to what was really happening. It's one thing to hold a placard, chant and march against a dragon. It's another to pick up red guitar and slay the dragon with reggae. And that's Herbs."

INTIMATE DAN CARTER FILM SET FOR RELEASE THIS AUGUST

An intimate film about All Blacks legend Dan Carter, produced by Pitch Productions, will be released in cinemas nationwide on Thursday 29th August, ahead of the Rugby World Cup.
 
Shot in Europe, Japan and New Zealand, the all-access film reveals a side to global superstar Dan Carter that has never been seen before, opening the door to Carter’s private life and featuring sit-down interviews with his Black Sticks wife Honor Carterand other family members.
 
“It’s definitely more of myself than I’ve been comfortable giving in the past. I’ve been incredibly lucky in my life with the opportunities I’ve been given, but I’ve also had some dark times along the way,” commented Dan Carter. “I hope audiences take away from the film that you can reach your goals no matter where you come from and what you come up against.”
 
The film also exposes the physical and mental torment of Rugby World Cup tournaments as Carter prepares for his final quest in the iconic black jersey.
 
A host of international rugby stars are featured, including Richie McCaw, Jonny Wilkinson and Beauden Barrett, providing an in-depth understanding of Carter – both as the rugby player and the man.
 
Director Luke Mellows commented on the project: “A number of the people we spoke to during filming said the same thing - the public have seen a lot of Dan, but very few feel like they know the real Dan Carter. I think Dan has overcome a lot more than people realise. Seeing the sacrifices he’s made makes you further appreciate the remarkable things he has achieved over the course of his career.”
 
Rialto, who are distributing the film in New Zealand and Australia, expect significant interest from local audiences.
 
“Dan Carter is one of New Zealand’s few sporting stars who is recognised globally,” said Rialto CEO Kelly Rogers. “With the 2019 Rugby World Cup starting later that month we think the New Zealand public, particularly rugby fans, will be excited to see the inside story of one of the greats of the game.”
 
Music for the film was composed by Nick McCabe, formerly of English rock band The Verve. An official title and trailer will be released in the coming weeks. The Dan Carter film will be released in cinemas across New Zealand just in time for Father’s Day weekend.

THE GROUNDBREAKING SMASH HIT, GREEN DAY’S ‘AMERICAN IDIOT’ TO PLAY AUCKLAND THIS OCTOBER

Fresh from a critically acclaimed West End run and a sell-out UK Tour, Green Day’s explosive Tony Award winning rock musical, American Idiot will play Auckland’s Civic Theatre this October.
 
Featuring the legendary music of Green Day with the lyrics of its lead singer Billie Joe Armstrong, American Idiot is the story of three boyhood friends, each searching for meaning in a post 9/11 world. This is a story of youthful disillusion and the mistrust of society and government, a sentiment that has never been more current, both abroad and locally. This theme was evidenced in New Zealand recently by the mobilisation of tens of thousands of school aged Kiwis protesting climate change.
 
American Idiot is the winner of two Tony Awards and the 2010 Grammy Award winner for Best Musical Show Album. It was described by Green Day’s frontman Billie Joe Armstrong as a ‘coming of age in a politically-driven climate’.
 
The musical contains the band’s hit songs including ‘Boulevard of Broken Dreams’, ‘21 Guns’, ‘Wake Me Up When September Ends’, ‘Holiday’ and the blockbuster title track ‘American Idiot’ from Green Day’s 2004 Grammy Award-winning, multi-platinum album. Also featured are several songs from Green Day’s 2009 release ‘21st Century Breakdown’, and an unreleased love song, ‘When It’s Time’.
 
A 15 strong UK cast plus a 4 piece live band will take the stage in Auckland with key castings to be announced shortly. 

American Idiot is directed and choreographed by Racky Plews with musical supervision by Richard Morris, sound by Chris Whybrow and lighting by Tim Deiling. The production is produced by Selladoor Worldwide and presented by arrangement with Music Theatre International Limited and Stetson Group.
 
American Idiot will open on Thursday 10th October for a strictly limited season. Tickets are on sale from Ticketmaster from Thursday 13th June with a special My Ticketmaster and Auckland Live presale from Wednesday 12th June. American Idiot contains strong language and drug references; not suitable for under 14’s.

INTERNATIONAL S-X OPEN SUPERCROSS EVENT RETURNS TO AUCKLAND THIS NOVEMBER

The largest ever international Supercross and off-road motorcycling event to hit New Zealand shores returns once more in 2019 with the Monster Energy S-X Open Auckland heading to Mount Smart Stadium on November 16.

Featuring the world’s best riders going head-to-head on a full-sized World Championship style Supercross track and the greatest Freestyle Motocross (FMX) riders on the planet, live music and entertainment, stunning pyrotechnics, junior and celebrity races, plus FMX best-trick and best-whip competitions; the Monster Energy S-X Open is an incredible entertainment spectacle for all ages.

The event will also create history as it becomes the fourth official round of the highly contested Australian Supercross Championship when teams head across the ditch to compete inside the 25,000 seat capacity Mount Smart Stadium.

The record-breaking success of the 2018 event was unprecedented, with a crowd of over 22,500 attending Auckland’s Mt Smart Stadium, making it the biggest international Supercross event to ever take place on Kiwi soil and ultimately putting the country on the world Supercross map.

The S-X Open Auckland database pre-sale commences June 20 from 12pm NZT with public on-sale becoming available from June 26 12pm NZT via Ticketmaster, tickets start from $39.00*.

For more information and to access exclusive news and pre-sale tickets sign up to the database at sxopen.com

The Monster Energy S-X Open Auckland forms part of the 2019 S-X Open International FIM Oceania Supercross Championship, the largest international Supercross Championship outside of the USA and second behind only the World Championship, with S-X Open Auckland kicking off the series, as the opening round.

This year the event is set to feature even more of the world’s best against New Zealand’s dirt bike heroes.

This year will see the 2018 World Supercross Champion Jason Anderson gear up for the S-X Open Auckland as he looks to take down two-time World Champion and defending S-X Open Auckland Champion Chad Reed - with both World Supercross Champions locked in to race at Mount Smart Stadium on November 16.

Anderson will head to New Zealand for the first time ever, which he says will be a fresh addition to his offseason training and is keen to win the title of FIM Oceania Champion.

“I’m super excited to be heading to the S-X Open Auckland, it will be my first time to New Zealand, I saw it last year and it seemed like a really epic event,” Anderson said. “I only get to choose a select few events to race at in the offseason so heading to Auckland will keep my offseason interesting, and to win the FIM Oceania Supercross crown would be sweet, it would be another one to add to the trophy case, it’s one I don’t have and look forward to putting it up there. Competing against Reedy, I know he is a tough competitor, no matter how old he gets he's always fighting and he's always gnarly, and he definitely won't make it easy on me, and I know it’s going to be a good battle and a fun race.”

Chad Reed left the entire field in his wake winning all three feature races at the inaugural Monster Energy S-X Open Auckland, to make a remarkable run to victory on the night and says getting the opportunity to go up against Anderson and more of the world’s best riders, helps with his preparation for the 2020 World Supercross Championship.

“New Zealand this year, having Jason [Anderson] also going after the FIM Oceania Championship actually excites me, as it will help my preparation for the 2020 season. Auckland’s Mt Smart Stadium gives you a good replication of the gate drops and the tracks I’ll be racing in 2020 [in the World Championship]” Reed said.

Reed also hopes to retain his FIM Oceania crown and says he’s heading to New Zealand better prepared than last year.

“It’s important to retain your championship, and this year to win the second FIM Oceania Championship would be a huge honour. I think we’ll have a much better preparation and be able to come out swinging in New Zealand. said Reed. “Fans in Auckland last year were unbelievable, despite the challenging conditions of the weather, I had such a great time, and the Supercross was amazing, you couldn’t have asked for a better night of racing.”

The 2019 Monster Energy S-X Open Auckland is proudly supported by Auckland Tourism Events & Economic Development (ATEED) and Monster Energy. 

Auckland Tourism, Events and Economic Development (ATEED) Head of Major Events Stuart Turner says, “We are thrilled to see the return of Monster Energy S-X Open Auckland after such a successful event last year. This event adds real buzz and excitement to our growing calendar and is a real drawcard for visitors and locals alike.”

Motorcycling New Zealand’s General Manager Virginia Henderson is excited to see the return of the event in 2019.

“We’re thrilled to see the S-X Open Supercross FIM Oceania Championship return to New Zealand as this event showcases top-level Supercross riders to our future stars.”

Stay tuned to S-X Open Supercross (@sxopensupercross) on social media for more truly amazing announcements that are sure to blow New Zealand fans away in 2019.

KRIS KRISTOFFERSON & THE STRANGERS RETURN TO NZ

THE POET, STORYTELLER, ESTEEMED ACTOR AND COUNTRY MUSIC SUPERSTAR RETURNS TO NEW ZEALAND 

KRIS KRISTOFFERSON & THE STRANGERS 
TOURING OCT 2019, TICKETS ON SALE FROM 17 JUNE, 2019 

Watch Kris and guests perform Sunday Morning' Comin' Down HERE: 

One World Entertainment is proud to announce the awaited return of the legendary Kris Kristofferson & The Strangers to New Zealand. The three time Grammy winner, Rhodes scholar, actor and undisputed country music living legend kicks off his tour in Dunedin on October 8th before traveling to Christchurch, Wellington, Palmerston North, ending in Auckland on October 13th. Tickets are on sale from 17th June.  

Wednesday 8th October                 Dunedin                      Regent Theatre
Friday 11th October                       Wellington                   Michael Fowler Centre
Saturday 12th October                   Palmerston North         Regent Theatre
Sunday 13th October                     Auckland                     Logan Campbell Centre
 
Kris will be accompanied on stage by The Strangers.  One of country music favourite bands, The Strangers are best known as the back-up band for singer-songwriter Merle Haggard. Coming to New Zealand will be Scott Joss (fiddle and vocals), Doug Colosio (keyboards & vocals) and Jeff Ingraham (drums).  

Kris Kristofferson has accomplished more in his lifetime than most performers can ever dream. He has recorded over 30 albums throughout his career and written some of the greatest songs of all time, including Me and Bobby McGee, Help Me Make It Through the Night, Sunday Morning Coming Down and For the Good Times.  Artists who have recorded and achieved chart success with a song written or co-written by Kristofferson include Jerry Lee Lewis, Waylon Jennings, Johnny Cash and Janis Joplin, who recorded Me and Bobby McGee – a song forever linked to Janis. By 1987, it was estimated that more than 450 artists had recorded Kristofferson's compositions. 

He is an award-winning actor and appeared in over 70s films – include his Golden Globe winning performance in the 1976 version of A Star Is Born, alongside Barbra Streisand.  Other films include Blade trilogy, Lone Star, A Soldier's Daughter Never Cries, Alice Doesn't Live Here Anymore, Blume In Love, Cisco Pike, and Pat Garrett and Billy the Kid. Recent films include Fast Food Nation, Dreamer: Inspired By A True Story, The Jacket, Silver City, He's Just Not That In To You, and Dolphin Tale.

Music fans will not want to miss the opportunity to see Country Music Hall of Fame’s Kris Kristofferson and The Strangers live on stage performing the hits from the Kristofferson songbook.  

KRIS KRISTOFFERSON AND THE STRANGERS - NZ TOUR 2019
Presale tickets on sale from June 6th with general tickets on sale from June 17

TASH SULTANA RETURNS TO PLAY SPARK ARENA THIS NOVEMBER

Tash Sultana announces a return to New Zealand as part of the ‘Flow State World Tour'. Established as a live favourite with New Zealand audiences after a sold-out 2018 tour and festival sets over the past twelve months, Tash will play an all ages headline show at Auckland’s Spark Arena, Friday November 22nd.
 
The one person powerhouse is an explosive live artist who has commanded global attention since their homemade videos went viral. Started out playing open mic nights on a fake ID and busking on the streets of Melbourne, Tash is selling out every headline show, from theatres to arenas across multiple countries and playing dozens of high-profile festivals around the globe. Recent accolades include reaching over 500M streams online, an ARIA award for Blues and Roots Album of The Year with ‘Flow State’ and the smash single ‘Jungle’ coming in at #3 in triple j’s Hottest 100. Tash’s new single ‘Can’t Buy Happiness’ and album ‘Flow State’ is out now.
 
Tickets for the all-ages show are on sale from 9am, Monday May 20th from Ticketmaster. Fans can get presale access from 9am Wednesday May 22nd via the Tash Sultana Fan Club.

LONELY LANDS, CRS & LEMON TREE PRESENTS TASH SULTANA
FRIDAY 22ND NOVEMBER
SPARK ARENA

Tickets are on sale from 9am, Monday May 20th from Ticketmaster
Tash Sultana Pre-sale: 9am, Wednesday May 15th from the Tash Sultana Fab Club. 
 
www.tashsultana.com

RED BULL PRESENTS: YEARS GONE BY – A UNIQUE FAMILY AFFAIR

A unique musical offering designed to offer a bridge between generations, Red Bull has announced its latest musical offering ‘RED BULL PRESENTS: YEARS GONE BY’ curated by long-time partner, Tom Scott from Avantdale Bowling Club.
 
This show will feature never seen before pairings of some of NZs most well-known musicians collaborating with talented members of their families across two intimate gigs in Auckland and Wellington on Friday 17th May and Saturday 18th May.
 
Curator Tom Scott explains the vision for this unique gig: “When I was younger music was the only language I could speak to my pops in. When the roles are twisted, that’s when you’re really creating something and it’s that magic I want to put on stage for this show. I want the gig to act as some kind of bridge between generations. I want to blur the spectrum. Remind all that relevance is relative”
 
Acts confirmed for these unique gigs span the length of the musical genre and decades. Set to perform in Auckland on Friday 17th May is retro-futuristic psych-soul artist Troy Kingi and his guitarist nephew Rawiri Webb, father and daughter duo Soraya LaPread and Ron LaPread, legendary former guitarist of The Commodores, drummer-extraordinaire Julien Dyne and his double bassist dad Paul Dyne, and Tom Scott himself with his father Peter.
 
The following night in Wellington on Saturday May 18th will again see Troy Kingi and Rawiri Webb on stage, joined by psychedelic soul singer MaraTK and his father Billy TK, Fat Freddy’s Drop’s Joe Lindsay and Benny Salvador - Joe’s rising DJ son, emerging rap talent Vayne and her cousin Fiveofive, and a solo Tom Scott.
 
Audiences are invited to RSVP for this show now from redbull.co.nz/music for a reduced ticket price of $15, door sales will also be available at the venue for $25
 
RSVP NOW:
AKL - https://win.gs/2vhZKCx
WLG - https://win.gs/2W30TcP
 
FOLLOW THE EVENT ON FACEBOOK
AKL – https://www.facebook.com/events/290993278460701/
WLG – https://www.facebook.com/events/2212223382439048/

WELLINGTON SHOW SATURDAY 18TH MAY
Troy Kingi and Rawiri Webb
Mara TK and Billy TK
Joe Lindsay and Benny Salvadore
Vayne and Fiveofive
Tom Scott

AUCKLAND SHOW FRIDAY 17TH MAY
Troy Kingi and Rawiri Webb
Soraya LaPread and Ron LaPread
Julien Dyne and Paul Dyne
Tom Scott and Peter Scott

AUCKLAND LIVE’S CABARET SEASON TAKES OVER THE ICONIC CIVIC JUNE 11TH – 16TH

Auckland’s grand dame of cabaret and musical theatre, The Civic, plays host to a stellar line-up of international cabaret stars and top Kiwi performers this June, when the red carpet is rolled out for the fifth Auckland Live Cabaret Season.
 
With The Civic celebrating its 90th birthday this year, the season’s eclectic programme is the perfect party starter, starring nine sumptuous shows featuring cabaret, musical theatre and immersive experiences celebrating inclusivity, gender fluidity, dance and the best in entertainment after dark.
 
The iconic Civic has a rich history of cabaret and musical theatre dating back to the 1920s, peaking during the Second World War when Freda Stark, a clerical worker by day, would entertain the troops at night in the Wintergarden. Dancing in just a feather headdress and not much else, Freda was an icon during the wartime years and her legacy lives on as the venue invokes her spirit and celebrates a week of sassy, sexy and cheeky entertainment.
 
The 2019 Auckland Live Cabaret Season kicks off with the Auckland Philharmonia Orchestra’s The NZ Mix Tape. This one-off show is a celebration of the Kiwi music we know and love, featuring talented NZ musicians Liam Finn, Nadia Reid and Anna Coddington performing with the full 72-piece orchestra. The set list includes songs from some of our greatest songwriters including Don McGlashan, Supergroove, Crowded House, Dave Dobbyn and Lorde, reflecting who we are and where we live.
 
Making his New Zealand debut, Auckland Live proudly presents Reuben Kaye, international cabaret superstar, and the undeniably delightful face of the festival, Reuben will be holding court across the week in various guises before taking to the mainstage with his full-length show.
 
Hailed by Melbourne’s Herald Sun as ‘the quintessential cabaret performer’, Reuben promises an explosion of high energy, high camp, big notes and filthy humour – your perfect cabaret combo.
 
Premiering on June 11 is Delicious Oblivion, a brand-new work starring Jennifer Ward-Lealand and directed by Shane Bosher, in which the pair explore the biting musical experience of subversive cabaret wunderkind Kurt Weill and his contemporaries in this wild rejig of the Weimar songbook.
 
The Māori Sidesteps hit the Wintergarden stage on June 12 for their ‘belly laughing, thought-provoking and sing-a-longy’ one-night-only performance that deliverers a fresh and enlightening perspective of the evolution of the Māori showband. 
 
Mid-week, Pasifika gender fluid creatives Fine Fatale unveil The Heels are Alive, a fierce night of diva songs and vogue-stomping dance that will titillate the soul and excite the spirit with its contemporary embodiment of Pasifika pride.
 
The Civic herself takes centre stage from June 13, when Barbarian Production’s all-new Grand Opening tour takes audiences behind the velvet curtain to reveal the grandeur, the gossip and a glimpse of what makes the heritage venue tick, in an immersive, surprising and satisfying up-close-and-personal experience with the much-loved entertainment icon.
 
Making their NZ debut on June 13 is YUMMY Productions’ powerhouse cabaret show taking over at the Wintergarden. A legend in the international underground cabaret scene, YUMMY’s breath-taking drag, music, circus, and burlesque guarantees an outrageous night of fun. 
 
Battle Chorus brings strangers together for an unforgettable night of group harmonies and power ballads on June 14 in a worldwide phenomenon that’s taken social media by storm. Join a team lead by choirmasters Rutene Spooner and Jason Te Mete, and battle-off in a night of song that will determine which choir will be crowned the victor.  
 
From the past to the future: June 16 sees a special performance by Aotearoa’s leading music theatre performers, when the New Zealand Music Theatre Company steps on stage in the Wintergarden, showcasing a stunning line-up of contemporary songs written by some of the country’s most recognisable composers and lyricists.
 
In addition to the season’s high voltage performances and on-stage antics, revellers will be vying to gain entrance to the perennially popular pop-up Piano Bar – a speakeasy of uncommon delight, tucked away somewhere secret, where after hours performers, audiences, artists and their entourages are encouraged to let loose and indulge in the sexy, scintillating and scandalous world of cabaret.

For full information about the Auckland Live Cabaret Season, click here.

ALL STAR CAST ASSEMBLE FOR PASIFIKA ACTION FILM

An all-star Pasifika and Māori cast whose international credits stretch across Alien: Covenant, Marco Polo, Star Wars, The Matrix Reloaded, Mortal Engines and Battleship have assembled in Tāmaki Makaurau for a brand-new action film, the directorial debut of director Kiel McNaughton – The Legend of Baron To’a.
 
Uli Latukefu (Alien: Covenant, Marco Polo), Nathaniel Lees (The Matrix Reloaded), Jay Laga’aia (Star Wars), John Tui (Battleship, Hobbs & Shaw), Shortland Street alumni Shavaughn Ruakere and Pua Magasiva, and Fasitua Amosa (Auckland Daze, Fresh Eggs) will star in the film which tells the story of a Tongan entrepreneur who returns to his old neighbourhood and inadvertently causes the theft of his late father’s valued pro wrestling title belt by some ruthless gangsters. When negotiation and diplomacy fail to get it back, he is forced to embrace his father’s legacy to reclaim the title.
 
“The all-star brown cast we have assembled for this film is amazing. I’ve always wanted my first feature to be an action film and with a great script from writer, John Argall, and some amazing action sequences put together by our world-class local crew, this film is going to be a lot of fun. I can’t wait to bring it to life.” said McNaughton.

The Legend of Baron To’a is produced by Kerry Warkia under the Brown Sugar Apple Grunt banner, McNaughton and Warkia are the pair responsible for the critically acclaimed films Waru and Vai and TV series, Auckland Daze, This is Piki and Find Me A Maori Bride.
 
The production also brings together a world renowned Kiwi stunt team lead by Augie Davis (Adrift, The Meg, Pete’s Dragon) and Andy Stehlin (X Men: Dark Phoenix, Hacksaw Ridge). 

FOLLOW THE FILM ON SOCIAL BELOW: 
FACEBOOK // INSTAGRAM 

'FOALS' ANNOUNCE NEW ZEALAND SPLENDOUR IN THE GRASS SIDESHOW

SECRET SOUNDS PRESENTS
2019 SPLENDOUR IN THE GRASS SIDESHOW

PRE-SALE: 9AM MON 15 APR – 8AM TUE 16 APR LOCAL TIME
GENERAL SALES: 9AM TUE 16 APR LOCAL TIME
SIGN UP TO THE SECRET SOUNDS MAILING LIST FOR PRE-SALE ACCESS
scrtsnds.co/SITGsideshows19

FOALS

An absolute math-rock juggernaut, FOALS is coming to New Zealand for one show at the Auckland Town Hall on Friday July 12 in the middle of a creative frenzy that has produced not one, but two new records. Everything Not Saved Will Be Lost (Part 1) was released in March, with Part 2 to follow later this year, signalling a return to the spasmodic angles of their debut Antidotes while simultaneously going further off-base than ever before.

From playing chaotic house parties in Oxford to becoming major festival headliners across Europe, Foals’ trajectory has been remarkable. Always eager to break boundaries, Foals’ new album ‘Everything Not Saved Will Be Lost – Part 1’ is the most ambitious statement of their career. It entered the UK charts at #2, with many critics tipping it as a contender for album of the year.

The band – Yannis Philippakis (vocals/guitar), Jimmy Smith (guitar), Jack Bevan (drums) and Edwin Congreave (keys) –will release ‘Part 2’ in the autumn.

“They’re two halves of the same locket,” explains Philippakis. “They can be listened to and appreciated individually, but fundamentally they are companion pieces.”

Foals have earned critical acclaim and fan devotion in equal measure, with highlights including Best Live Act at the Q Awards, Best Album at the NME Awards, 1.7 million album sales, and over half a billion streams at Spotify since 2015.

Their first visit to New Zealand since 2013, Foals will perform to Kiwi fans after headlining Australia’s Splendour in the Grass.

FRI 12 JULY · TOWN HALL · AUCKLAND

SECRET SOUNDS PRESENTS
FOALS

PRE-SALE: 9AM MON 15 APR – 8AM TUE 16 APR LOCAL TIME
GENERAL SALES: 9AM TUE 16 APR LOCAL TIME
SIGN UP TO THE SECRET SOUNDS MAILING LIST FOR PRE-SALE ACCESS
scrtsnds.co/SITGsideshows19

LIVE NATION & SECRET SOUNDS PRESENT
RUEL

- Bringing his Painkiller Tour to New Zealand - 

Vocal prodigy RUEL is returning to New Zealand for one show in Auckland at the Bruce Mason Centre on May 24. Counting Elton John and Khalid among his fans, RUEL is taking the globe by storm, smashing show records, and he’s only 16 years old. 

Tickets for go on sale at 11am Friday, April 12.

My Live Nation members can secure tickets first during the exclusive pre-sale beginning 4pm Thursday April 11 until 9am Friday, April 12. 

Fans who sign up to the Audience Republic pre-sale beginning 4pm Thursday April 11 until 9am Friday, April 12 will get the chance to win a meet and greet + tickets. 

A transcendent new star on an unstoppable trajectory, the London-born, Sydney-based songwriter found himself on the ARIA podium as he took out the 2018 Breakthrough Artist gong for his soul-soaked banger ‘Dazed and Confused’, which landed in in triple j’s Hottest 100 alongside ‘Younger’, the youngest ever artist to win the coveted award.
 
Both tunes, taken from his ubiquitous debut EP Ready (+ 100 million global streams), were released amongst a tidal wave of hype which began to swell almost immediately around this young singer-songwriter as his extraordinary soul-tinged voice began to filter out.
 
His Like a Version rendition on triple j of Jack Garratt’s ‘Weathered’ alongside world-class producer and longtime mentor ‘M-Phazes’, showcased his undeniable singing chops and forced folks in the know, like Sir Elton John and Khalid to tip their hats.”
 
With these five-star endorsements, it was inevitable that fanbases would start mobilising worldwide and, with the help of ARIA platinum certified single ‘Younger’ and most recent heartbreaker Not Thinkin’ Bout You (check out the remix featuring Grammy nominated rapper GoldLink), shows have been selling out all over the globe.

In fact, Ruel’s first ever show in New York City late last year also became his first ever sold out NYC appearance, such is the demand for his addictive blend of glitchy electro-soul beds and vocals reminiscent of James Blake, Frank Ocean or even Khalid himself.

Last seen in New Zealand in October for an intimate show, RUEL is moving on up quickly and will hit the Bruce Mason Centre in Auckland on Friday May 24 in peak form after completing a run of his first headline shows through Asia and Australia where he’ll be the youngest male artist to headline the iconic, Sydney Opera House…twice. Ruel’s raw talent is giving the industry a much-needed shakeup – don’t miss seeing this record breaker!

RUEL
NEW ZEALAND 2019

THE BRUCE MASON CENTRE, AUCKLAND FRIDAY MAY 24

TICKETS ON SALE 11AM FRIDAY APRIL 12
Audience Republic pre-sale begins 4pm Thursday, April 11 until 9am Friday April 12

Live Nation pre-sale begins 4pm Thursday, April 11 until 9am Friday April 12

For complete tour and ticket information, visit: oneruel.com & livenation.co.nz

FIRST LOOK AT THE BRAND NEW 'THE CHILLS' FEATURE FILM RELEASED

Fresh from a sell-out world premiere at the prestigious SXSW film festival in Austin, Texas, the debut trailer for ‘The Chills: The Triumph & Tragedy of Martin Phillipps’ has today been released.
 
In cinemas nationwide on May 2nd, the film is an intimate cinematic portrait of the eccentric Martin Phillipps and his band The Chills. One of New Zealand’s most important songwriters, Phillipps startling sense of humour - even in the blackest moments, will captivate audiences.
 
The film travels with Phillipps as he faces the jarring reality of his mortality, reconciles a lifetime’s worth of curious collections and looks back on a catalogue of heavenly pop hits. Rediscover the music that personifies 1980s New Zealand, when people loved their leather jackets and lived through the doldrums.
 
Directed by Julia Parnell of Notable Pictures (Wilbur: The King in the Ring, Anthems) and co-directed by Rob Curry (Way of the Morris, The Ballad of Shirley Collins) this is a powerful documentation of one of our most colourful musical icons. Early reviews have called it ‘Gritty, grainy, colourful and unusually intimate” EYE FOR FILM and ROLLING STONE said, “This is what a living legend looks and sounds like."
 
“Martin is captivating, articulate and surprisingly clear-eyed about his life and work,” said Parnell. “Our film, alongside Martin, picks apart a lifetime of memories, and as his precious items are discarded and redistributed, we discover the powerful stories behind it all. Martin’s story tells us that in the end, you can’t run from the truth, no matter how high you rise in life, or how far you fall.”
 
“When I realised that my health might limit my ability to tell my own story, I became very focused on what I needed to achieve with the time I had left,” said Phillipps. “It was important that I honestly confronted what had happened in the past - the highs and the lows. I feel I can stand tall now. This movie is a psychedelic tapestry of tragedy and success that will take people on an unexpected voyage.”
 
The film will be released nationwide on May 2nd following a gala premiere in Dunedin on May 1st, coinciding with the launch of New Zealand Music Month.

JOIN THE CONVERSATION:
 
FACEBOOK // INSTAGRAM // TWITTER #TheChillsFilm 

COMPLEXIONS CONTEMPORARY BALLET - A MATCHLESS AMERICAN DANCE COMPANY

Direct from New York and celebrating their 25th anniversary, world-renowned Complexions Contemporary Ballet returns to Auckland this May showcasing their distinctive brand of sheer passion, awe-inspiring skill and pure physically set to the iconic soundtracks of musical maestros - J.S. Bach and David Bowie.
 
Across two stunning dance works, sixteen phenomenal dancers from the prestigious company, led by world renowned choreographer Dwight Rhoden and dance virtuoso Desmond Richardson, will take to The Civic stage for five breathtaking performances which reviewers have described as a ‘sublime fusion of dance and exquisite ballet technique’. Set in two acts, the first an awe-inspiring dance to the classical works of Bach, showcasing the technical perfection, musicality and versatility of the company; the second is a dazzling homage to the iconic and chameleon spirit of David Bowie, fusing his greatest hits to form a rock-inspired ballet in his honour.
 
This year will see the Complexions Contemporary Ballet celebrate their 25th anniversary with a gala ball in New York City. Well known as one of the world’s most progressive and respected dance companies, the company has performed to audiences all around the world. Of Bach to Bowie, Broadway World called the show ‘A timeless piece of contemporary art’, while Billboard Magazine described the show as ‘inventive, emotionally satisfying and just plain joyful’ and the company ‘utterly transfixing’.
 
Auckland Live director Robbie Macrae looks forward to welcoming the company to Auckland in May. “Auckland Live is dedicated to bringing the world’s most innovative and dynamic performing arts companies to Aotearoa, New Zealand. Complexions Contemporary Ballet is one such company and we are delighted to bring this extraordinary ensemble back to Auckland,” says Mr Macrae.
 
Complexions Contemporary Ballet’s Bach to Bowie will run from Thursday 9 - Sunday 12 May at The Civic. Tickets go on sale Wednesday March 20, 9am. Tickets*: Premium Elite, $125, Premium, $84.90. For more information and to book tickets go to www.aucklandlive.co.nz/show/complexions *Service fees apply.

In celebration of the company’s commitment to fostering young talent, Auckland Live has created a special student group price of $10** a ticket, while available. For more information please contact groups@ticketmaster.co.nz. **Terms and Conditions apply

‘THE FRONT LAWN’ REUNITES TO BRING CLAYMATION KIDS SERIES ‘KIRI AND LOU’ TO LIFE

The friendship between two prehistoric creatures (Kiri, a feisty little dinosaur and Lou, a gentle, dreamy creature) has rekindled the creative partnership of two of NZ’s best loved artists, Harry Sinclair and Don McGlashan, who collaborated in the 80s as musical comedy performance duo ‘The Front Lawn’.

Aimed at children aged 3-7, and set in the prehistoric forest of Aotearoa, Kiri and Lou is a gently humorous series, helping children (and their parents!) learn to handle their emotions. Written and directed by Sinclair (Topless Women Talk About Their Lives, The Price of Milk) and with songs co- written with McGlashan, an all-star cast has assembled for the project. Jemaine Clement voices the role of Lou, with Olivia Tennet playing Kiri, and Kiwi favourites Rima Te Wiata, Jaquie Brown, Josh Thomson and Mark Wright also lend their vocal talents to the ensemble cast.

Producer Fiona Copland has teamed with Sinclair and with world class animation director Antony Elworthy (lead animator on Wes Anderson’s recent Isle of Dogs) to form a new stop motion animation studio, Stretchy, based in Christchurch. The studio has attracted top animators from around the world and is presently underway with a second series of Kiri and Lou.

“We are trying to make something truly beautiful for kids, which celebrates New Zealandness, and draws the audience into a charming world where kindness rules,” says Sinclair.

JOIN THE CONVERSATION:
Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/kiriandlou
Website - http://kiriandlou.com/

Watch the series now at https://www.tvnz.co.nz/shows/kiri-and-lou