Following critical acclaim at Berlin and Toronto International Film Festivals, and most recently at the NZ International Film Festival, Night Raiders has today released a local trailer ahead of its nationwide general release on Thursday 24th March.
Set in 2043, the Canadian-New Zealand co-production is a female driven dystopian drama about resilience, courage and love. The nail-biting post-war future thriller follows a mother joining an underground band of vigilantes to try and rescue her daughter from a state-run institution.
Night Raiders is written by Cree-Métis director Danis Goulet (Wapawekka, Barefoot) who describes the film as inspired in part by Alfonso Cuarón's 2006 film Children of Men, as well as by the military response to the Dakota Access Pipeline protests on the Standing Rock Indian Reservation in 2016. Taika Waititi (Jojo Rabbit, Thor: Ragnarock, What We Do in the Shadows) serves as Executive Producer on the film.
Producer Chelsea Winstanley pointed out that colonisation is a shared experience among many Indigenous peoples around the world: “The events in the film depicting despicable acts against children in state care happened in Aotearoa, in Australia among the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities, and with Native Americans. Chelsea adds “What Danis has done through her script, which is so clever, has been to reference the past which we now experience the effects of in the present, to be a warning to our future. And that's the message: if we don't take notice of what we've done in the past, we can, if we're not careful, repeat those same mistakes."
Night Raiders stars Elle-Máijá Apiniskim Tailfeathers (Blood Quantam), newcomer Brooklyn Letexier-Hart (Burden of Truth), Aotearoa actor, Alex Tarrant (Head High, NCIS: Hawai’i) and Amanda Plummer (Pulp Fiction, The Hunger Games: Catching Fire).
Goulet described making Night Raiders as a genre that North American film has never explored to the same extent as European film: "Lights had gone off about how to express in indigenous life on screen. Filmmaking is a natural and organic extension of the oral tradition. It gives us tools to bring these stories to life in new and imaginative ways."
Night Raiders was released in Canada in late 2021, with the widest opening of any film by an indigenous director in Canadian film history. It was named the winner of the 2021 DGC Discovery Award from the Directors Guild of Canada, and included in TIFF's annual year-end Canada's Top Ten list for 2021. The Toronto Film Critics Association named Night Raiders as a finalist for the Rogers Best Canadian Film Award at the Toronto Film Critics Association Awards 2021, with the winner slated to be announced in March 2022.
Stuff called the Night Raiders “A haunting, vibrant, thought-provoking tale” and The L.A. Times commended Goulet on her feature directorial debut: “the world she builds is a remarkably detailed, revealing reflection of our own.”
Night Raiders is produced by Tara Woodbury (Transplant, The Underground), Paul Barkin (The Colony, Amreeka, Firecrackers), Ainsley Gardiner (Boy, Eagle vs Shark, The Breaker Upperers), Georgina Conder (Cousins, The Breaker Upperers, She Shears), co-produced by Chelsea Winstanley (Jojo Rabbit, Merata: How Mum Decolonised the Screen, What We Do in the Shadows). Also executive producing are Lisa Meeches and Kyle Irving for Eagle Vision.
With investment from The New Zealand Film Commission, Night Raiders is distributed in New Zealand by Rialto Distribution.
LORDE ANNOUNCED AS GUEST EDITOR FOR NEW EDITION OF VIVA’S QUARTERLY MAGAZINE
Photo credit: Ophelia Mikkelson Jones
International award-winning fashion and lifestyle magazine Viva have announced Grammy Award-winning singer Lorde (Ella Yelich-O’Connor) as special guest editor and cover star of its upcoming glossy edition, on sale in retail outlets Aotearoa-wide on the 28th February.
As Viva’s inaugural guest editor, Ella has worked closely with the Viva team to bring the pages to life. The issue explores the theme of ‘designing a better future’, from indigenous fashion and innovative design, to the importance of te reo and protecting our environment – subjects close to Ella’s heart. Ella is photographed for the cover shoot wearing a host of sustainably-minded local designers, accompanied by an in-depth interview by published author Megan Dunn (Things I Learned at Art School).
Lorde (Ella Yelich-O’Connor)says, “I feel privileged to have been invited to work with the talented team at Viva. We loved putting this issue together, and I learnt a lot. I can’t wait to share it with everyone”.
Viva editor Amanda Linnell says, “We’re over the moon to collaborate with Ella on this very special issue. Ella was extremely hands-on, brainstorming story ideas, interviewing creatives, and being part of the layout process and so much more. Her generosity of time and spirit towards this issue means it’s particularly special. I know our readers will love it. The issue is brimming with great reads, we can’t wait for New Zealanders to pick up a copy and enjoy it.”
Viva Magazine Volume Seven also features writing from BBC documentary maker and environmental journalist Sharron Ward, who highlights unique places worth preserving in Aotearoa, from Putiki to Pukeiāhua.
Award-winning writer and published author Shilo Kino (Ngā Puhi, Ngāti Maniapoto) explores the rising popularity of full immersion te reo Māori study.
Readers can step inside the unique home of artist Martin Basher and his director wife Martha Jeffries, located in Ian Athfield’s iconic hillside complex in Khandallah. Plus, sought-after interior designer Katie Lockhart shares the inspiration behind some of her most exciting projects.
Viva food writer Leisha Jones investigates the future of hospitality in New Zealand, and wine writer Jo Burzynska rounds-up innovative wineries in the sustainability scene, recommending the best drops from around the country.
Following its launch in August 2020, Viva’s quarterly magazine has gone from strength to strength, winning First Place in the Best Use of Print Award at the INMA Global Media Awards in 2021, and being inducted into Kātoitoi - the Aotearoa Design Archive.
Also available as an annual subscription, Viva Magazine Volume Seven will be on sale on magazine shelves right across New Zealand from 28th February.
MAXO KREAM ANNOUNCES NEW ZEALAND DATE
New Zealand Splendour in the Grass Sideshow confirmed for July 2022
American rapper Maxo Kream has announced a New Zealand sideshow to his Splendour In The Grass festival appearance this July. The Houston-native will perform at Auckland’s Studio The Venue on July 20 before heading to Byron to perform at Splendour In The Grass, one of Australia’s largest and most popular music festivals.
Tickets go on sale at 10am, Thursday February 17.
My Live Nation members can secure tickets first during the exclusive pre-sale beginning at 10am, Tuesday February 15 until 8am, Thursday February 17.
For complete tour and ticket information, visit: livenation.co.nz
Upon meeting him, gangsta rapper isn't the impression that most would get from Houston emcee Maxo Kream. He has a surprisingly goofy and playful demeanour, often cracking self-aware jokes and displaying a smile which showcases either his gold grin or his trademark gap in the upper row of his teeth. But, make no mistake, Maxo's backstory is a tale consisting of crime and death that would catch the attention of the most jaded followers of gangsta/trap rap.
Maxo will say that the pandemic did little to affect his day-to-day, but the time he had to reflect - coupled with the passing of one of the most important people in his life - wrenched from him his most honest and autobiographical work to date. With ‘Weight of the World’ Maxo is unraveling his grief with profoundly grounded precision. The 16-track, 44-minute project boasts features from Tyler, the Creator, ASAP Rocky, Freddie Gibbs, Monaleo, and, on the album closer, Don Toliver.
"A Houston-native through and through, Maxo flashes a grin that reveals a blindingly radiant grill, encrusted in diamonds. He wears an equally iced-out chain - customized with the logo for his streetwear company Persona -and an Atlanta Braves fitted cap. In other words, he's crisp, ready for his long-overdue breakthrough." - Rolling Stone.
MAXO KREAM
STUDIO THE VENUE, AUCKLAND WEDNESDAY JULY 20
TICKETS ON SALE THURSDAY FEBRUARY 17 AT 10AM (LOCAL TIME)
Live Nation pre-sale: 10am Tuesday February 15 – 9am Thursday February 17
About Live Nation Entertainment
Live Nation Entertainment (NYSE: LYV) is the world’s leading live entertainment company comprised of global market leaders: Ticketmaster, Live Nation Concerts, Live Nation Advertising & Sponsorship. For additional information, visit www.livenationentertainment.com.
HOST OF SPLENDOUR IN THE GRASS SIDESHOWS ANNOUNCED FOR NEW ZEALAND THIS JULY
Pick 'n' Mix line-up includes Liam Gallagher, Jack Harlow, YUNGBLUD, Aitch, Orville Peck and more
Live Nation and Secret Sounds have today announced a huge selection of Splendour in the Grass sideshows for New Zealand this July 2022. Pick ‘n’ mix headline performances include bonafide rock ‘n’ roll star and living legend Liam Gallagher, the nimble wordplay and unpredictable rhyme patterns of one of the hottest acts in the world right now Jack Harlow, and New Zealand’s favourite Yorkshire born singer, songwriter and multi-instrumentalist YUNGBLUD. Tickets for all shows go on sale Monday 14 February at 9am.
The pick ‘n’ mix line-up continues with Aitch bringing his infectious energy and unrivalled flow, and country recording artist Orville Peck set to captivate with his deep baritone. Rising superstar Tierra Whack will bring her flavourful wordplay and boundless creativity, and LA-based rapper and producer JPEG MAFIA will hit our shores hot off the back of his fourth full-length album.
Catch the alternative tunes of Still Woozy, made with his homespun mix of acoustic and electronic instruments, or Brit Awards’ Rising Star Holly Humberstone as she moves audiences with her inimitable brand of songwriting and visionary creativity. Listen in awe as Joy Crookes showcases her timeless vocals and storytelling, and prepare to be stunned when renforshort performs her reflective and snappy tracks.
See below for dates and cities for each show. Tickets for all shows are on sale from Monday 14 February at 9am. My Live Nation members may also secure tickets first during the pre-sale beginning 9am Friday 11 February.
For complete tour and ticket information, visit: www.livenation.co.nz/sitgsideshows
LIAM GALLAGHER SPARK ARENA, AUCKLAND THURSDAY JULY 21
JACK HARLOW TRUST ARENA, AUCKLAND SUNDAY JULY 31
YUNGBLUD SHED 10, AUCKLAND WEDNESDAY JULY 20
AITCH SAN FRAN, WELLINGTON SATURDAY JULY 30
AITCH POWERSTATION, AUCKLAND SUNDAY JULY 31
ORVILLE PECK POWERSTATION, AUCKLAND SUNDAY JULY 17
TIERRA WHACK POWERSTATION, AUCKLAND SATURDAY JULY 30
JPEG MAFIA POWERSTATION, AUCKLAND TUESDAY JULY 26
STILL WOOZY TUNING FORK, AUCKLAND MONDAY JULY 18
HOLLY HUMBERSTONE TUNING FORK, AUCKLAND SUNDAY JULY 31
JOY CROOKES POWERSTATION, AUCKLAND SUNDAY JULY 24
RENFORSHORT TUNING FORK, AUCKLAND SATURDAY JULY 30
TICKETS ON SALE 9AM MONDAY FEBRUARY 14
Live Nation pre-sale from 9am Friday February 11
For complete tour and ticket information, visit: livenation.co.nz
AUCKLAND LIVE: PRESENTS THE RETURN OF AUCKLAND TOWN HALL AND THE CIVIC TOURS IN 2022
Auckland Live is proud to announce the return of The Auckland Town Hall and The Civic Tours – offering remarkable experiences of the historic buildings. Following the tremendous success of previous tours, sessions for both venues will run year-round for the first time ever, commencing the end of January throughout 2022.
Led by passionate and knowledgeable tour guides, The Auckland Town Hall Tours and The Civic Tours offer an immersive, insider's look into the workings of the iconic buildings, their histories, shows, backstage stories, and more.
'The tour was informative, excellently presented and thoroughly enjoyable' - Tour patron
Tickets for both tours go on sale: Tuesday 18 January 2022 at aucklandlive.co.nz/tours.
The Civic Tours
Thursday 27 January - Thursday 15 December. Session dates and times are available here.
Auckland Town Hall Tours
Sunday 23 January - Sunday 11 December. Session dates and times are available here.
Ticket Prices:
Individual - $49*
Groups of 6+ - $46* pp
*Service Fees apply
Ticket price includes a $5 voucher, redeemable at The Terrace Café or the Auckland Art Gallery Café
Auckland Live - we create memories that last a lifetime. #lovingitlive
Auckland Live is a division of Auckland Unlimited.
PŌNEKE-BASED ARTIST MO ETC. ANNOUNCED AS VODAFONE AND LIVE NATION’S FIRST MONTHLY ARTIST OF 2022
It’s been over one year since Live Nation & Vodafone came together to launch the Aotearoa branch of ONES TO WATCH, a monthly programme that helps boost up-and-coming Kiwi musicians and puts them on a global stage. Today, the platform has announced that soulful Wellingtonian Moana Ete, better known as Mo Etc., will be featured as the first artist of 2022.
With formal theatre, dance and acting training (from Aotearoa’s premiere drama school Toi Whakaari) under her belt, singer-songwriter Mo Etc. is no stranger to the local entertainment world. This triple-threat got her start at Kiwi music competition Rockquest, a national high school music competition that has helped discover artists across the country. Moana entered the competition in her last year of high school, coming third overall and giving her the confidence to pursue music as a career.
Moana partially credits her musical abilities to growing up in a Samoan and Māori family. Her Samoan side were big church-goers and participating in the choir helped her understand the basics when it comes to music. “It showed me the basics of you know, how to sing a melody or a harmony, or even how to find a harmony. I really learnt all the basics through there.”
Earlier in 2021, Mo Etc. released her debut album ‘Oceanbed’, which she mixed herself at home on Garageband. The album features the song that Moana claims to represent her most accurately, ‘Stay Awake’: “It’s like love songs that have a bit of a question mark – like ‘’I Love You?” It was like helping me figure it out what love is. Like it doesn’t feel conventional, it doesn’t look like what it is in the movies, it’s just a little bit different.”
Moana has shared the stage in the past, including in supergroup Fly My Pretties, appearing in the song ‘Mud and Stardust’ and touring with the band. She also fronted neo-soul electronic group A Girl Named Mo, who sold out five shows at Wellington’s Bats Theatre and released a live album after the performances.
On Mo Etc. becoming the next ONES TO WATCH artist, Live Nation promoter Mike Ross says: “We’re excited to be launching 2022 with such a promising emerging artist from our capital. Mo Etc.’s sound is soulful and unique, and we are so happy to spotlight her as part of this program”
2022 will see an exciting new slate of Kiwi musicians added to the ONES TO WATCH programmed in Aotearoa. Mo Etc. will join ONONO, Rhys Rich, There’s a Tuesday, Muroki, Daily J, Balu Brigada and more as she joins the programme’s alumni.
Launched in 2017 in the United States, ONES TO WATCH has helped boost the careers of artists now reaching global stages, including Halsey and Grammy-award winning Dua Lipa, who recently announced a global tour, including a New Zealand pit-stop, after a massive two years promoting her number one album, Future Nostalgia.
Joe Goddard, Experience & Commercial Director at Vodafone NZ is excited about Mo Etc.’s appointment into the ONES TO WATCH family: “Vodafone is committed to building a better Aotearoa for our rangatahi, so seeing Mo Etc.’s trajectory from Smokefree Rockquest contestant to ONES TO WATCH artist is stellar. We hope Kiwis across the country are adding her to their summer playlists.
After launching an exclusive long-term partnership in 2019, Live Nation Australasia and Vodafone New Zealand have provided Vodafone customers access to Live Nation’s entertainment portfolio including music, family and comedy tours and festivals across the country. The strategic multi-year partnership is committed to bringing the best live experiences to New Zealand and the best New Zealand artists to the world. The unique emerging talent platform of ONES TO WATCH builds on this strong partnership and a mutual dedication to support grassroots initiatives.
As well as access to the online platform, Vodafone customers will be given the chance to win tickets to the ONES TO WATCH invitation-only quarterly showcase events. More info and competition details available at: vodafonerewards.co.nz
27-YEAR-OLD WĀHINE OLIVIA SHIVAS WINS THE ATTITUDE ACC SUPREME AWARD AT THE 2021 ATTITUDE AWARDS
Olivia Shivas, reporter and podcast creator, has been announced as the winner of the prestigious Attitude ACC Supreme Award at the 2021 Attitude Awards. Now in their 14th year, the 2021 awards will be celebrated with a one-hour special airing on TVNZ1 on December 18th. The annual event recognises the achievements and successes of Kiwis in the disability sector.
Olivia is a reporter and homepage editor for Stuff, and in August launched a podcast on the website with friend, co-host, and former Attitude-recipient Rebecca Dubber. The podcast was initiated by Olivia and aims to share snippets of life and the questions they get as disabled Kiwis, with the aim of educating non-disabled New Zealanders on issues that are common in their community. Together, Olivia and Rebecca covered religion, dating, self-image, travel, and the representation of disability in mainstream media. Olivia initiated the podcast, from pitching the idea to senior staff, to leading the pre-production, producing, recording, interviewing, editing, post-production and distribution.
Olivia’s role at Stuff has also seen her become a consultant for their new Wellington office, to ensure an inclusive space for people with disabilities. Olivia gave recommendations on how to make the physical space more accessible based on her personal experience as a wheelchair user, with her suggestions adopted by other Stuff offices around Aotearoa. By her colleagues she’s described as a natural and approachable leader, and has helped train new staff upon their start at the company. A video from a training session with existing newsroom staff on how to accurately report on disability is kept as an education tool on the Stuff intranet.
Olivia is a regular volunteer for disability charities around the country. In 2016, she was voted onto the Muscular Dystrophy Association’s National Council as the Rangatahi Youth Representative for two years, where she reported on behalf of young Kiwis living with the disability. She became the youngest board member for StarJam, a not-for-profit organization providing free musical workshops for young people with disabilities. Before her appointment to the board, Olivia was an attendee of StarJam workshops for more than eight years. She’s also a volunteer with Radio Lollipop, which gives young patients at Starship a voice and provides a distraction during their hospital stay.
Olivia’s Supreme Award win was presented to her by Olympic gold medalist and Americas Cup sailor Blair Tuke. On her win, Olivia said: “I’m so honoured to have won the Attitude Supreme Award and Attitude Enterprise Award for our work on the podcast, but this isn’t about me. This is about all disabled people, acknowledging how far we’ve come for visibility and knowing there’s more work to be done for our equality. We set out to tell authentic stories about disabled people to reshape the way we are portrayed in the mainstream media. The way others see us and how we see ourselves and our potential impacts our real lives and what people expect from us, so here’s to telling more authentic stories and fighting ableism.
Congratulations to the other Attitude Awards finalists and winners. Seeing the calibre of talent, drive and passion in the disability community makes me so excited for the next generation of disabled people. Huge thanks to Attitude Pictures, NZ On Air, all my wonderful colleagues at Stuff, Grace and Rebecca and my family and friends who encourage and support me.”
As a previous Attitude employee, Olivia understands the mission behind the organisation and the values that Attitude look for when selecting finalists in the awards. Olivia is passionate about empowering groups that are often overlooked or marginalised, and has used her lived experience as a disabled woman to pave the way for others. Her determination to make Aotearoa a more inclusive society, coupled with her incredible personal achievements, contribute to why Attitude are delighted to name her the Supreme Winner for 2021, as well as the winner of the Enterprise Award.
On Olivia’s win, Attitude CEO Dan Buckingham: “24 amazing finalists came to the fore this year, showcasing a range of people who are either excelling in their own right, or doing phenomenal work to advance the lives others. Our panel of judges have deep knowledge and understanding of the disability sector; that they chose Olivia from such a strong field of people speaks to her work and what she is achieving. We only wish we could be celebrating her with our usual black-tie event! Fortunately, with the backing of NZ On Air and our extremely supportive family of sponsors, we have been able to put together a fantastic TV special to honour Olivia, and the 2021 finalists who are doing great things in the disability community.”
ACC is proud to be the principal sponsor of the Attitude Awards for the 14th consecutive year.
ACC Chief Executive Megan Main said: “My heartfelt congratulations to all nominees and winners at this year’s Attitude Awards, and particularly to Supreme Award winner Olivia Shivas. We commend her for helping expand the public consciousness of what it means to live with a disability and helping remove bias in our society to open up more possibilities for people with disabilities.
“Many of us gain meaning in our lives from our work, and I want to congratulate the team at the Wanganui Enterprises Trust, winner of the ACC Attitude Employer Award. The Trust is a shining example of the contribution that employers can make in improving New Zealanders’ lives every day. You have shown there are huge benefits to be gained from investing in and employing people with disabilities. Our congratulations to the Attitude Awards team for the great work you do to celebrate our disabled community. This event creates a stronger and more inclusive New Zealand.”
Olivia’s award closed an outstanding hour-long special where 25 individuals and organisations were recognised for their work in the disability sector. Hosted by TV news anchor Simon Dallow, audiences were treated a performance put together by choreographer Amelia Mcgregor, featuring Anushka Singh, a Deaf student from Ko Taku Reo, and dancers Ysabel and Martina Mercado, set to music played by the New Zealand Army Band.
ACCLAIMED MĀORI SINGER TEEKS ANNOUNCES TWO 2022 SHOWS
Live Nation has today announced that modern soul singer TEEKS (Te Karehana Gardiner-Toi) will be returning to the stage for a limited number of shows in 2022. The award-winning artist will visit Hamilton and Wellington to share his stunning vocals and capitivating lyrics with local crowds.
After a sold-out album release tour in 2021 which saw TEEKS share his long-awaited debut album ‘Something to Feel’ with audiences across Aotearoa, the celebrated Māori artist has received critical acclaim and an outpouring of praise for his mahi. The album debuted at #1, with the single ‘First Time’ reaching #1 on iTunes and Spotify, securing gold status in Aotearoa and South Africa, and amassing over 5 million Spotify streams.
TEEKS burst onto the local music scene in 2017 with his EP The Grapefruit Skies, and by 2019 he’d secured a loyal fanbase thanks to his ability to connect with audiences through his waiata. By the end of 2019, TEEKS had been nominated for the 2017 Taite Music Prize, was a finalist for a Silver Scroll songwriting award, and was awarded Best Māori Artist at the New Zealand Music Awards. After a sold-out headline show at Auckland’s Town Hall with the Auckland Philharmonic Orchestra and two sold-out national tours, it was clear that TEEKS was one to keep an eye on as he climbed the charts, a statement only further proven when he was awarded Best NZ Act at the 2021 MTV EMA’s.
TEEKS’ incredible talent has been recognised overseas, with American Vogue stating he was one of the music industry’s “most promising talents” and “New Zealand’s soulful singer to know.” Yvette Noel-Schure, publicist to mega-star Beyonce, has taken TEEKS under her wing by representing him outside of Aotearoa.
Tickets for all shows go on sale at 12pm Wednesday December 8 from livenation.co.nz.
“Poised to become New Zealand’s next international superstar” – North & South
“Teeks has an uncanny knack for singing with a gravitas that makes you feel like you are in a stadium, but at the same time as if he is singing for you and you only.” – New Zealand Herald
“His ballads, like soothing balms for heartache, and his stage presence, endearing and utterly likeable, are universally appealing – and his motley crew crowd are a testament to that.” – Stuff
Written and produced by TEEKS, the album’s first single ‘Without You’ set off the waves for what unfolded over the next six months. The single was quickly followed by the release of ‘I’ in the middle of a lockdown, offering some emotional comfort in a time of uprooted living. This was followed up by ‘II’ and a very special tour announcement. Giving audiences in select New Zealand towns the chance to experience ‘Something To Feel’ up close and personally before release, TEEKS hit the road late last year. The tour sold out in an unprecedented 7 days. Backed by the acclaimed Black Quartet, TEEKS performed in beautiful, historic venues from the Far North to the Deep South.
Before long, TEEKS revealed his greatest love song to date, ‘Remember Me’. Between the bars of this soaring, expansive anthem, he bleeds emotional vulnerability in a bold statement of modern masculinity. Watch the music video here, in which TEEKS made his directional debut, working alongside Director Ray Edwards and Producer Mia Henry-Teirney.
Expressed through unguarded songwriting, and a honey-soaked croon that effortlessly rises from a whisper to a roar, Something To Feel’s twelve songs draw from the experiences through which he uncovered strength in vulnerability, and learned the power of complete emotional expression. Cast from the most isolated corner of the earth – a private universe away – TEEKS shares a songbook destined to connect the world. The album has been nominated for Recorded Music NZ Te Pukaemi o te Tau | Album of the Year at the 2021 Aotearoa Music Awards, alongside four other nominations for TEEKS’ mahi.
TEEKS
NEW ZEALAND 2022
HAMILTON GARDENS ART FESTIVAL, HAMILTION
FRIDAY, 18 FEB
ANDERSON PARK, WELLINGTON
FRIDAY, 4 MARCH
TICKETS ON SALE 12PM WEDNESDAY DECEMBER 8
For complete tour and ticket information, visit: thisteeks.com & www.livenation.co.nz
LANY ANNOUNCE A NEW ZEALAND SHOW WITH SPECIAL GUEST SASHA ALEX SLOAN
Live Nation and Secret Sounds have today announced that L.A. trio LANY are heading to New Zealand next year. Joined by special guest Sasha Alex Sloan, LANY will perform at Shed 10 in Auckland on Tuesday 31st May 2022.
This performance will be their biggest New Zealand show yet, with a number of new songs on their setlist. Fronted by songwriter, lyricist and producer Paul Klein, LANY’s breakthrough came with their 2017 self-titled debut, which built an international fanbase and led to sold out shows across the world, including New Zealand.
The heartbreak anthems on their 2018 follow-up Malibu Nights cracked the Billboard Album Chart and connected in a huge way across the globe, with their 2019 collaboration with Lauv, ‘Mean It’, and 2021 collaboration with Kelsea Ballerini ‘I Quit Drinking’ garnering further attention. The third studio album, mama’s boy debuted at #7 on the Billboard 200 and #1 on the Alternative Albums sales chart with more than 300 million streams to date, and single if this is the last time earning LANY their biggest radio hit to date.
The band’s fourth album ‘gg bb xx’ is a change of gear, towards what principal songwriter Klein calls micro-moments: those flashes we experience that come and go in the blink of an eye. Fleeting moments in love and life that it’d be easy to miss if we didn’t grab hold of them there and then.
‘gg bb xx’ finds LANY returning to their infectious pop sound, collaborating with an array of notable songwriters and producers including Andrew Goldstein (Maroon 5, Katy Perry, Lauv), John Ryan (Shawn Mendes, Charlie Puth, Harry Styles), David Hodges (Ed Sheeran, 5SOS, Blink 182), Tobias Jesso Jr. (Adele, Sia, HAIM), Dan Smyers of Dan + Shay and more.
Now with a social following of over 8.2 million people, LANY have played sold-out shows from L.A.’s Greek Theatre to London’s Brixton Academy. Their songs have been streamed over three billion times with more than 600 million video views to date. Just off a 30+ date tour of North America and UK, LANY are primed and ready to bring ‘gg bb xx’ to Kiwi fans.
Boston born songstress Sasha Alex Sloan will join LANY on tour, marking her first ever show in New Zealand. Sasha started writing songs at just 10 years old. She moved to L.A. at 19 after dropping out of college and began writing tracks for the likes of Camila Cabello as well as lending her vocals to Kygo's ‘This Town’ and ‘Falls’ for ODESZA. Sasha released her first EP sad girl in 2017. Within a year she surpassed 19 million Spotify streams, while averaging over 4 million monthly listeners and, fast forward to 2021, she is in the Top 500 most played artists on Spotify globally. Be sure to catch the unassuming phenomenon when she joins LANY in May.
Jump on tickets fast and get ready to catch LANY’s synth-sheened anthems of love and heartbreak when they hit our shores in 2022.
Tickets for all shows go on sale at 9am on Friday December 10.
Pre-sales tickets will be available through Live Nation, Secret Sounds and Spotify from 9am on Thursday December 9 until 8am Friday December 10.
For complete tour and ticket information, visit: livenation.co.nz.
SHED 10, AUCKLAND TUESDAY MAY 31, 2022
TICKETS ON SALE 9AM FRIDAY DECEMBER 10
Live Nation, Secret Sounds and Spotify pre-sale: 9am Thursday December 9 until 8am Friday December 10
For complete tour and ticket information, visit: thisislany.com & www.livenation.co.nz
PSYCH-POP BAND ONONO ANNOUNCED AS LIVE NATION AND VODAFONE’S DECEMBER MONTHLY ARTIST
Another artist for Live Nation & Vodafone’s Ones to Watch artist discovery programme has been announced, this month celebrating psychedelic pop band ONONO. Fronted by Jono Nott, the band stemmed from a personal project, developing into a multi-instrumental sound with tunes to feed the soul.
While ONONO is fronted by Jono, he shares the stage with three other musicians to bring the energy to a live audience – Katelin on synths and vocals, Leo on synth bass guitar, and Sam on drums. They know how to put on a show, with Jono explaining: “It’s a pretty energetic show. It's not like a crazy rock show or anything. It’s the kind of thing that you could dance hard if you wanted to or you could close your eyes and sort of float away.”
With a sound self-described as “soundscapy, super cinematic and escapist pop,” their music is known to transport its listener into a vibrant summer haze. Their latest self-titled album reflects this feeling, providing the perfect soundtrack to a Kiwi summer filled with road trips, long hot days, and hazy nights.
No stranger to the music scene, ONONO’s front man Jono Nott has been playing in bands for several years, including with his cousins in successful Kiwi-pop band Broods. With Jono on drums, the band have opened for acts including Ellie Goulding, Two Door Cinema Club, Tove Lo and Empire of the Sun, travelling the world and delighting crowds. Jono has also played at a number of music festivals with Broods, including Lollapalooza, Coachella, Outside Lands, Clockenflap Festival, Neon Lights and more.
Click here to find out more about ONONO
Live Nation promoter Renee Hermsen says: “ONONO delivers a truly unique sound within the pop, electro, experimental sphere, it can’t be put into boxes really! Make sure to see them live and experience it yourself. And bring your dancing shoes!”
It’s been over a year since ONES TO WATCH launched in Aotearoa, and since it’s inception, the programme has an incredible slate of musicians under its belt. ONONO joins Rhys Rich, There’s a Tuesday, Muroki, Paige, Park Rd, Balu Brigada and more as alumni. A variety of genres have been featured, from pop to indie, rock to hip hop, showcasing Aotearoa’s best when it comes to local music.
Launched in 2017 in the United States, ONES TO WATCH has helped boost the careers of artists now reaching global stages, including Halsey and Grammy-award winning Dua Lipa, who recently announced a global tour, including a New Zealand pit-stop, after a massive two years promoting her number one album, Future Nostalgia.
Joe Goddard, Experience & Commercial Director at Vodafone NZ had this to say: "The weather is heating up and a vibrant Kiwi summer is barrelling towards us, making ONONO the perfect band to join the ONES TO WATCH alumni right now. Thanks to our investment in upgrading mobile coverage across regional Aotearoa, Vodafone is the ideal companion for those summer road trips, helping our customers stream awesome Kiwi tunes as they explore our beautiful country.”
After launching an exclusive long-term partnership in 2019, Live Nation Australasia and Vodafone New Zealand have provided Vodafone customers access to Live Nation’s entertainment portfolio including music, family and comedy tours and festivals across the country. The strategic multi-year partnership is committed to bringing the best live experiences to New Zealand and the best New Zealand artists to the world. The unique emerging talent platform of ONES TO WATCH builds on this strong partnership and a mutual dedication to support grassroots initiatives.
As well as access to the online platform, Vodafone customers will be given the chance to win tickets to the ONES TO WATCH invitation-only quarterly showcase events. More info and competition details available at: vodafonerewards.co.nz
KIWI POP SUPERSTAR BENEE ADDS NEW ZEALAND SHOWS TO HER WORLD TOUR
Indie-pop superstar BENEE has today added a further three shows to her already sprawling list of shows across Aotearoa! Dunedin, Auckland, and Wellington have been added to the tour, along with a huge slate of shows across Europe and North America, with BENEE hitting the road from February 2022 to share new music and memories with fans across the globe.
BENEE will visit every corner of the country, hitting ten different towns and cities joined by special guests, THERE’S A TUESDAY. BENEE recently released her newest single ‘Doesn’t Matter’, her first taste of new music since her debut album ‘Hey U X’ hit the shelves in November 2020. The ‘Supalonely’ singer has had an incredible 18 months, from releasing the album, to sharing it with Kiwi crowds on a sold-out eight-date tour in late 2020 and being named on Forbes 30 under 30 Asia 2021 list. Worldwide streams in the billions have made her one of the most exciting new acts to have emerged anywhere.
BENEE shares her excitement with fans: “I am beyond excited to announce that my 2022 WORLD TOUR KICKS OFF IN NZ in Feb next year!!!!!!!!!” says BENEE. “It’s been such a long time coming & we’ve lived through a lot in these weird times but shows starting up again has rly got everyone sososososo happyyy!!!! I can’t wait to get back out there & meet all of u and play a bunch of new musiiiiiicccc!!
Following the success of her October 2020 tour, BENEE recognised that fans outside the main centres don’t often get the opportunity to experience full-scale pop concerts in their own backyards. From February 2022, she will bring her trademark infectious energy to crowds across Aotearoa (and the world!) to get people up on their feet for a groove-worthy night.
Tickets start from $59.90 (excluding booking fees) and go on sale at 11am Friday, November 26. VIP experiences will also be available for the tour, giving fans the chance to meet BENEE pre-show, gain early access to the venue for a prime viewing spot, and receive an exclusive tour gift. VIP experiences start at $139.90 (excluding booking fees).
Live Nation customers will have the chance to get tickets early to the new dates during the pre-sale starting at 10am Thursday, November 25 until 11am Friday, November 26.
For complete tour, ticket and VIP information, visit: livenation.co.nz.
BENEE is the dreamy voice of a disaffected generation. She broke out around the world with “Supalonely,” an alt-pop ballad about unwanted isolation, a sentiment that found her a lot of friends in 2020. Billions of streams later, she returned with the guest-packed, yet highly personal ‘Hey u x’ and a southern summer of sold out shows around her home country.
She has not only performed on a string of major television shows including The Late Show with Stephen Colbert, The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon, The Ellen DeGeneres Show and Late Night With Seth Meyers, but appeared alongside doting fan Elton John on his Apple Music Rocket Hour radio show.
Additionally, she was named Apple Up Next Artist July 2020, nominated for MTV VMA “Push Best New Artist” 2020, MTV EMA “Best Push” Artist 2020, E! People’s Choice Awards New Artist of 2020. She has collected seven New Zealand Aotearoa Music Awards in the past two years, twice taking home Single of the Year and Best Pop Artist categories, and is nominated in a further three categories in the 2021 awards – Te Kaipuoro Takitahi Toa | Best Solo Artist, The Edge Te Kaipuoro Arotini Toa | Best Pop Artist, and Recorded Music NZ Te Pukaemi o te Tau | Album of the Year. Her single “Glitter” won the APRA Silver Scroll songwriting prize in October 2020.
Supalonely is certified Platinum in eight countries including the US. In Australia, Supalonely, Glitter and Soaked are all Double Platinum records and Evil Spider and Find An Island are Gold – an impressive feat also matched in her home country.
Supporting BENEE, will be one of New Zealand’s most exciting up-and-coming indie rock/pop bands, THERE’S A TUESDAY. Picked to support by BENEE herself, the group consists of two female front women, Nat Hutton and Minnie Robberds, both on guitars and vocals, with Angus Murray on the drums and Joel Becker holding it down on the bass. After receiving critical acclaim for their debut EP in November 2020, followed by a busy summer festival season, There’s A Tuesday are poised to have a massive 12 months.
Get ready to experience BENEE before she embarks on a massive global tour! This is not to be missed.
TICKETS FOR NEW SHOWS ON SALE 11AM FRIDAY, NOV 26
Live Nation pre-sales begin 10am Thursday, Nov 25
For complete tour, ticket and VIP information, visit:
beneemusic.com & livenation.co.nz
NEW SHOWS ACROSS AOTEAROA ANNOUNCED FOR THE RESILIENCE PROJECT WITH HUGH VAN CUYLENBURG IN 2022
Due to popular demand, The Resilience Project has today announced a further three shows with founder and best-selling author Hugh van Cuylenburg.
This incredible event will give Kiwis the chance to learn about positive mental health strategies in a time where we need them most. Hugh will walk audiences through his journey and tell stories of the incredible people who have inspired him to build resilience and spread happiness. Hugh will visit Dunedin, Christchurch, Wellington and Auckland in May 2022.
With the original dates in 2021 postponed due to Covid-19 restrictions, it only elevates the need for positivity and resilience throughout the uncertainty of the pandemic. Hugh has reached over one million people through his best-selling book, incredibly successful podcast (The Imperfects), seminars and school talks, sports teams, and workplace visits. And now, The Resilience Project will share their flagship presentation with the Kiwi public for the first time.
Tickets go on sale at 12pm local time, Thursday November 18.
For complete tour and ticket information, visit: livenation.co.nz.
Hugh van Cuylenburg, founder of The Resilience Project, has previously partnered with elite sports teams (including Australian cricket, netball, soccer, NRL and AFL teams), over a thousand schools and more than 500 workplaces, teaching simple and practical evidence-based mental health strategies to help build resilience and happiness.
Van Cuylenburg is also the best-selling author of The Resilience Project: Finding Happiness Through Gratitude, Empathy and Mindfulness, which has sold over 200,000 copies since it’s release in late 2019. He is the co-host of popular podcast, The Imperfects.
The messages behind The Resilience Project’s work have become ever more powerful over the past twelve months. The public talks see Hugh unpack the research on mental health and break it down into simple tips that will leave you feeling empowered to improve your wellbeing. The talks are for everyone - adults, parents, professionals, and teenagers.
YUNGBLUD ANNOUNCES ‘LIFE ON MARS’ NZ SHOW IN 2022
Live Nation and Secret Sounds have today announced that YUNGBLUD will bring his huge Life on Mars tour to Aotearoa in 2022. The Yorkshire born singer, songwriter and multi-instrumentalist will perform an all ages-show at Auckland’s Shed 10 on July 20th, 2022, with tickets on sale from 12pm this Friday.
YUNGBLUD has torn up stages over the ditch in Australia including Splendour in the Grass, Spinoff and Falls Festival, but 2022 will mark his first performance to a Kiwi crowd. The past two years have seen YUNGBLUD collaborate with a host of heavyweight artists, including Halsey and Travis Barker for 11 Minutes, and with Machine Gun Kelly and Travis Barker for I Think I’m Okay.
Now with Cotton Candy sitting at more than 1.5 billion streams and 800,000+ albums sold globally, there’s no doubt that YUNGBLUD’s star is continuing to rise both in New Zealand and around the world.
“I’m so excited to perform in front of a New Zealand crowd and to meet my Kiwi fans for the first time. I’m sitting on a lot of pent-up energy, emotion, and passion so you all better prepare yourselves. I’ve had a year trapped in a room and my ADHD needs to have some gasoline put on it and set me on fire… let’s get it!” said YUNGBLUD.
YUNGBLUD’s sophomore album ‘Weird’, released in December 2020 and described as a coming-of-age album, is available now.
Tickets for go on sale at 12pm Friday November 12.
My Live Nation members may also secure tickets first during the pre-sale beginning 12pm Thursday November 11.
For complete tour and ticket information, visit: livenation.co.nz.
SHED 10, AUCKLAND WEDNESDAY JULY 20, 2022
TICKETS ON SALE 12PM FRIDAY NOVEMBER 12
Live Nation pre-sale: 12pm Thursday November 11 until 11am Friday November 12
For complete tour and ticket information, visit: yungbludofficial.com & livenation.co.nz
‘OPERA ON THE HARBOUR’ TO DEBUT ON AUCKLAND’S ICONIC WATERFRONT THIS FEBRUARY
NZ Opera General Director Thomas de Mallet Burgess and performers Joanna Foote and Bridget Costello at the events site at Wynyard Wharf. PHOTO CREDIT GREG BOWKER
Auckland’s iconic Wynyard Wharf will play host to the first-ever Opera on the Harbour, an evening of music and entertainment set against the backdrop of the stunning Waitematā Harbour and City Lights on Valentine’s Weekend 2022.
Audiences will experience a concert performance of the famous, crowd-pleasing musical Carousel in an open-air setting on the Auckland waterfront across three nights in February, with performances by some of New Zealand’s best operatic talent alongside and household names in music and entertainment. High-quality food and beverages will be on offer, with a spectacular fireworks display to conclude the evening.
Described by TIME magazine as “the best musical of the 20th century”, Rodgers & Hammerstein’s classic musical features the anthems ‘You’ll Never Walk Alone’ and ‘If I Loved You’.
NZ Opera General Director Thomas de Mallet Burgess says, “This will be a spectacular experience for audiences – a first-of-its-kind opera event on Waitematā Harbour with a purpose-built stage and seating area. Broadway will meet opera in a world-class outdoor setting at the height of summer’s long, warm evenings, introducing what we expect will become a favourite annual show in the Auckland summer events calendar.”
Auckland Unlimited’s Head of Major and Business Events, Richard Clarke, says new, innovative events are important for Auckland’s visitor economy.
“This event represents a fantastic opportunity for people to enjoy a weekend and a unique cultural experience in Tāmaki Makaurau. There is no better way to do that than to bring together some of the finest singers, musicians and creatives in the country for a spectacular production right on the water, against the backdrop of the city.”
“This is a fantastic example of what can be achieved with collaboration across the Auckland Council whānau and with innovative event partners. We are very proud to be able to support New Zealand and Auckland’s artistic and cultural talent while showcasing our city’s beautiful settings,” Clarke says.
Tickets start from $79 and are on public sale 1 November from ticketek.co.nz. NZ Opera subscribers can purchase season tickets from 26 October. More information at: nzopera.com. The event will comply strictly with all New Zealand Government COVID guidelines.
Opera on the Harbour is presented by MediaWorks, NZ Opera, Oceania (NW Group) and The Show Biz with support from Auckland Unlimited.
NEW ACTION-DRAMA FILM ‘MURU’, A RESPONSE TO THE TŪHOE RAIDS, ANNOUNCED FOR NATIONWIDE RELEASE ON FEBURARY 3RD 2022
On October 15th in 2007, with new anti-terrorism powers, the New Zealand Police swooped on the people of Tūhoe, raiding homes in the small town of Rūātoki in the Bay of Plenty, Aotearoa. Among the many arrested under suspicion of domestic terrorism was activist Tame Iti. Fourteen years on, award-winning filmmaker Tearepa Kahi, world renowned actor Cliff Curtis and artist Tame Iti announce their response to the event, with feature film Muru. The gripping action-drama is set for nationwide general release on February 3rd, 2022, in time for Waitangi Day.
Muru is a Māori concept for reconciliation and forgiveness. Written and directed by Tearepa Kahi (Poi E: The Story of our Song, Mt. Zion) and filmed in the Te Urewera and Rūātoki, Muru stars Cliff Curtis (The Dark Horse, Avatar 2), Jay Ryan (IT Chapter Two, The Furnace), Manu Bennett (The Hobbit trilogy) and Simone Kessell (Reckoning). Support cast includes Ria Te Uira Paki (The Dead Lands), Roimata Fox (Waru), Poroaki Merritt-McDonald (Savage) and Tame Iti as himself.
Tearepa Kahi’s previous feature films Mt. Zion and Poi E: The Story of our Song were both released on Waitangi Day, setting local box office records. Tearepa Kahi said Muru was made with “a Merata Mita and Geoff Murphy spirit, a Tame Iti authenticity and a Cliff Curtis commitment to craft.”
Kahi commented on the production process: “Shooting a film on location in Tūhoe during a pandemic brought an interesting set of challenges to our already challenging story, but the shared understanding and full support of local Tūhoe marae and kaumātua, cast and crew allowed us to move through the shoot at a deliberate pace and create characters with shape that we hope will create a deep cultural impact and speak truth to power.”
Lead Producer Reikura Kahi (Poi E: The Story of our Song) says Muru is a powerful and revealing te reo Māori language film with strong performances from a dream cast. Reikura Kahi continued: “Our most memorable day was when our cast and crew were welcomed on to Tuapou Marae, in the Waimana Valley. Listening to the waiata tangi and standing in silence beside the resting place of Rua Kēnana. Muru is not a re-creation of the events which occurred on October 15th, but a story which weaves the deep past and the recent present together, in order to reach a place, we need now more than ever, greater understanding.”
Kahi worked with cinematographer Fred Renata (Poi E: The Story of our Song, Mt. Zion), Academy Award winning editor John Gilbert (Hacksaw Ridge, The Lord of the Rings) and composer Mahuia Bridgman-Cooper (Shadow in the Cloud) to bring Muru to life and said working with Cliff Curtis was “a dream come true”. He continued: “An actor of Cliff’s abilities, being in constant international demand, plus coming out of the ‘Avatar 2’ shoot, I knew we had to put something to him that would allow him to really bite down and showcase all his skills.”
Executive Producer and lead actor Cliff Curtis commented: “We live in challenging times. Muru is a suitably wild ride in Tūhoe land. It reminds me that when the world goes crazy and things go wrong, then courage and love is what really matters in life. I am honoured to collaborate with Tearepa and Reikura because they are true champions of Māori story telling. They work with heart and guts and a deep respect and joy for our living heritage. As always they are committed to our unique and rich humanity in this latest touchstone Muru.”
Muru is the first feature film to be funded under Te Tumu Whakaata Taonga - New Zealand Film Commission’s He Pounamu Te Reo Māori Feature Film Fund under Te Rautaki Māori Strategy. Pouwhakahaere Te O Kahurangi Waaka says that the funds committed to make films with majority Te Reo Māori and that support Māori storytelling to reach domestic and global audiences have been long overdue, marking a significant milestone for the sector with the release of Muru. The film was made with additional investment from Arclight Films International, Te Māngai Pāho, NZ On Air/Irirangi Te Motu, Three (TBC), Imagezone and Images & Sound. The film is being distributed in New Zealand and Australia by Rialto Distribution, with Arclight Films International handling rest of world sales.
Muru will be released in cinemas nationwide on 3rd February 2022, for Waitangi Day.