ILLUSIONIST COSENTINO ANNOUNCES NZ DATES FOR 'DECENNIUM THE GREATEST HITS TOUR'

Australia's world-renowned illusionist and 'International Magician of the Year', COSENTINO, is bringing his spectacular new live show Decennium to Aotearoa this November and December!
 
The New Zealand tour kicks off Sunday November 24 at Christchurch’s Isaac Theatre Royal, before escaping to the Regent Theatre in Dunedin. The North Island leg magically appears at Wellington’s St James Theatre, New Plymouth’s TSB Showplace, before wrapping up the tour at Auckland’s Bruce Mason Centre.

Tickets go on sale to the General Public on Thursday, 20 June at 12pm. For full ticketing and show information, head to endeavour.live/cosentino.

Decennium is a 90-minute stage spectacular, which was written, produced, and choreographed by Cosentino. Watch as he performs his most death-defying escapes that will thrill your senses, his greatest mind-boggling stage illusions and cutting-edge street magic that twists your view of reality.

Cosentino’s trademark blend of dance and magic with a touch of hilarious audience participation will take you on a journey that will captivate fans, new and old, until the very last jaw-dropping moment.
 
Cosentino commented on his upcoming New Zealand tour: “It’s a great honour to bring my brand new stage production Decennium the Greatest Hits Tour to Aotearoa. This production is very dear to me as it represents everything I have achieved both professionally and personally over the last 10 years.”
 
A true entertainment trailblazer, Cosentino was the first Australian magician to have his own TV shows. He has written, produced and starred in eight highly successful prime-time specials, which have now been broadcast in over 40 countries and seen by over 500 million people. Cosentino is Australia’s most successful magician, illusionist and escape artist, he is quickly becoming a giant on the world stage.
 
His award-winning live touring shows have been staged to rave reviews and full houses in Australia, New Zealand, Singapore, Thailand, Vietnam, Macau and across South East Asia.
 
“I’m so proud of Decennium, it’s the best production I have ever created, and I can’t wait to perform it in your beautiful country.  My TV specials have always been hugely popular in Aotearoa, and I can’t wait for you all to come and see the magic happen live on stage.” says Cosentino.
 
A winner of multiple Merlin Awards, the highest accolades in the magic industry, Cosentino has been awarded both the ‘International Magician of the Year’ and the ‘International Escape Artist of the Year’. The Merlin Awards are presented by the International Magician's Society in New York and previous winners include David Copperfield, Criss Angel and Penn & Teller.
 
Cosentino has spent the last 12 months touring the record-breaking Decennium the Greatest Hits Tour to packed houses across the globe. And now it’s New Zealand’s turn.

COSENTINO DECENNIUM - THE GREATEST HITS TOUR

Isaac Theatre Royal, Christchurch
Sunday 24 November 2024 - Matinee
Sunday 24 November 2024 - Evening

Regent Theatre, Dunedin
Tuesday 26 November 2024 - Evening

St James Theatre, Wellington
Friday 29 November 2024 - Evening
Saturday 30 November 2024 - Matinee
Saturday 30 November 2024 - Evening

TSB Showplace, New Plymouth
Wednesday 4 December 2024 - Evening

Bruce Mason Centre, Auckland
Friday 6 December 2024 - Evening
Saturday 7 December 2024 - Matinee
Saturday 7 December 2024 - Evening
 

Ticket prices start from $69. Children (5-16 years) passes are available for $39. Full ticketing and tour information from endeavour.live/cosentino.

Public Enemy to Return to Aotearoa to kick off their ‘On The Grid 35th Anniversary Tour’

Hall of Fame inductees, Hip-Hop revolutionaries, and social rights activists Public Enemy have today announced a much-anticipated return to New Zealand for their ‘On The Grid 35th Anniversary Tour’ this coming October. Fighting the power with them will be none other than Aotearoa rapper, poet and singer from Avondale, MELODOWNZ.
 
The ‘On The Grid 35th Anniversary Tour’ heads to Auckland’s Trusts Arena for one-night only on October 15. General Public on sale is 10am on Tuesday 2 July.
 
Public Enemy was formed in 1985 in Long Island, New York, by friends Chuck D and Flavor Flav and their debut album, Yo! Bum Rush The Show (1987), laid the foundation for their revolutionary sound, blending assertive beats with sharp social commentary. Commencing as an opening act for the Beastie Boys, it was their sophomore effort, It Takes a Nation of Millions to Hold Us Back (1988), that catapulted them to international fame, helping them to collect a long list of accolades including induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2013. Their 1990 album Fear of a Black Planet that gave us the raucous Black anthem that defined a nation, ‘Fight the Power’.
 
Beyond their musical contributions, Public Enemy's impact extends to their activism and cultural influence. They were, and remain, at the forefront of the fight against racial injustice and inequality, using their platform to raise awareness and spark meaningful dialogue. From ground-breaking music videos to candid interviews, the group remains unapologetically vocal about issues affecting the community.
 
MELODOWNZ is proof that thought-provoking, lyrical rap is alive and here to stay, taking out three awards at the Pacific Music Awards in 2023: Best Male Artist, Best Music Video, and Best Music Album Award, along with a prestigious Aotearoa Music Award for Best Pacific Music Video.
 
Māori/Samoan artist MELODOWNZ has become a local community champion proudly taking New Zealand rap to the world stage and will join Long Island’s finest when they hit the stage in October.

Promoter, Venue & Ticketek Pre-Sale
Monday 1 July 10am (local time)
 
GP On Sale
Tuesday 2 July 10am (local)
 
TICKETS FOR THE PUBLIC ENEMY ‘ON THE GRID 35TH ANNIVERSARY TOUR’ GO ON SALE AT 10AM LOCAL TIME ON TUESDAY 2 JULY VIA TICKETEK NEW ZEALAND.
 
Presented By TEG MJR

PUBLIC ENEMY
NEW ZEALAND 2024
Featuring Melodownz as support

TUESDAY 15 OCTOBER - TRUSTS ARENA, AUCKLAND, NZ

LONDON'S LONGEST RUNNING IMMERSIVE THEATRE EXPERIENCE 'FAULTY TOWERS THE DINING EXPERIENCE' COMES TO AOTEAROA

A comedic culinary adventure like no other, the international smash-hit Faulty Towers The Dining Experience will embark on a tour of the North Island in September 2024 after entertaining audiences across the globe for over 27 years.
 
A loving tribute to Fawlty Towers, the BBC TV series written by John Cleese and Connie Booth, audiences step inside the television series and become part of the action itself.
 
Highly improvised, interactive and a fully immersive experience, audiences will enjoy an action filled and unforgettable night, with a delicious ‘70s-style three-course meal and 5-star comedy. Guests are not just audience members, but highly esteemed guests of Basil, Sybil, and Manuel
 
The longest running Fawlty Towers show of any kind worldwide was devised by Kiwi Alison Pollard-Mansergh, who is also the artistic director and writer of this show.
 
Alison says “The inspiration to start 'Faulty Towers The Dining Experience' came from work I was doing in New Zealand in the early 90s. I'm incredibly proud of the show's success and its connection to my homeland. I'm delighted that this tour includes both my hometown, Gisborne, and my University city, Palmerston North.”
 
Faulty Towers The Dining Experience is a globe-trotting tour-de-force that has been smashing records, and collecting accolades since its humble beginnings in 1997. Touring globally in 43 countries, and welcoming well over 1 million guests through its doors. 2023 saw the celebration of 15 years touring Europe, and now in 2024 the show celebrates 27 years of touring worldwide, and enters its 12th year of the highly successful West End residency in London.
 
This show is now the longest running immersive production, the longest running Fawlty Towers production in the West End, and the longest running show based on a TV series in the West End. It is also the longest-running Fawlty Towers production of any kind running worldwide.
 
This smash hit has been labelled “theatre at its startling best” (Best of Theatre, London West End) as the iconic trio brings the famous British BBC series to life in a dining experience like no other.
 
The cast for 2024 includes New Zealander Jed McKinney as Basil, Eilannin Harris-Black as Sybil and Michael Gonsalves as Manuel. Faulty Towers The Dining Experience is produced by Palmerston North local Jared Harford, who is from the only town to have named a rubbish dump after John Cleese - Mt Cleese.
 
Fawlty Towers, the BBC TV series scripts are not used in Faulty Towers The Dining Experience; this show uses its own original scripts and format.

 ‘A full-on feast for the funny bone’ Australian Stage
 
‘Hilarious’ ★★★★★ The West Australian
 
 ‘Seriously funny. An absolute blast’ ★★★★★ The Advertiser
 
 ‘An often outrageous and unpredictable slice of malarkey sure to please’ ★★★★★  GlamAdelaide
 
‘Exactly as one would imagine, a marvellously chaotic mess that will tickle you silly’ ★★★★★  London Theatre Reviews
 
‘The puns and ridiculous humour will have you in stitches’ ★★★★1/2  The Reviews Hub, London

FAULTY TOWERS THE DINING EXPERIENCE
 
Oaks Hotel, Wellington
12-13 September
 
Manawatu Golf Club, Palmerston North
14-15 September
 
The Old Church, Hawkes Bay
19 September
 
Tatapouri Fishing Club, Gisborne
20 September
 
Armitage Hotel, Tauranga
21-22 September
 
Irish Club, Auckland
24-29 September
 
Tickets can be booked at www.faultytowersnz.com 
Tickets from $85 per person
All tickets include a 3-course dinner and 2-hour interactive show

TRAILER AND POSTER RELEASED FOR KIWI ADVENTURE COMEDY BOOKWORM STARRING ELIJAH WOOD AND BREAKOUT STAR NELL FISHER

The poster and trailer for the big new adventure comedy film Bookworm have been unveiled ahead of its nationwide big screen release on August 8th. Shot on location in the Canterbury region, Bookworm stars acclaimed Hollywood actor Elijah Wood (Yellowjackets, Come to Daddy, The Lord of the Rings), alongside Kiwi breakout star Nell Fisher (Evil Dead Rise, Northspur).
 
The film follows washed-up American illusionist Strawn Wise (Wood) and his long-estranged precocious daughter Mildred (Fisher), who in the midst of a family crisis, venture into the New Zealand wilderness in search of a mythical black panther. Additional casting includes Michael Smiley (Obituary, Bad Sisters, Kill List), Vanessa Stacey (Out of the Blue, The Lord of the Rings) and Morgana O’Reilly (Friends Like Her, set to star in the upcoming season of White Lotus).
 
Bookworm is directed by Ant Timpson (Come to Daddy), and co-written by Timpson and Toby Harvard (Come to Daddy). The pair wrote the film with Elijah Wood in mind, who jumped at the chance to shoot a film in New Zealand and to reunite with the creative team behind Come to Daddy.
 
“There was a joy in shooting a film almost entirely on location in the Canterbury region too - a unique experience in itself. Bookworm’s story is hilarious, heartwarming and touching - I hope audiences love it,” commented Elijah Wood.
 
Director Ant Timpson said: “This fun adventure about two endearing oddballs bonding in the great New Zealand outdoors offers the perfect escapism on the big screen. We had a blast making it with our super talented cast and crew, and now it’s time to release Bookworm into the wild for everyone to check out.”
 
Production searched far and wide when casting Mildred’s character, auditioning more than 300 children, but when Timpson saw Nell Fisher, he said it was a no brainer: “She’s just phenomenal. Nell has that rare quality that comes alive on screen, inhabiting a character from top to toe. She’s going to be a major talent. Watch this space.”
 
Fisher said returning to New Zealand to shoot Bookworm was a special experience: “It was my first time in Canterbury and it was absolutely breathtaking. Working with Elijah Wood was such a privilege. He’s such a funny guy and an amazing actor - I learnt a lot from him. Bookworm is a lovely, fun story - I hope audiences enjoy the journey watching it. We certainly had fun making it.”
 
Bookworm is produced by Emma Slade (Uproar, Mister Organ), Roxi Bull (Uproar, The Justice of Bunny King), Victoria Dabbs (Uproar, Sunshine on Leith), Mette-Marie Kongsved (I Don’t Feel at Home in This World Anymore, Come to Daddy) and Laura Turnstall (Lemonade, Get Duked!).
 
The film was made with financing from the Te Tumu Whakaata Taonga New Zealand Film Commission, New Zealand Screen Production Rebate, Talon Entertainment, Orogen Entertainment, Screen Canterbury and Images and Sound. The film is distributed in New Zealand and Australia by Rialto Distribution. Rialto Distribution has released over 35 local films theatrically over the previous 30 years, including box office hit Muru which was the highest grossing local film of 2022.

FIRST IMAGE UNVEILED FOR PIKE RIVER FILM STARRING MELANIE LYNSKEY AND ROBYN MALCOLM

A first look image has today been released for Pike River: a major dramatic NZ feature film based on the Pike River Mine tragedy that took the lives of 29 men underground. In cinemas nationwide later this year, the film marks the return home to New Zealand of three-time Emmy nominee Melanie Lynskey (Yellow Jackets, The Last of Us, Heavenly Creatures), working alongside acclaimed NZ actress Robyn Malcolm (After the Party, Far North, Outrageous Fortune). 
 
Lynskey plays Anna Osborne, with Malcom playing Sonya Rockhouse, two women who lost men in the mine and have become prominent in the families’ fight for justice and accountability.  Also featured are  Lucy Lawless (My Life Is Murder, Xena: Warrior Princess) playing unionist Helen Kelly and Tim Gordon (The Kick) as Pike Family Committee spokesperson Bernie Monk.  
 
The film features a large cast of over 40 New Zealand actors depicting miners, Pike families and the wider West Coast community, as well as those the families engaged with in their ongoing fight for justice. Pike families have actively assisted the production and some feature as extras in the film.
 
Directed by award-winning NZ Director Rob Sarkies (Out of the Blue, Consent: The Louise Nicholas Story, Scarfies), and written by Fiona Samuel (Consent, Bliss, Piece of My Heart), the film captures the profound impact on the community of one of the worst mining disasters in Aotearoa New Zealand’s history. 
 
Director Rob Sarkies commented: “I couldn’t be more thrilled to have actors of Melanie and Robyn’s  calibre in the film.  Their outstanding performances will remind audiences everywhere of the human cost of these kind of events, as well as the importance of fighting for what you believe is right.  Our entire cast and crew were inspired by the courage of the Pike River families and have worked so hard to do their story justice.” 
 
Shot on location in Māwhera, Greymouth, Te Whangaui A Tara Wellington and Tāmaki Makaurau Auckland, Pike River is produced by Vicky Pope (Savage, Went Up The Hill, Gardening with Soul) and Timothy White (Muru, Out of the Blue The Dark Horse) with Executive Producers Melanie Lynskey, Robyn Malcolm, Paul Wiegard, Paul Gough, James Dean, Jennifer Sutton, Doug Gold, William Watson and Rob Sarkies. Madman will distribute theatrically in New Zealand and Australia, with Signature Entertainment UK handling international sales. The film has been made in association with the New Zealand Film Commission, NZ On Air, Three, the New Zealand Screen Production Rebate, Park Road Post Production and Fulcrum Media Finance.

SYNTHONY ANNOUNCES WORLD-FIRST NEW SHOW: SYNTHONY PRIDE

A music event like no other, SYNTHONY is set to capture hearts and minds again with a world-first new show, “SYNTHONY PRIDE” on Saturday the 3rd of August at Auckland’s Spark Arena, celebrating LGBTQIA+ communities, artists, performers & anthems. SYNTHONY PRIDE aims to honour the queer impact on dance music and nightlife, paying homage to the development of house music and pop anthems.
 
The much-loved SYNTHONY brand promises an all-new set list of 30 Pride inspired tracks covering music by Kylie Minogue, Beyonce, Lady Gaga, Sam Smith, Martin Solveig, Madonna, Sophie Ellis-Bextor, Calvin Harris, and more, plus some classic SYNTHONY bangers.
 
An extraordinary experience for the 10,000 people who will attend, SYNTHONY PRIDE will reimagine the world’s biggest dance and pop anthems with the power of the Auckland Philharmonia, Auckland’s professional orchestra, along with instrumentalists, guest vocalists and artists, including, Boh Runga, Harper Finn, Kita Mean, Jordan Eskra, Jujulipps, Anita Wig’lit, Paige, Hugo Grrrl, Greg Gould, Mean Gurls, Miss Geena, David Fung and more to be announced.
 
SYNTHONY PRIDE will be an unforgettable night for all music fans and a celebration of the vibrant and inclusive spirit of the rainbow community.
 
"I'm absolutely thrilled to be part of creating the SYNTHONY PRIDE show. SYNTHONY stands as the ultimate celebration of dance music in NZ, and I'm deeply honoured that the entire SYNTHONY team acknowledges and embraces the vibrant influence of gay culture on nightlife and dance music! It is a huge moment!” Jordan Eskra, Creative Director of SYNTHONY PRIDE, Director of Theta Project.

“Some of the best parties I’ve DJed over the last 20+ years have been rainbow events, from the early days of the Hero parties, to annual Pride events. So, when I took on the role as music director for SYNTHONY I really wanted to do a party that embraces the music and culture of the rainbow community and of course reimagine some of those iconic Pride anthems with our orchestra. Working hand in hand with members of the Rainbow community, our team has been working overtime to craft the new SYNTHONY PRIDE setlist, featuring 30 brand-new tracks and the same high-octane magic that fans always expect," says Dick Johnson, SYNTHONY Music Director.
 
SYNTHONY PRIDE, presented by Manuka Pharm and produced and promoted by Duco Touring will deliver a completely reinvented SYNTHONY arena experience like no other.

MANUKA PHARM PRESENTS
SYNTHONY PRIDE
SPARK ARENA - SATURDAY 3 AUGUST 2024
 
FEATURING
Auckland Philharmonia, conducted by Sarah-Grace Williams
 
VOCALISTS, INSTRUMENTALISTS & ENTERTAINERS
Boh Runga
Harper Finn
Kita Mean
Jordan Eskra
Paige
Jujulipps
Anita Wig’lit
Hugo Grrrl
Greg Gould
Mean Gurls
Miss Geena
David Fung
 
Plus, more to be announced
 
SYNTHONY PRE-SALE starts at 10AM TUESDAY 14 MAY
Register for waitlist access at synthony.com
 
GENERAL ON SALE starts at 10AM WEDNESDAY 15 MAY
 
Follow / Subscribe SYNTHONY
Instagram | Facebook | YouTube

BELOW DECK MEDITERRANEAN'S CAPTAIN SANDY TO COME TO NZ FOR HAYU

The brand-new season of Below Deck Mediterranean will be available to stream first on Hayu from June 4 – ad-free and same day as the USA – and airing on Bravo New Zealand from June 20 at 8.30pm NZST.
 
Returning for season 9, Captain Sandy Yawn is joined by proud Kiwi and franchise-favorite Chief Stew Aesha Scott, who returns to the Med where her yachting career began. A familiar face from the last charter of season six, Elena Dubaich returns as one of the two stews alongside newbie Bri Muller. Additional new crew members include Chef Johnathan Shillingford, Bosun Iain Maclean, and Deckhands Joe Bradley, Nathan Gallager and Gael Cameron.   
 
To celebrate the new season, Hayu is bringing Captain Sandy Yawn to New Zealand for a publicity tour in Auckland this June. Now in her ninth season as Captain on Below Deck Mediterranean, Captain Sandy is looking forward to visiting New Zealand to promote the new season on Hayu. 
 
When asked about her upcoming trip, Captain Sandy commented, “This will be my first time visiting Auckland, so I am thrilled to be traveling to New Zealand with Hayu. The new season of Below Deck Mediterranean will see the crew and I navigate the waters of Athens and face new challenges along the way. It’s jam-packed with drama and definitely one you won’t want to miss!”
 
Coming up this season:
 
The azure waters and ancient ruins of Athens, Greece set the scene as Captain Sandy returns to steer her team through a season brimming with fresh and formidable challenges. Between eccentric guests, an abundance of late-night demands that require intervention and a never-before-seen mechanical issue that orders all hands on deck, the crew faces tumultuous waves from the start.   
  
Back on board the 180-foot M/Y Mustique, a series of initial hurdles sets the crew off on the wrong foot. Amidst a saga of delayed provisions, managing a complicated interior department and a medical emergency, Aesha strives to ensure the guests are treated to a five-star service experience. Chef Jono, a self-taught culinary architect, quickly learns he has high expectations to fill to prove his culinary capabilities to the guests. Meanwhile, the deck crew faces its own hurdles and must learn that communication is key in order to successfully get through the season.  
  
This season’s boatmances stir up waves of tension as two crewmates find themselves with their sights set on a mutual love interest causing disruptions among departments. A personal relationship also tests a deckhand’s budding romance, leading them to make a tough decision.   
  
Finally, to round out the season, Captain Sandy orchestrates the surprise of a lifetime for her partner, Leah, that leaves everyone in tears. 
 
Below Deck Mediterranean is produced by 51 Minds. Nadine Rajabi, Wes Denton, Mark Cronin, Shane Maroufkhani, Tania Hamidi, Ryan Braun, Christian Sarabia and Zachary Klein executive produce. 
 
Stream the brand-new season of Below Deck Mediterranean first on Hayu from June 4, the same day as the USA and airing on Bravo from June 20.

A RECORD BREAKING YEAR FOR THE ASB CLASSIC

This year’s ASB Classic in Tāmaki Makaurau, Auckland not only featured some of the world’s top tennis players, it also broke records across the board, with the premier tournament seeing unparalleled ticket sales, broadcast numbers, sponsorship sales and money raised for Youthline.
 
An impressive mix of both global stars and emerging talent provided world-class tennis, with the likes of Grand Slam winner Coco Gauff, former world No. 1 Caroline Wozniacki, Tennis super-couple Gaël Monfils and Elina Svitolina, and rising stars Arthur Fils, Felix Auger-Aliassime and the new US number one, Ben Shelton, competing.
 
The event once again brought significant economic benefit to its host region, resulting in 16,600 visitor nights to the region and injecting $3.4 million into the economy.

ASB Executive Manager Commercial Partnerships Mark Graham says: “Every year the ASB Classic attracts thousands of domestic and international visitors to the Auckland region and to New Zealand, to compete, support the players or simply enjoy the on-court action. This brings an important boost to local businesses, from hospitality to transport, to retail and other attractions, and a real buzz to the summer calendar.” 

Ticket sales for the event were higher than ever before, up around 5% on the previous record set in 2020 and up 8% compared with 2023.

The 2024 event also marked a record number of partners, with the  addition of Lexus, Aperol, Grey Goose, Gwen by Church Road, Go Media, Ryman and TAB. 
 
Broadcast audiences were also the biggest on record, with an increase on both domestic reach and viewer hours for Sky NZ. The international broadcast saw a global audience of more than 12 million, with the top markets outside of New Zealand being the U.S.A, Latin America, Pan Asia and Serbia. Total hours of broadcast for both linear and digital was more than 3,000.
 
Tournament Director Nicolas Lamperin comments: “The results of the ASB Classic underline our commitment to continuously improve its reputation as a world-class tennis event which provides global exposure to Auckland and New Zealand as a whole. Not only does it deliver unparalleled economic impact, it also creates memorable experience for players and spectators alike and continue to inspire and positively impact the lives of the next generation of players.”
 
A series of initiatives, including the ball throwing competition Lobbo, allowed the ASB Classic to raise a significant $55,000 for Youthline to continue their support towards young people in Aotearoa.
 
The 2024 event also marked record sales for sponsorship, with the addition of Lexus, Aperol, Grey Goose, Gwen by Church Road, Go Media, Ryman and TAB.
 
The ASB Classic continued to serve its purpose to promote tennis within the community. This was highlighted in January through Coco Gauff’s visit to Te Atatu Tennis Club and through the wheelchair activation on Centre Court.
 
Looking ahead, next year’s ASB Classic is set to be bigger and better than ever, with player announcements and more information to follow in the coming months.

UC CELEBRATES EXCLUSIVE WITH WALLACE AND GROMIT CREATORS

Te Whare Wānanga o Waitaha | University of Canterbury (UC) have signed a multi-year agreement with the training arm of Academy Award® winning Aardman Animations.

In a move with the potential to redefine the animation landscape in Aotearoa New Zealand, an exclusive agreement between UC and the Aardman Academy will see the University become the only educational institution in New Zealand and the Pacific territories to specialise in Aardman stop-motion animation. 

The expertise available through Aardman, the animation studio behind Wallace and Gromit, Shaun the Sheep and Morph, is particularly exciting for animation students under UC’s popular Bachelor of Digital Screen with Honours, as it creates the rare opportunity to receive training both in their chosen specialty, and directly from industry leaders.  

“It’s incredibly exciting to welcome the University of Canterbury as an educational partner with the Aardman Academy,” says Mark Simon Hewis, Head of the Aardman Academy, the training arm of the world-renowned stop-motion studio.  

“Canterbury is our first and only educational partner in New Zealand and the Pacific Islands, so our relationship and activities in the coming years are even more special. We can’t wait to get going with world-leading animation insight, support and learning from our Aardman staff and Aardman Academy team.”  

Created at a time when the studio desperately needed more animators to produce Chicken Run, which went on to become the highest-grossing stop-motion film of all time, the Aardman Academy has trained hundreds of world-class animators, directors, model makers and more, globally.  

The collaborative agreement came to fruition through Kōawa, the newly rebranded initiative from UC, formerly known as Digital Screen Campus.   

The name Kōawa draws inspiration from Waitaha Canterbury’s vast braided rivers, a visual representation of the converged industries at the center of the University’s vision, which aspires to co-create the future of the global screen and creative technology sectors through collaboration, innovation and education.  

Kōawa will enable the University to provide its Bachelor of Digital Screen (Hons) students with regular access and exposure to a high caliber of industry partners, like Aardman.  

“We want to ensure our graduates are not just exploring what is happening in the creative technology sectors,” explains initiative Director, Sam Witters. “The partnerships Kōawa brings to the University will ensure our students have a finger on the pulse of future trends of the industries into which they’ll graduate and work.” 

The different ways the interconnected screen industries engage with storytelling helped the University form the foundation for Kōawa, says Executive Dean of Arts, Professor Kevin Watson.  

“It was built on the idea of the convergence between education and industry, creating an ecosystem where students learn from both academic experts and industry partners, ensuring we produce graduates with the creative and technical skills employers need to grow the sector and change the world through storytelling.”  

UC is already home to a cinematic landmark with its Ilam Homestead playing a pivotal role in Peter Jackson’s 1994 masterpiece, Heavenly Creatures. 

Now, 30 years later, UC is poised to introduce the country’s next generation of industry leaders. 

JIMMY BARNES ANNOUNCES HIS RETURN TO THE STAGE FOR THE “HELL OF A TIME” NEW ZEALAND TOUR

Jimmy Barnes has announced his much anticipated return to touring, heading to Christchurch, Wellington, New Plymouth and Auckland in July, following open heart surgery late last year.

Jimmy was admitted to hospital on 27 November last year with bacterial pneumonia. Treatment was commenced immediately however he became very unwell while in hospital with the development of staphylococcal bacteraemia a few days after admission. Further investigations showed that he had an abscess at an old operation site due to the staph infection which required surgical intervention.

Unfortunately, the staph infection continued to progress causing endocarditis, a life threatening condition that without urgent treatment may well have been fatal. This affected his aortic valve requiring urgent cardiac surgery to replace it on 13 December.

It’s now been a little over three months since the surgery and as fans have seen through his social media posts, his road to recovery has been nothing short of phenomenal and doctors have now given him the all clear to ramp up his exercise routine in preparation for hitting the road.

Jimmy said, “I’m excited about getting back on stage, in front of the band and playing for my Kiwi mates. I really want to thank everyone for their support and good wishes while I was ill. The family were passing on your messages of care and it really lifted my spirits.”

Jimmy’s first show back since the surgery was an early evening, unique performance at Bluesfest in Byron Bay on Easter Sunday celebrating the 30th anniversary of the release of his Flesh and Wood album.

“Last weekend we did our first show back after surgery at the Byron Bay Blues festival. It was so much fun to get back on stage again that we tore the place apart. I can’t wait to bring the Hell of a Time show to New Zealand so you guys can come and join in on all the fun” continues Jimmy.

After quickly selling out the Australian tour Jimmy’s New Zealand tour will be something special, celebrating the anniversary of the Flesh and Wood album along with his extensive catalogue of hits.

Flesh and Wood was Jimmy’s seventh solo album and entered the New Zealand charts at #9 in December 1993. It went on to garner triple platinum sales, spending five weeks in the Top 50. Flesh and Wood featured duets with the likes of Joe Cocker, Diesel, Ross Wilson, Don Walker, The Badloves and Archie Roach, with four singles released from the album: The Weight, a Top 10 hit, followed by You Can’t Make Love Without A Soul, Still Got A Long Way To Go and It Will Be Alright.

Jimmy said “The Hell of a Time Tour is shaping up to be something special. It’s going to be intimate and it's going to be a lot of fun. I’m going to play a bunch of my favourite tunes – and when songs are this good it's great to strip them back to the bare bones and really tell the stories. We think it's going to feel like you guys are sitting in our lounge room. I know you’ll love it.”

Bloodlines are releasing a limited edition sand-coloured vinyl reissue of Flesh and Wood, celebrating 30 years since the release of Jimmy’s much-loved seventh solo studio album. All vinyl copies will be personally signed by Jimmy and are available for pre-order now from here.

Jimmy said, “I’ve visited all my doctors now and they all tell me the same thing. I am ready to rock. I’ve been in my gym every day (sometimes twice a day) and I feel fitter and stronger with each passing day. My band are chomping at the bit and just like me, they can’t wait to hit the stage. So bring on the tour! Get your tickets soon because it seems a lot of you are keen to come out and celebrate with us and I wouldn’t want you to miss out. See you on the road.”

2X GRAMMY AWARD WINNER LAUREN DAIGLE BRINGS THE KALEIDOSCOPE NIGHTS TOUR DOWN UNDER

This November, 2x GRAMMY Award Winner and multi-platinum selling artist LAUREN DAIGLE will expand her critically acclaimed headline tour, The Kaleidoscope Nights Tour, to New Zealand.  The two new dates will mark Daigle’s first shows down under in nearly five years. Kicking off in Auckland, New Zealand on 4 November, The Kaleidoscope Nights Tour will also stop in Christchurch, New Zealand on Wednesday 6 November.
 
Tickets will officially go on sale 10 April at 12pm from livenation.co.nz.
 
Mastercard cardholders have special access to presale tickets in New Zealand starting from Friday 5 April, 11am until Tuesday 9 April, 11am. Preferred ticket access is available to Mastercard cardholders in New Zealand on Wednesday 10 April, 12pm. Visit www.priceless.com/music to find out more.
 
My Live Nation members may also secure tickets first during the pre-sale beginning Tuesday 9 April 12pm.
 
For complete tour, ticket and VIP Experience information, visit: livenation.co.nz.
 
The Kaleidoscope Nights Tour first began in September 2023, following the release of Daigle’s GRAMMY Nominated self-titled album. Due to popular demand and sold-out performances across the country, the tour has been extended through 2024 including dates in Europe and a summer amphitheater run dubbed The Kaleidoscope Nights Tour.  The show features many of Daigle’s #1s including her groundbreaking 6x Platinum smash “You Say,” 2x Platinum hit “Rescue,” “Look Up Child,” and her latest Gold certified No.1 and GRAMMY Nominated “Thank God I Do.”
 
Lauren Daigle is a two-time Grammy®, seven-time Billboard Music, four-time American Music, and twelve-time GMA Dove Music Award winner.  Since the release of her GRAMMY® Award-winning, 2x platinum-certified 2018 album Look Up Child, which included the 6x platinum-certified hit “You Say,” Daigle has been a mainstay on the Billboard charts. When Look Up Child debuted at No. 3 on the Top 200 Albums chart, Daigle became the first female artist in history to simultaneously hit the Top 10 on both Billboard’s Pop and Christian Album charts. Her recent GRAMMY Nominated and Mike Elizondo-produced, 23-song, self-titled album’s debut single, “Thank God I Do,” gave Daigle her 6th Billboard No. 1 and was recently certified Gold. She’s garnered over a billion streams and wowed crowds for years with sold-out US and international tours. Daigle continues to cement her status as a modern vocal powerhouse with a huge global fanbase.

LAUREN DAIGLE 
THE KALEIDOSCOPE NIGHTS TOUR

 
CHRISTCHURCH TOWN HALL, CHRISTCHURCH           MONDAY NOVEMBER 4
KIRI TE KANAWA THEATRE, AUCKLAND                 WEDNESDAY NOVEMBER 6
 
TICKETS ON SALE 12PM WEDNESDAY 10 APRIL

Mastercard presale: Friday April 5, 11am local – Tuesday April 9, 11am local
Live Nation presale: Tuesday April 9, 12pm local
 
For complete tour, ticket and VIP Experience information, visit: laurendaigle.com & www.livenation.co.nz
CONNECT WITH LAUREN DAIGLE
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NZ MUSIC T-SHIRT DAY RETURNS ON FRIDAY 3 MAY

MusicHelps annual fundraising initiative NZ Music T-Shirt Day is taking place on Friday 3rd May 2024 as part of NZ Music Month. NZ Music T-Shirt Day is all about celebrating great New Zealand music, raising awareness for the important work of MusicHelps and showing your support by sporting your favourite artists or band tee.  

NZ Music T-Shirt Day raises funds for MusicHelps, a charity that helps the most vulnerable in our communities by supporting projects that use the power of music to help and heal. This includes music therapy sessions, music programs in respite and palliative care, music education programs for the at-risk and vulnerable and rehabilitation programs to name a few. They also provide free professional counselling and emergency financial wellbeing support to kiwi music workers. Since inception, they have positively impacted the lives of over 90,000 people across Aotearoa.  

New Zealand Music T Shirt Day is primed to become a favourite fundraising event during NZ Music Month. This year’s event will raise much needed funds for grants to those who use music to help and heal as well as support the music community with whatever challenge they may face into the future.

Gather your friends, whānau and workplace, create a team, spread the message, and donate by visiting www.nzmusictshirtday.org.nz or texting MUSIC to 2448 to donate $3. 
 

The NZ Music T Shirt Day action is easy: 

MusicHelps supports initiatives and provides grants to a variety of communities across Aotearoa, from Whanganui to Tamaki Makaurau, Hamilton to Dunedin, Wellington to Whangārei. Some highlights of communities that Musichelps has supported this year include: 

- Swan Nest in Wellington, a charity providing therapy, support and advocacy for children who are living with complex health conditions or terminal illness and their families. MusicHelps supports their Music Therapy programme, which provides children with tools to make sense of the world they are living in, in a fun and meaningful way.

- The Music4us Puoro Mō Taatou Music Education Trust in Dunedin which gives ‘at-risk’ youth access to music education and tuition; including them in a community that celebrates the cultures and communities of those involved.

- Whanganui’s Other Orchestra - who have been running since 2015 - run weekly sessions led by a facilitator and invited music guests. They provide a safe musical environment to people from all walks of life, especially those disadvantaged by health, disability, social or financial circumstances.

- The KiwiOra Community Trust in Auckland, who provide a ‘Notes of Hope’ outreach programme collaborating with experienced musicians, providing music lessons to rangatahi from families with limited financial means. They encourage musical performance and serve as a platform for giving disaffected youth dignity and purpose.

MusicHelps is also pleased to have recently announced our firstMusicHelps Music Therapy AwardtoKate Owen.The award is for wāhine identifying students who have been accepted into the Master of Music Therapy Programme at Victoria University. Presented in collaboration withRaukatauri Music Therapy TrustandThe Kate Edger Educational Charitable Trust, the recipient of the award received an $8,000 scholarship for one year of study, and if they are in their second year of study, the award will include a supported student placement with the Raukatauri Music Therapy Trust. 

From singers to sound engineers, managers to musicians, MusicHelps service is available to anyone involved in the Aotearoa music industry to ensure people are taken care of when they need it most. Initiatives such as the annual New Zealand Music T-Shirt Day are vital to ensure Musichelps can not only celebrate the array of talented musicians we have throughout Aotearoa, but to continuously deliver their grants and services to anyone and everyone -  the very people that bring us the music we love, and all those around it.

For a full list of kiwi bands and artists who are currently selling merchandise online, please head to:https://www.nzmusictshirtday.org.nz/t-shirts-and-merchandise 

If you are lacking a NZ band tee (or struggling to make a decision!) please visit: www.nzmusicmonth.co.nz/buy-nz-music-month-merchandise/

THE FANTASTICAL LABYRINTH OF COLOUR AND LIGHT, ARBORIALIS LUMINARIUM, RETURNS TO AOTEAROA THESE SCHOOL HOLIDAYS

From Saturday 13 to Sunday 28 April, Auckland Live in association with Insite Arts brings the highly popular ARBORIALIS Luminarium, a colourful inflatable labyrinth created by Alan Parkinson of Architects of Air, to Aotearoa. The astonishing multisensory experience for all ages will take place at Auckland’s Aotea Square. ARBORIALIS Luminarium echoes aspects of being lost in a forest – with many radiant canopies of leaves that stretch overhead accompanied by an immersive, ambient score by Irish composer Dr Michael Morris.
 
From the Guggenheim in Spain to the Sydney Opera House in Australia, the monumental interactive walk-in sculptures from Architects of Air have astounded audiences across the globe.

A luminarium is a dazzling inflatable maze of winding paths and soaring domes where visitors can be immersed in an amazing world of light and hues for a unique sensory experience. Many people find a luminarium a place for rest or meditation.
 
The luminarium that will be displayed at Aotea Square – ARBORIALIS - is half the size of a football pitch and dedicated to the theme of trees. There are radiant canopies of leaves that stretch overhead and vibrant tree trunks rising from the ground beneath. The main dome sees a leaf motif in a magnificent arch that references the form of the Islamic Mosque domes as a primary source of inspiration from designer Alan Parkinson. The visual world of ARBORIALIS Luminarium is enhanced by the natural and spiritual sounds of the Song of Danu (a Celtic goddess).
 
Past visitor's perceptions of the luminarium experience have provoked comments such as
“It felt like living in a painting” or “being inside a spaceship”. The luminarium is wheelchair accessible, and children under the age of 16 must be accompanied by an adult, with a minimum of 1 adult for up to 4 children. ARBORIALIS Luminarium will provide an excellent family day out in the city - the wonderful maze-like structure of light and colour will enthral the kids these school holidays!
 
It has been nine years since Architects of Air were last in Auckland, with their previous work Arboria proving popular at Aotea Square in the September 2015 school holidays. In January 2024, Arborialis was displayed at the Christchurch Buskers Festival, giving Ōtautahi a taste of what Aucklanders can now expect during these school holidays.
 

ARBORIALIS LUMINARIUM
Saturday 13 – Sunday 28 April
Opening times: Monday –Wednesday: 11am – 5pm | Thursday – Sunday: 9am – 5pm (last admission)
Aotea Square

HOZIER ANNOUNCES ‘UNREAL UNEARTH’ 2024 NEW ZEALAND TOUR WITH SPECIAL GUEST JOY OLADOKUN

Live Nation is excited to announce the highly anticipated return of global superstar Hozier to Aotearoa shores this coming November, performing shows here for the first time since 2019.

The Grammy-nominated, award-winning multi-platinum singer and songwriter and his band play two arena dates across the country on Wednesday November 20 at Spark Arena in Tāmaki Makaurau Auckland, and Wolfbrook Arena in Ōtautahi Christchurch on Friday November 22.

Presented in partnership with More FM, tickets for all shows go on sale at 12pm local, Monday March 18.

Mastercard cardholders in New Zealand have special access to presale and preferred tickets from 11am local Wednesday 13 March. Visit www.priceless.com/music to find out more.

 
One NZ customers can be among the first to secure tickets during a 48 hour presale for all New Zealand shows, starting 11am local Wednesday 13 March. Head to one.nz/rewards

My Live Nation members can secure tickets during the exclusive presale at 12pm local, Friday March 15 – 11am local, Monday March 18.

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

With over 22 billion global streams, numerous platinum album certifications, multiple award nominations and wins, Hozier is recognised as one of the foremost singer-songwriters of our generation.

Driven by the thought-provoking seven time platinum anthem ‘Take Me To Church’, Hozier’s self-titled full-length debut bowed at #2 on the Billboard Top 200 and went on to achieve five time platinum status in New Zealand. Featuring the hit singles ‘Take Me To Church’, and ‘Someone New’, it enjoyed nine weeks at #1 in his native Ireland and rose to #3 on the New Zealand album charts, also achieving multi-platinum sales.

The follow up to Hozier’s debut album, ‘Wasteland, Baby!’ was released to massive critical acclaim in March 2019, entering the US Billboard Top 200 Chart at #1. The multi-platinum selling album’s 14 tracks (all original Hozier compositions) marked a major development in songwriting and subject matter and included the singles ‘Nina Cried Power’, ‘Movement’, ‘Almost (Sweet music)’, ‘Would That I’ and ‘Dinner and Diatribes’.

August 2023 saw Hozier release his third studio album ‘Unreal Unearth’ which delivered the singles ‘Eat Your Young’, ‘Francesca’, ‘De Selby (Part 2)’ and ‘All Things End’ and has been described as ‘an album brimming with brilliance’, and ‘one of the most enchanting albums of 2023’.  An extensive world tour kicked off after the release which included sold out shows across the US, Europe and the UK, and a string of International Festival dates and more headline shows in 2024. 

November 2024 Hozier will bring his highly successful ‘Unreal Unearth’ tour to New Zealand and will be joined by special guest American singer songwriter Joy Oladokun.

HOZIER - UNREAL UNEARTH TOUR

  WITH SPECIAL GUEST JOY OLADOKUN

SPARK ARENA, AUCKLAND                            WEDNESDAY NOVEMBER 20

WOLFBROOK ARENA, CHRISTCHURCH         FRIDAY NOVEMBER 22

FOLLOW HOZIER:

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Cigarettes After Sex Announce World Arena Tour + New LP, Share "Tejano Blue" Single

New Zealand date confirmed at Spark Arena in Auckland on Wednesday 19 March 2025 

Today, Cigarettes After Sex announce their new LP, titled X's (due 12 July), alongside their upcoming world tour, which features shows at some of the globe's most iconic venues, like Madison Square Garden and London's O2, with more Asia, South America and Middle East shows to be announced at a later date. 
 
Filled with raw, imagistic, sometimes smutty vignettes set to entrancing, slowburn pop songs, bandleader Greg Gonzalez captures every emotion a romantic arc inspires. But where previous albums have drawn from an amalgam of relationships, for the most part, X’s centralizes on just one relationship that spanned four years.
 
“The record feels brutal,” admits Gonzalez. “I could sit and talk about this loss to someone, but that wouldn’t scratch the surface. I have to really write about it, sing about it, have the music, and then I can start to analyze and learn from it. Or just relive it—in a good way. I don’t have that Eternal Sunshine-thing of wanting to forget.” 
 
While continuing to observe classic pop song structures, Gonzalez has moved away from the prior sonic touchstones of the ‘50s and ‘60s, finding himself now drawn to a ‘70s/’80s slow dance. While (in typical Cigarettes style) these changes may be subtle, the overall resulting energy is akin to disco ball-refracted tears on the dance floor. 
 
Today also marks the release of the record's first single, “Tejano Blue”, a nod to the music of bandleader Greg Gonzalez’s Texas childhood, resulting in the most instantly memorable version (and liveliest tempo) yet of the band’s signature sensual, timeless, love songs. 
 
Gonzalez explains: “I grew up in El Paso & Tejano music is huge there. You could go to a lot of the bars in the city & hear artists like Selena, Los Ángeles Azules & La Mafia playing over the speakers. It was in the atmosphere around me back then, but I always rejected it & gravitated towards anything else I was attracted to really. 
 
“Years later when I was living in New York City I finally started listening to Selena’s ‘Como La Flor’ at the same time that I was also listening to a lot of Cocteau Twins. I had the idea then to try to combine both of their sounds somehow, which felt a bit strange, but also felt like it was coming from a genuine place of rediscovering & finally connecting with the music that I heard around me in my youth.” 
 
"Tejano Blue" is available today via All DSPs, and Cigarettes After Sex's new LP, X's, is out July 12th via Partisan Records.
 
My Live Nation members can be among the first to secure tickets to the New Zealand show during the exclusive presale starting 10am, Wednesday 6 March. Tickets go on sale at 10am, Friday 8 March. For complete tour and ticketing info, visit: livenation.co.nz
 
CRS and Live Nation in association with 95bFM present Cigarettes After Sex. Touring New Zealand in March 2025.
 

CIGARETTES AFTER SEX X’S WORLD TOUR DATES
NEW ZEALAND
 
SPARK ARENA, AUCKLAND – WEDNESDAY 19 MARCH 2025