RHYTHM AND VINES TURNS UP THE HEAT WITH FIRST DROP OF ACTS COMING TO GISBORNE ICE SPICE, SAMMY VIRJI, LUUDE, RL GRIME, MEDUZA, KOVEN, THE RETURN OF SIR DAVE DOBBYN & MORE

New Year’s in Gisborne just got a whole lot hotter with the first announcement of acts heading to the most isolated region of the country. Headliners heading to Gisborne for the final four days of 2024 include NYC rapper ICE SPICE, UK garage and house producer SAMMY VIRJI, Italian electronic supergroup MEDUZA, British electronic producers KOVEN and the return of American record producer RL GRIME. Local festival favourites include the return of SIR DAVE DOBBYN, SACHI, hometown hero MESSIE and debut performance from the award winning CORRELLA.
 
The first release of acts includes:
 
ICE SPICE, SAMMY VIRJI, LUUDE, RL GRIME, KOVEN, MEDUZA, BADGER, CHARLOTTE PLANK, CORRELLA, GIRLS DON'T SYNC, HANNAH LAING, JOY (ANONYMOUS) [LIVE], JYOTY, OPPIDAN, PANJABI MC, SACHI, ANAÏS, BUSHBABY, CASSIE HENDERSON, CASUAL HEALING, D.O.D, DADA JONES, ELIPSA, FISH56OCTAGON, FREDRICK, GRAFIX, KLP, LENS, MESSIE, PIRAPUS, ROVA, SUBSONIC, UNGLUED, BECCIE B, CARU, CIKO, FRANKIE VENTER, HATRICK, HYAN, JESS RHODES, MINCY, VITAMIN COS & returning to Waiohika Estate SIR DAVE DOBBYN
 
ICE SPICE is an American rapper from the Bronx, New York City. She began her musical career in 2021 while studying in college after meeting producer RiotUSA. Described as a "breakout star" and "rap's new princess," she has won numerous awards, including the MTV Video Music Award for Best New Artist, the People's Choice Award for New Artist of the Year, and the Impact Award from the BMI R&B/Hip-Hop Awards. She has also received four Grammy nominations, including Best New Artist. Her debut performance at Rhythm and Vines will be a NZ exclusive.
 
The Don of UK Garage SAMMY VIRJI is back for his second appearance at R&V, this time gracing a headline slot on the legendary One NZ Vines stage. The London-born artist has been responsible for some of the very finest UK garage and bass house rhythms of recent times. Over the years, there has been an abundance of household Virji tracks that hold great weight within the scene including 'Daga Da', 'Find My Way Home', 'Never Let You Go', and 'Shella Verse'. Already a household name prior to 2024, Sammy Virji has gone from strength to strength this year, releasing hit after hit and headlining every major dance festival across Europe and US tours to boot.
 
Australian superstar LUUDE is back across the ditch, bringing his signature euphoric summer sound to the hills of Waiohika. From a breakout 2021 which included, “Down Under” and “Big City Life”, to the more recent “Oh My” and “TMO”, Luude has been churning out banger after banger and proving that the cream always rises to the top. Other headline performances include Italian powerhouses MEDUZA, British producers KOVEN, and US Producer and King of trap and all things bass RL GRIME. A unique array of tastemakers include  JYOTY, JOY (ANONYMOUS) [LIVE], and the dressing gown-wearing viral DJ sensation FISH56OCTAGON.
 
In news that will be celebrated, iconic kiwi legend SIR “RAVING” DAVE DOBBYN will make his return to Waiohika, providing his world-famous-in-NZ sing-alongs on the infamous Love You Bro Hill. Fresh off a gold medal sized haul of Tui’s at the latest Aotearoa Music Awards, CORRELLA will make their R&V debut. Things have grown exponentially for MESSIE in the past 12 months, from DJ’ing at the R&V’s campground pre-party (Waiohika Warmup) in 2023, through to representing NZ at Glastonbury, stay tuned for exciting updates as the hometown hero returns to Gisborne with her posse of talented friends such as JOY (ANONYMOUS), CARU and more. Adding to the stacked kiwi line up representing Team NZ will be festival favourites SACHI, CASSIE HENDERSON, and up-and-coming popstar FRANKIE VENTER to name a few.
 
Drum and Bass will always find a home at Rhythm, with a British invasion featuring KOVEN, GRAFIX, SUBSONIC and LENS along with breakout DJ and vocalist’s CHARLOTTE PLANK and DADA JONES. Kiwi DNB allstars are well represented in ELIPSA, PIRAPUS, and ROVA.
 
With close to 100 acts tipped to perform at Rhythm and Vines, the first release certainly gives festival fans a mouth watering taste of what is to come. Drink lots of water because this New Year is going to be spicy!
 
FESTIVAL PASSES ONSALE NOW

• Tickets are now onsale for Rhythm and Vines from rhythmandvines.co.nz

• Tickets went onsale for Rhythm and Vines back in January, rewarding those who purchased early with earlybird pricing.

 
FESTIVAL PRICING + ACCOMMODATION
Rhythm and Vines continues to be the most economic, value for money live entertainment experience in New Zealand.

• A 3 Day GA Festival pass is priced at $390.80 (inc fees), working out at $130 per day of the festival.

• Camping passes start from an additional $120+bf for 4 nights camping ($30 per night of camping).

• Vintage Club VIP passes provide an elevated festival experience, including premium facilities, express lanes, cocktail bars, viewing platforms and MUMM champagne. People can also join the waitlist for the return of the Afterglow vVIP area.

• Premium Accommodation options include Glamping, Prem-Tents, along with limited offsite Hotel and Motel accommodation options.

 
AWARD-WINNING BOOKATENT SAVES 25% OF SINGLE USE TENTS ENDING UP IN LANDFILL
Rhythm and Vines continues to fight the battle against single use tents entering the festival. To secure your space in New Zealand’s largest campground, attendees will be required to purchase a Bookatent pre-setup tent package. People who purchase the Bookatent packages simply turn up to the festival with their tent already pre-setup and ready to party. The festival will then pack down and clear the tents, re-using at future festivals and events in New Zealand. 25% of the tents at Rhythm and Vines are Bookatent, providing a quarter reduction in single use tents ending up at landfill. Read more
 
ABOUT RHYTHM AND VINES
Since 2003, over 350,000 Kiwis and international travellers have unlocked their rite of passage - the journey that is Rhythm and Vines.

Held each year at the stunning Waiohika Estate, on the East Coast of New Zealand, in the beautiful township of Tairāwhiti |Gisborne. Be one of the first in the world to welcome the first sunrise at one of the world's premier music festivals. The award winning music festival opens up to campers from December 28, with the festival officially kicking off on December 29, through to the first sunrise on January 1.

This will be the 22nd edition of Rhythm and Vines.

The festival successfully raised $31,000 for the Gisborne Mayoral Relief Fund and will continue to focus it’s fundraising efforts to support the festival’s home town. In the years prior to the Gisborne floods, Rhythm and Vines successfully raised over $62,500 for Lifeline.

TRAILER DROP & RELEASE DATE REVEALED FOR KIWI HORROR FEATURE ‘GRAFTED'

Fresh from its world premiere at Whānau Mārama New Zealand International Film Festival and ahead of its nationwide September 12 theatrical release, the trailer for new kiwi horror film Grafted has dropped.
 
Shot across Tāmaki Makaurau Auckland, Grafted stars new and rising actor Joyena Sun (Blood and Gold, Wait), alongside Kiwi breakout star Jess Hong (3 Body Problem, My Life is Murder, Creamerie), Eden Hart (Madam, Sweet Tooth, Creamerie) and Jared Turner (The Convert, Sweet Tooth, Power Rangers).
 
The film tells the story of a Chinese student (Sun) who travels to New Zealand to complete the scientific work of her deceased father, only to find a new way of achieving the popularity she so desperately craves by putting her studies to a new, and terrifying, use.  Additional casting includes Sepi To’a (The Castaways, Spontaneous Human Combustion), Ginette McDonald (Time Bandits, My Life is Murder) and Mark Mitchinson (Madam, Our Flag Means Death).
 
Grafted is the full-length directorial debut of award-winning Sasha Rainbow, whose short film Kamali was nominated for a BAFTA and long listed for an Academy Award. Grafted is written by Mia Maramara (Kāinga, Power Rangers), Hweiling Ow (T is for Talk, The Tattooist), Lee Murray (Aurealis, British Fantasy), and Rainbow.
 
Ow conceived the story from her own experience as an Asian immigrant, to create a unique coming-of-age horror story and sees Grafted as “a way to explore important themes like privilege, race, sex and cultural alienation.”
 
Collaborating on the final script with Murray, Rainbow says, “When I first read Grafted, I was blown away. It’s so easy to turn away, to avoid confronting what makes us uncomfortable but I love the social commentary of the themes in this film and its reflection on how society creates its own monsters.”
 
Grafted is brought to life by, and showcases the exceptional talent of, young female actors Joyena Sun, Jess Hong and Eden Hart, who deliver standout performances under the direction of Rainbow. “She really connects with the actor and collaborates. She wants to hear everyone’s opinion” says Sun of working with Rainbow.
 
The cast are supported by an experienced production team including DOP Tammy Williams (Stylebender), production designer Nathan Taare (The Hobbit trilogy, Mulan), costume designer Kyle Callanan (Godzilla x Kong: The New Empire) and make-up designer Tracey Henton (Love Me, The Subtle Art of Not Giving a F*ck).
 
Grafted is produced by Murray Francis (The World’s Fastest Indian) of Propaganda Films and Leela Menon (Dawn Raid) of FluroBlack, with Fraser Brown (Stylebender) of FluroBlack as executive producer. The film was made with financing from Te Tumu Whakaata Taonga New Zealand Film Commission, Head Gear Films, FluroBlack Media, Department of Post and private investors. The film will be distributed in New Zealand by (YET) Another Monster Company.

ALISON MOYET TO TOUR NEW ZEALAND WITH THE ‘KEY LIVE 2025’ WORLD TOUR

TEG Live is proud to announce that Alison Moyet, will be embarking on her first New Zealand tour in 8 years, as part of her global tour ‘KEY Live 2025’. This tour will see the acclaimed singer-songwriter marking 40 years as a solo artist by delivering an eclectic, career-spanning set, showcasing the depth and breadth of her artistic creativity and songwriting.
 
The tour kicks off on Wednesday 21st May at Auckland’s Town Hall, then heads to Wellington’s Michael Fowler Centre on Saturday 24th May, before finishing her NZ leg of the global tour at Isaac Theatre Royal in Christchurch on Monday 26th May.
 
Pre-sales begin from Monday 19th August at 1pm local time before the General Public On Sale from Wednesday 21st August at 2pm local time.
 
Alison says, “I remember the first time I came. This far from home with all so familiar. New Zealand abides soundly in my heart having welcomed me so readily from the outset. The prospect of returning now is beyond happy-making. Coming to play for those of you that have followed my progress is a thrill I cannot have imagined 40 years ago. How bonkers is that? Live is my favourite thing. Thrilled I get to be live with you again.”

Audiences are set to enjoy an evening of reworked material including fan favourites such as ‘All Cried Out’, deep cuts, and new tracks from her latest album ‘KEY’, including the recently-released ‘Such Small Ale’.

It’s been 40 years since Alison Moyet stepped out of Yazoo and fired up a solo career with her debut album ‘Alf’. That unmistakable voice - big enough to fill a stadium and yet intimate enough to make you feel as though she’s singing just for you - has taken her on quite a journey releasing 9 studio albums, and career highlights including three BRIT Awards and a Grammy nomination. To mark 40 years as a solo artist, Moyet is set to release her 10th studio album ‘Key’ on Oct 4.

Speaking of her new album Alison says “I wanted to take the opportunity to look at the trajectory of the past four decades and explore songs that, in their original form, were never fully realised or have had their relevance to me altered by time.”
 
This will no doubt be an incredible tour and fans are encouraged to secure their tickets as soon as possible to not miss out!

 ALISON MOYET NEW ZEALAND TOUR DATES:
Wednesday 21st May – Auckland, Auckland Town Hall
Saturday 24th May - Wellington, Michael Fowler Centre
Monday 26th May - Christchurch, Isaac Theatre Royal
 
Pre-sale
Monday 19th August, 1pm (local) > Wednesday 21st August, 1pm (local)
 
 General Public On Sale
Wednesday 21st August, 2pm (local)

Information on Pre-sale and General Public On Sale tickets is available in the link below.
https://teglive.com.au/live_tour/alisonmoyet/

Alison’s newest album ‘KEY’ will be released globally on October 4.

WORLD CLASS INTERNATIONAL CAST ANNOUNCED FOR THE LORD OF THE RINGS – A MUSICAL TALE AHEAD OF ITS AUCKLAND SEASON

Kevin Wallace Productions, GWB Entertainment and Middle-earth Enterprises are proud to announce today the international cast of multi-skilled actor-musicians who will grace The Civic stage for the New Zealand season of The Lord of the Rings – A Musical Tale this November.

The thirty-strong company includes Tom Amandes (Gandalf), Tony Bozzuto (Gollum), Rick Hall (Bilbo Baggins), Michael Kurowski (Samwise Gamgee), Spencer Davis Milford (Frodo Baggins) and Lauren Zakrin (Galadriel). This talented cast will perform in Auckland fresh from a stellar season at Chicago Shakespeare Theater.

Industry bible Broadway World said of the international cast: “Tom Amandes (as Gandalf) turns in one of the best performances of the night. His conception of Gandalf is the epitome of calm yet powerful; the acting choices are pitch-perfect.” The outlet added “Bozzuto’s (playing Gollum) physical and voice acting are spectacular —his famous line “My precious,” it’s chilling”. The Fourth Walsh says “Bozzuto is a marvel”, and The Chicago Tribune hailed “the immensely talented cast of actor-musicians”.

The Chicago Theatre and Concert Review praised Spencer Davis Milford as Frodo and Micheal Kurowski as Sam saying they have “great chemistry together and absolutely embody Tolkien’s theme of the power of friendship”, while The New York Times said “Milford is an affecting Frodo Baggins, and Bozzuto gives an impressively athletic performance as Gollum, appropriately toggling between creepy and darkly funny.”

Director Paul Hart said “We have been delighted with the performances of our stellar, multi-talented cast as they bring to life this story to audiences in Chicago and can’t wait to see them shine in the home of Middle-earth. It is such a thrill to bring this production to New Zealand.”
 
Producer Kevin Wallace adds “This exceptional cast’s telling of The Lord of the Rings has been a huge hit with Chicago audiences. It is a unique, immensely entertaining, must-see, performance for theatregoers and fans of The Lord of the Rings books and films.”

The show begins as the Hobbits celebrate Bilbo Baggins’ eleventy-first birthday in the Shire, he gifts his nephew Frodo his most precious belonging - a gold ring. This fateful moment launches Frodo on a legendary and perilous quest across Middle-earth to the darkest realms of Mordor, to vanquish evil with his loyal Fellowship. The dynamic folk-inspired score is performed live by the company on stage, weaving together original music with storytelling. The New Zealand premiere comes fresh off the 70th anniversary of the publication of The Fellowship of the Ring, the first book in The Lord of the Rings trilogy which debuted in 1954.

This adventure through the epic realm of Middle-earth has been beloved by generations of readers and now it’s Auckland’s turn to experience it live. Tickets are on sale now and selling fast from Ticketmaster.
 
The full cast set to perform in Auckland as as follows:
 
Legolas - Justin Albinder
Gandalf - Tom Amandes
Gollum - Tony Bozzuto
Merry - Eileen Doan
Bilbo Baggins - Rick Hall
Rosie Cotton - Suzanne Hannau
Samwise Gamgee - Michael Kurowski
Frodo Baggins - Spencer Davis Milford
Strider / Aragorn - Will James Jr.
Gimli - Ian Maryfield
Pippin - Ben Mathew
Saruman / Elrond - Jeff Parker
Arwen - Alina Jenine Taber
Boromir - Matthew C. Yee
Galadriel - Lauren Zakrin
Ensemble - Joey Faggion, Mia Hilt, James Mueller, Jarais Musgrove, Hannah Novak, Adam Qutaishat, Laura Savage, Bernadette Santos Schwegel, Arik Vega.
Understudies - Andrew Bosworth, Luke Nowakowski, Ty Shay, Carter Rose Sherman, Kelan Smith, Tommy Thurston.

THE LORD OF THE RINGS - A Musical Tale, is presented in Auckland by Kevin Wallace Productions, GWB Entertainment, Middle-earth Enterprises, Tim McFarlane, KHAM Inc, People Entertainment Group, The Watermill Theatre and Chicago Shakespeare Theater. The Auckland season of the production is made possible by Auckland Council and the city targeted rate, and with support from Auckland Live.

AWARD-WINNING COMEDY PODCAST DID TITANIC SINK? RETURNS FOR SEASON 2

The award-winning podcast Did Titanic Sink? is back for a second series from Monday 15 July, begging the question who can you trust?
 
The first series of Did Titanic Sink? hosted by Australian comedian and improviser Carlo Ritchie (The Office Australia) and two-time Billy T nominated comedian Tim Batt (The Worst Idea of All Time), exposed how even the most ridiculous conspiracy theories can be cloaked in facts and (often hilarious) details. So, when the boys came back pitching a "proper, more detailed" look at the Titanic, RNZ suggested they take on another, more local conspiracy theory - the mystery of the Canterbury Cat.
 
But at a time when people don't know what to believe and who to trust, can even Carlo and Tim be trusted with season two's production budget?
 
Will they follow the cat's paw prints or steer the podcast towards a Titanic-sized iceberg? And as a Titanic survivor and his too-controversial-to-print book emerge in the South Island, can Carlo resist a detour?
 
Whatever the outcome, Did Titanic Sink? Season 2, promises to be a wild ride, building on the success of the first series that attracted hundreds of thousands of downloads, high praise from its listeners and went on to win Best Comedy at the NZ Podcast Awards 2023 as well as Bronze for overall Best Podcast.
 
For series 2, podcast hosts Tim Batt and Carlo Ritchie draw on the talents of Billy T Award winner Abby Howells to direct the series and Rose Matafeo (Starstruck) has also lent her voice to each episode of the podcast.
 
Tim says the production process was as always, enjoyable, “It was a pleasure to take the production budget and use it to record more of Carlo’s rants about his favourite subject again. Oh, and to investigate the cat. Yeah, the cat was really important. I hope RNZ aren’t too upset with what we’ve made.”

DID TITANIC SINK? SEASON 2
Episodes one and two in the six-episode season will launch on Monday 15 July.
New episodes will follow each Monday online at rnz.co.nz/titanic, on all podcast platforms, and on air on RNZ National at 7.30pm on Nights with Emile Donovan.

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
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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.”