CHILDREN’S THEATRE PERFORMANCES GIFTED FOR FAMILIES OF HAWKE’S BAY
Acclaimed theatre company Nightsong are pleased to announce that their acclaimed children’s show The Worm will head to Hawke’s Bay for four shows on 28 and 29 April at Toitoi – Hawke’s Bay Arts & Events Centre, in the magnificent and recently restored Opera House. All shows will be FREE to attend, with almost 4000 tickets available. Particular focus is being given to engaging with communities affected by Cyclone Gabrielle.
The Worm follows a young worm who finds courage and sense of self, whilst touching on the importance of balancing an environmental ecosystem. Considering the show’s themes, Ben Crowder (Nightsong Co-Founder and The Worm Co-Director) has said the Charitable Trust felt compelled to share the show with the region and was determined to find partners to make it happen.
“The Worm thematically explores travelling from the dark to the light and has great crossover appeal for young and older. It feels like a way to bring whānau together to share in an uplifting experience – particularly after a period of crisis and to lift morale as the recovery begins” say Ben Crowder, Nightsong Co-Founder and The Worm Co-Director.
Despite the threat of looming arts cuts from Auckland Council, Nightsong were still eager to do something to help. “Touring a big show has high costs – considering the cast size, accommodation needs etc. Nightsong, as a small independent arts organisation, has and continues to carry the risk if we do not get all the funds we need…”
To that end, they reached out to existing patrons, businesses and individuals and the uptake was astounding. The Performing Arts Network of New Zealand (PANNZ) also agreed to support the project as a foundation partner, matching the contributions of the venue, Toitoi – Hawke's Bay Arts & Events Centre.
“New Zealand has a lot of proposed local government cuts for community-based work, and the arts are an easy low hanging fruit to get rid of. However, times like this brings to the fore what is important, and this includes communities coming together to share stories and experiences. We are very heartened by people wanting to contribute,” says Crowder.
Nightsong has also cut costs by absorbing all overheads and working pro bono on the enterprise, as they present two performances for local schools and two for the public.
Aucklander’s attending The Worm at the Herald Theatre from 11 – 22 April will also be able to support the cause and pay it forward to Hawke’s Bay whānau. Audiences will be able to add a donation at the point of purchase, with their contribution going towards the cost of a ticket for tamariki at Toitoi.
Last year, this show went off. Tamariki from all over Tāmaki Makaurau bused into the city to catch The Worm, many of whom had never experienced live theatre before. One young audience member commented: “This was my first time at the theatre, and it was so exciting. I can’t wait for part two!”
A true testament to those who believe in their artistry, Nightsong has drawn together an ensemble of heavy hitters from the acting and music scenes. Taking us on a journey into the world of The Worm is a cast that includes: the wildly talented Yvette Parsons (Nude Tuesday, Educators), the brilliant and inimitable Semu Filipo (Next Goal Wins, The Justice of Bunny King), Auckland theatre’s favourite Brit Andrew Grainger (Nightsong’s Te Pō, The Breaker Upperers), the incomparable and powerhouse creative Anapela Polata’ivao (Wild Dogs Under My Skirt, Every Brilliant Thing) and notable newcomer Albert Latailakepa, fresh off filming the Disney+ upcoming production of The Artful Dodger.
Ben Crowder is available for interviews.
Nightsong supported by PANNZ and Toitoi presents
THE WORM
Written by Carl & Peter Bland
Directed by Ben Crowder & Carl Bland
Starring Yvette Parsons, Semu Filipo, Andrew Grainger, Anapela Polata’ivao & Albert Latailakepa
Original music by Carnivorous Plant Society
28 April - 10:30am & 1pm (SCHOOLS)
29 April - 2pm & 6pm (PUBLIC)
Toitoi – Hawke's Bay Arts & Events Centre – Opera House
Tickets on sale Monday 3 April