The Auckland Arts Festival is once again returning to the heart of the city from Wednesday 8 until Sunday 26 March with an amazing array of diverse theatrical, musical and live events that will feature both New Zealand artists along with international acts in a festival that celebrates the joys and excitement of artistic expression.
Tickets are selling fast so with that in mind we have come up with five shows that you should get in on before they sell out.
La Soirée
Wednesday 8 - Sunday 26 March
Prepare for everything from acrobats to contortionists to sword swallowers in this outrageously clever, funny and sexy cabaret that is taking over the Spiegeltent this year and which is regarded as one of this year’s must watch shows. Make it a fun night by heading for a drink at the Box Café and Bar before heading into the Speigeltent at Aotea Square.
Rice
Friday 10 - Sunday 12 March
For those who want to be utterly spellbound, make sure you check out this inspiring piece of dance theatre. Created by one of the world’s leading contemporary dance companies, Cloud Gate Theatre, Rice incorporates a massive video backdrop with 24 dancers onstage paired with music ranging from Hakka folk songs to operatic arias.
The Encounter
Wednesday 15 - Sunday 19 March
Try something bold this Auckland Arts Festival and be a part of this highly unique play that utilizes sensory audio storytelling to tell the true story of National Geographic photographer Loren McIntyre who becomes lost in the jungles of the Amazon in 1969 and which leads to a startling encounter that would change his life.
Horror
Tuesday 21 - Sunday 26 March
If you love horror movies and the scares that come with them then this is the show for you. Prepare to scream aloud, and shield your eyes as all those creepy shocks that you’re used to come crashing onto the stage in this bustling live piece of theatre that references classic horror cinema like Evil Dead, The Ring and The Exorcist.
How To Keep An Alien
Wednesday 22 - Sunday 26 March
See paper pushing at its most romantic in this heartfelt story about falling in love and proving it to the government in How To Keep An Alien. Sonya Kelly’s tearfully funny memoir will have you in stitches and wiping away the tears in equal doses in a show that is an absolute must watch at this year's festival.
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