Spectacular continues to WOW
The weird and wonderful will be on display at the World of Wearablearts Awards Show (WOW) for the next three weeks.
This year’s show – the biggest theatre production in the country – is being touted as exploring a ‘‘frozen land, hidden realms and ancient monuments’’.
For 31 years, the competition has been pulling crowds from across the country, and for 15 years hoards have been flocking to Wellington.
Annually, the shows attract 60,000 people – with 40,00 of those coming from outside the Wellington region.
WOW chief executive Gisella Carr said its success in the capital – while other events, like the sevens, have petered out – was its consistent ticket sales. Ticket sales were on track this year, with spaces still available for any latecomers.
‘‘In order to grow creatively, we needed a city-sized population, arena-sized theatre and the other infrastructure, such as accommodation for the audience, who every year pour into Wellington to see WOW.
‘‘And, of course, we needed city backing and enthusiasm, which Wellington has provided in spades. Not just the council but also retailers, restaurants and cafes, the taxis, the airport, the ferries – the list is large.’’
Punters bought tickets to WOW not just for the show but also to experience the city, Carr said. Alongside the shows, there are other events like the Welly Loves WOW Menus and Edible Art competition, which enlists over 80 eateries to partake in creating delectable dishes.
‘‘We always say that we have the audience for two hours but the city has them for two to three days and nights.’’
The WOW season has become a staple in the arts’ calendar, with the production providing employment to 300 people annually.
Each year, WOW gives firstyear contemporary dance students from the New Zealand School of Dance the opportunity to perform in the show.
WOW provides a choreographer, mentor and manager to work directly with the students for nine weeks during rehearsals and the show season.
‘‘To witness the skills that our teams have – whether it be costume-cutters, the performing aerialists and the riggers who will physically counterweight them, or massive front of house effort – is truly inspiring.’’