Arts roundup
From Shakespeare to breath circles, Auckland has plenty to entertain this summer. Edna Heled previews some of what to expect
SHAKESPEARE IN THE PARK
The annual season of Shakespeare in the Park at the Pumphouse theatre, Takapuna, from January 21 to February 18, is the bird that signifies the new year of cultural events.
At the outdoor amphitheatre. Info at pumphouse.co.nz
THE HEARTBREAK CHOIR
Auckland Theatre Company will start a special programme for its 30th anniversary with the New Zealand premiere of the Australian summer comedy hit The Heartbreak Choir by Aidan Fennessy, directed by Lara Macgregor. This funny play about community spirit and the healing power of singing features Kate Louise Elliott, Jodie Dorday and others. The show runs from February 14 to March 4. Note that it contains coarse language, mature themes and references to sexual assault, and is recommended for ages 15-plus.
Book at atc.co.nz, phone 0800 ATC TIX. You can also subscribe to the whole 2023 season and enjoy six shows, including the rescheduled season of Witi’s Wā hine and Shakespeare’s King Lear.
SHIVA SHAKTI FESTIVAL
And of course, there are summer festivals. The Shiva Shakti Festival takes place from February 3 to 5 in one of Auckland’s best hidden secrets. Kawai Purapura Retreat Centre (AKA KP) is a nature sanctuary and healing space on the other side of the busy Albany Mall. The festival hosts a range of classes such as yoga, tantra, sound healing, meditation and movement. There will be live music, a healing zone, swimming pool, sauna and spa, and much more.
4 Mills Lane (of Oteha Valley Rd), Albany. Tickets at shivashakti.nz. Children under 15 are free.
NZ SPIRIT FESTIVAL
Just a bit further, in Kaipara, the extensive grounds of Tumanako Hope & Ariki Estate is where a new vision for commune life and sustainability turns into a giant venue to host unique festivals of deep connection and awakening. After the successful Resolution New Year festival, NZ Spirit Festival from March 9th till 12th has a welldesigned programme with local and international presenters of transformational wellness workshops, breath circles, group activities, dance and music concerts including famous names like Anika Moa and Herbs. The festival fosters a unique spiritual experience, and offers an opportunity for learning and healing. This is a non-alcohol non-substance festival that encourages community co-creation and personal growth through love of nature, sharing and being together on the land.
NZ Spirit and Franko Heke, 4193 Kaipara Coast Highway. Go to nzspiritfestival.com for information.