Curtains ready to open on NZ Festival
Wellingtonians will have a world-class festival on their doorstep this month as the New Zealand Festival of the Arts hits town.
The programme spans the region from Ka¯ piti Coast to Porirua, Hutt City to Wellington.
Tickets are selling fast, with big names such as music artist Kate Tempest and novelist Elizabeth Knox making an appearance. Some shows are already sold out – if people want to see indigenous theatre production Black Ties they will have to join the waitlist.
President of Wellington Employers’ Chamber of Commerce John Milford said locals and out-of-towners alike were always positive about the festival.
‘‘I think because of the consistency of Wellington holding high-quality events we have built a reputation for that.’’
The hospitality and accommodation sectors felt it most but because of the recent downturn in tourism because of coronavirus, ‘‘we need to maximise these opportunities’’, he said.
Executive director of the festival Meg Williams said rehearsals were well under way, and technical crews began packing into venues last week.
Selling fast were Festival Opening Night: Chosen and Beloved, Laurie Anderson’s concert Here Comes the Ocean, and British poet and rapper Kate Tempest.
There are plenty of free events, and art galleries across the region are joining the festival with innovative, engaging exhibitions.
When is it on?
The festival lasts three weeks, beginning on February 21 and ending on March 15.
Each week will be different as three guest curators – Lemi Ponifasio, Laurie Anderson and Bret McKenzie – present their own own distinct flavour of events.
Director and choreographer Ponifasio has curated the first week of the festival which includes Te Ata – a festival within the festival.
‘‘Arts festivals can stimulate a nation’s culture,’’ he said.
American artist Anderson, who attended her first NZ Festival in 1986, has curated the second week.
The musician and multimedia artist has dedicated her work The Calling to her niece, Thea Anderson, who died in a crash in Hawke’s Bay.
Local comedian McKenzie has curated the final week which has a strong music element.
How much are tickets?
Each event varies in price and some are free.
Where is it held?
Events are being held at Massey University’s College of Creative Arts, Shed 6, Lower Hutt Events Centre, Soundings Theatre, Michael Fowler Centre, Pa¯ taka Art + Museum, Circa Theatre, Opera House, St Mary of the Angels, RNZB Dance Centre, National Library, Toi Art Gallery, TSB Arena, Odlins Plaza and Expressions Whirinaki.
Other venues include galleries across the city and Wellington Waterfront.
How do you get there?
Most venues are in easy walking distance, especially if you are staying in central Wellington.
However, there are options to train and bus, as well as take a taxi.
For those driving in, there are lots of parking facilities and Wellington City Council operates carparks in walking distance of venues.
Is it accessible?
The festival has shows that include New
Zealand Sign Language, audio descriptions, touch tours, a hearing loop and all venues have accessible seating.
What is there to eat and drink?
There are lots of options, including Logan Brown, which has a three-course menu for $50 and a wine can be matched with festival partner Villa Maria. For a $15 lunch, people can head to Chow or dig into a deal at Crab Shack near TSB Arena, or Hot Sauce for popcorn chicken.
Festival goers with ID can get a free glass of wine or beer with a main course at Shed 5 near Queens Wharf, or they can grab a drink at Library or Le Samourai.