BATS Theatre turning 35

To mark its 35th birthday BATS Theatre has enlisted the help of 35 of Wellington’s most influential people.

They include businesspeople, sportspeople, artists and media personalities such as: Dame Gaylene Preston, Sir Richard Taylor, Dame Patsy Reddy, Dame Winnie Laban, Whiti Hereaka, Emily Perkins and business stars Rachel Taulelei, Kirsten Patterson, and sports star White Fern Amelia Kerr.

A highlight of the 35th festivities in early April is a birthday week with shows by The Tīwhas and Ruff as Gutz. Both are donating 35% of their box office to BATS.

BATS chief executive Jonty Hendry said what made the performances even more extraordinary was the commitment of the artists.

“The celebration will be an opportunity to raise much needed funds after a difficult time for the arts, but it will also be a time to raise our glasses to BATS Theatre – an integral Wellington icon that continues to inspire and energise our city and light up lives with live art.”

The Tīwhas, one of Wellington’s favourite girl groups, is made up of takatāpui drag queens. The House Down Boots Extravaganza Bonanza Battle Party Celebration Event is on The Stage from April 3-6 at 6:30pm.

After the smash hit Milkoween in October last year, Ruff as Gutz are back with Milly Monka’s Milk Factory, on in The Dome from April 3-6 at 8pm.

– Tickets can be found on the BATS website, bats.co.nz

– Culture Bites highlights the great things that are happening around our region – from arts and music, to foodie events and major festivals. If you would like to be considered for this column email a brief summary to arts@thepost.co.nz