World Premieres At Capital E

Capital E National Theatre for Children presents two world premieres and a New Zealand first in 2014

Commemorating 100 years since the outbreak of World War 1, celebrating the work of beloved New Zealand author, Pamela Allen and exploring the magic of theatre for the young; Capital E National Theatre for Children announces their exciting programme for 2014.

The New Zealand premiere of Patch Theatre Company’s Mr McGee & the Biting Flea kicks off the 2014 line-up in the April school holidays. Ideal for 2-7 year olds this wonderful production features adaptations of six of New Zealand author Pamela Allen’s stories, including ‘Brown Bread’, ‘Honey’, and ‘Mr McGee & the Biting Flea’. As huge packing cases are opened, new worlds emerge, filled with quirky characters and stories and, using an assortment of props and found objects, three performers bring the tales to sweet, music-infused life. Following a public season in Wellington, Mr McGee & the Biting Flea will set off on a national tour visiting 15 centres around the country.

A specially commissioned work to commemorate WW1 makes its world premiere in Wellington in July before touring nationally until September. An Awfully Big Adventure explores the stories of two young men during the war; one a keen enlister in the mounted rifles off on his big OE, the other a conscientious objector shipped to Europe for further punishment for non compliance. The two then meet at the front on Flanders fields. Along the way we visit Gallipoli, encounter NZ Commander William Malone and travel to the western front during the final stages of the war. In this 100th anniversary year, this is a work that explores the complexity of the times, the conduct of the war and its impact on New Zealanders, all in a way accessible to audiences aged 8 and up.

The final installment in the 2014 line-up is an exciting and interactive experience especially for younger audiences in Wellington. Making its debut in the July school holidays, Granddad’s Lucky Storm is a brand new and unique theatrical event, where the traditional boundaries of theatre are removed, inviting the audience to experience the magic of a live performance, up close and personal. In the middle of a terrible thunder storm, a visit to Granddad’s house turns into an unexpected adventure for audiences aged 5 plus.

For more details or to book visit www.capitale.org.nz or call 04 913 3740.

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