NEWS RELEASE
22 August 2011

Free gigs to rock city in the Festival of Carnivale

Soul singer Hollie Smith and rockers Midnight Youth, together with local favourites the Phoenix Foundation and the Wellington Ukulele Orchestra will perform for free in the Festival of Carnivale during Rugby World Cup 2011.

Fans can catch the free gigs and other entertainment at the official Rugby Village FANZONE centred around the Wharewaka (canoe house) on Wellington's waterfront from 9 September-9 October, as well as Courtenay Place during quarter-finals weekend (8-9 October).

Festival of Carnivale Producer Andy Scotland says the entertainment is all part of a fantastic line-up of 'off-the-field' events.

"The FANZONE will showcase a range of pre-match entertainment and performances on the purpose-built stage and the big screen will show live coverage of all rugby games. It will be a hub of activity for fans eager to share in the excitement of the Tournament."

It all kicks off on 9 September with an evening packed full of activity. The Wellington Ukulele Orchestra will perform before live coverage of the opening ceremony in Auckland and the New Zealand v Tonga match.

From Wednesdays to Sundays, you can catch a range of performances on the stage. These will include anything from youth kapa haka, school bands, community groups and choir performances to music from the likes of Knives at Noon, The Nudge, The Beat Girls, X Ray Catz and Woolshed Sessions.

"As much as possible, performances will also pay homage to the teams that are playing. For example, before the Wales v Samoa match, a Welsh choir and a Samoan cultural group will be performing on stage. Also before South Africa v Namibia - the distinctive sounds of the Affro Beat band will be heard warming up the crowd," says Andy.

"Stage performances won't take place on Mondays and Tuesdays, however the area will be open in the evening so people can drop in, have a drink, sample some of the food on offer and soak up the atmosphere."

As well as screening rugby matches, the big screen will show contemporary New Zealand music videos as well as archival footage of Wellington capturing significant events in time along with All Blacks teams through the ages.

Other entertainment at the FANZONE will include an Argentina Tango Bus, the Monster Burlesque Dance Troupe, stilt walkers, face painting, cheerleaders and alternative rugby commentary from Jedi.

The FANZONE is also the place for Festival of Carnivale events such as Illuma, which will transform buildings and structures around the waterfront with light and colour.

"We have over 150 events taking place in and around Wellington during the Festival. Major events include: Port Nicholson's Festival of Sails, caricatures of the New Zealand French teams by a visiting French artist and a 'one-weekend-only' sticky Tape Art mural on the side of Te Papa.

There's also a full street programme including Footnote Dance's 'Roll Out the Red Carpet', Java Dance, Funky Junk, Zirigidum and Batucada. "We've even got a weekend of sheep racing, wood chopping and sheep dog trials," says Andy.

Other sites for fans around the city include the Courtenay Place live site during quarter-finals weekend (8-9 October). Games will screen live and there will be live music from 12 noon until late on Saturday and Sunday nights.

A Civic Village site in the Town Hall and Civic Square will feature family-friendly entertainment including community and multicultural groups, weekend screenings of the games, old movies and music.

A range of outdoor locations around the waterfront will also feature installations and street performances.

"The Festival of Carnivale is about more than just rugby," says Andy. "We have worked hard to ensure we have a diverse mix of music and performances that will appeal to both Wellingtonians and visitors alike.

"One thing is for sure - there will be plenty of entertainment for people to choose from in between games."

For further Festival of Carnival event information visit wellingtonnz2011.com. Daily event and fanzone listings will be available nearer the time.

FANZONE opening hours

Rugby Village FANZONE
(Located in the Odlins Plaza area, including the Lagoon Lawn and the Taranaki Wharf)
Friday 9 September 11am-10pm
Saturday 10 September 11am-10pm
Sunday 11 September 11am-10pm

Monday 12 September 5-7.30pm
Tuesday 13 September 5-7.30pm
Wednesday 14 September - Sunday 18 inclusive 12 noon-10pm

Monday 19 September 5-7.30pm
Tuesday 20 September 5-9pm (Game at 7.30pm)
Wednesday 21-Sunday 25 inclusive 12 noon-10pm

Monday 26 September 5-9pm (Game at 7.30pm)
Tuesday 27 September 3-9pm (Games at 5pm and 7.30pm)
Wednesday 28 - Sunday 2 October inclusive 12 noon-10pm
Monday 3 October 5-7.30pm
Tuesday 4 October 5-7.30pm
Wednesday 5 - Friday 7 inclusive 12 noon-10.30pm

Courtenay Place live site
Saturday 8 and Sunday 9 October 11am-11.30pm

Bands / musicians performing in the FANZONE and/or Courtney Place 8/9 October

Hollie Smith
Knives at Noon
Midnight Youth
CADA (New Caledonian Band)
Wellington Ukelele Orchestra
XRay Catz
The Shenanigans
Toni Huata
Elena
The Nudge
The Beat Girls
Cornerstone Roots
Twinset
Thomas Oliver Band
The Velvet Regime
Phoenix Foundation
Tommy and the Fallen Horses
Poneke Toi Ora - Maori Music Showcase
Woolshed Session
The Yoots

Festival of Carnivale main events (as of August 2011)
9 September – 9 October

For full events listings visit wellingtonnz2011.com/festival-events
Full daily listings will also be available soon

Oceania
Date: Saturday 6 August–Sunday 6 November
Where: Te Papa Tongarewa and City Gallery, Wellington , New Zealand
Cost: Admission charges will apply
Web: tepapa.govt.nz

Experience the art of leading modern and contemporary Māori, Pacific Island and Pākehā artists at City Gallery Wellington’s Oceania: Imagining the Pacific, and explore Pacific, Māori and European peoples' response to new technologies, materials and ideas at Te Papa's Oceania: Early Encounters.

Oranges at halftime – Lower Hutt
Date: Thursday 11 August–Friday 12 August
Where: Margaret Street closure (opposite entrance to Westfield Mall)
Cost: Free
Web: orangesathalftime.co.nz

This relationship between rugby and Kiwi culture is explored in a fabulous touring exhibition, Oranges at Halftime, visiting towns throughout New Zealand during Rugby World Cup 2011.

Focusing on the period of our history since 1950, Oranges at Halftime celebrates the dads who coached kids from their first games through First XV and Junior As, and the mums who selflessly served pies and Fanta in the club rooms and washed muddy shorts so they were pristine white with Sunlight soap.

The Migrating Kitchen
Date: Thursday 18 August–Tuesday 27 September
Time: Various; see website
Where: Pataka Museum of Arts and Culture
Cost: Free
Web: migratingkitchen.org
Contact: Jennifer Bush-Daumec, jennifer@bushcraft.co.nz

Five countries showcase their cooking and boast of their rugby prowess. On each kitchen bench there are recipes to take away, and herbs and spices to smell and grind. On each kitchen wall a DVD screens stories of migration, festivals and food and children playing rugby. On Saturdays, The Migrating Kitchen features music and dance, and there's a hunger-inducing aroma of food being cooked — by chefs from each community.

Pilgrimage - A Courtenay Place Park Light Box Exhibition
Date: Saturday 20 August – Monday 5 December 2011
Where: Courtenay Place Light Boxes, Wellington
Cost: Free
Web: southlight.net

The photographers move beyond the game itself, to look at the ways rugby permeates our lives, landscapes and national identity.
The light box project in Courtenay Place Park is an intense, highly public exhibition space featuring eight 3-metre-high steel and glass LED boxes. With an urban backdrop instead of the traditional white gallery walls, this exhibition space is a New Zealand first.

Fiona Pardington at Suite Gallery
Date: Thursday 25 August–Saturday 17 September
Time: Gallery opening times: Wed – Fri 11am – 5pm; Saturday 11am – 4pm
Where: Suite Gallery (Cuba Street), Wellington
Web: suite.co.nz

Fiona’s work looks at the history of photography and representations of the body, taking in investigations of subject-photographer relations, medicine, memory, collecting practices and still life. Fiona is of Ngāi Tahu, Kati Mamoe and Scottish descent, and holds a Masters of Fine Arts in photography from the University of Auckland.

Darcy Nicholas – Land of my ancestors
Date: Friday 26 August–Sunday 16 October
Time: Tuesday–Sunday, 10am–4pm
Where: Expressions Arts and Entertainment Centre, Upper Hutt
Cost: Free
Web: expressions.org.nz
Contact: Christina Doherty-McGregor, 04 527 2168

An exhibition of paintings, drawings, sculpture, and jewellery from one of Maoridom’s leading contemporary artists. Darcy Nicholas has exhibited throughout New Zealand, Australia, Canada, Britain, Africa and Europe, and his work is held in private and public collections throughout the world. His work is highlighted in several national and international publications.

Hard on the Heels: Capturing the All Blacks
Date: Friday 27 August – Sunday 30 October
Where: Museum of Wellington City and Sea, Wellington
Cost: Free
Web: museumofwellington.co.nz

Featuring over 100 images of great All Black moments, games and players over a 60-year period, the Hard on the Heels exhibition is drawn from Bush's vast library of photographs and features personal favourites, the controversial and contentious, alongside humorous, candid behind-the-scenes shots.

Small & Beautiful Takeaways
Date: Sunday 28 August–Sunday 13 November
Time: Open Tues – Sat 10am – 4pm. Sun 1pm – 4pm, closed Monday
Where: Mahara Gallery, Waikanae, Wellington
Web: maharagallery.org.nz

An exhibition featuring weaving, carving, ceramics, jewellery, photography, glass, painting, sculpture and printmaking which celebrates the cultural diversity and high quality of creative activity generated by the Kapiti Coast. The show will also include nationally known artists from around New Zealand. Alongside the visual arts, the exhibition will include a film component, and present leading Kapiti musicians, poets and writers in a live performance programme. The artworks on display will be available for take-away during the exhibition in smaller scale beautiful artworks.

The story of Ka Mate, the world’s best known haka
Date: Monday 29 August – Sunday 23 October
Time: 10am – 6pm
Where: Te Papa, Wellington
Cost: Free entry
Web: tepapa.govt.nz

Go anywhere in the world, say you're from New Zealand, and people are likely to start slapping their thighs and bellowing "Quemete! Quemete!" (France), "Orru Brakku! Ka Mate Ka Mate!" (Japan)... or they may ask you to show them the actions or recite the words. Could you?

The Story of Ka Mate, the world’s best known haka, is an interactive exhibition at Wellington's Te Papa where you'll learn about the haka — what it means, where it comes from, its association with sports, and importantly — how to do it.

He Reo Aroha
Date: Thursday 1 September – Saturday 31 December 2011
Time: Various
Where: Circa Theatre, Wellington
Cost: Adults $35; Concessions $25; Under 25s $20; Group discounts available
Web: circa.co.nz

Childhood sweethearts Kaia and Pascoe were always worlds apart. Kaia had trained to sing, grooming her voice for greatness. Working the fishing boats with his father, a song was never far from Pascoe’s lips. When life doesn’t bring Kaia and Pascoe all they hoped for, they soon discover it is music that will get them through and love that will bring them back together. He Reo Aroha is directed by renowned playwright and screenwriter Hone Kouka and featuring original music by the acclaimed Hone Hurihanganui, Kali Kopae and Jamie McCaskill.

The Black Boot Legends Gallery
Date: Thursday 1 September – Tuesday 1 November
Where: Wellington Waterfront, Wellington
Cost: Free
Contact: Gerry Morris, 027 442 8217

The Black Boot Legends Gallery is a collection of rugby legends who have paved New Zealand's international rugby reputation. This free exhibition, located outdoors on Wellington's beautiful waterfront area provides an opportunity for international visitors and Kiwis alike to admire the grassroots culture of New Zealand rugby through a selection of images chosen from renowned New Zealand rugby photographers.

Laying down the challenge
Date: Saturday 3 September – Friday 21 October
Time: 10am – 6pm
Where: Te Papa
Cost: Free entry
Web: tepapa.govt.nz

Laying Down the Challenge is an opportunity for everyone to learn more about the haka (traditional Mäori dance), which has become a worldwide symbol of indigenous pride and power, and to see it performed by the dynamic Whitireia Kapa Haka (Māori performing arts) Group.

Four flat whites in Italy
Date: Saturday 3 September – Saturday 8 October
Time: Various
Where: Circa Theatre
Cost: Adults $46; Concessions $38; Under 25s $25. Group discounts available.
Web: circa.co.nz

Two typical Kiwi couples take off on an Italian trip of a life-time, with many comical calamities befalling the intrepid travellers as they negotiate the pitfalls of an Italian 'OE' (overseas experience). But it’s not just the Italians they have to deal with — it’s also each other! Will this prove a ‘make or break’ for our Kiwi quartet? Will the holiday be heaven or hell? Or both? Blending cracker one-liners with humour and astute observation, Roger Hall deftly satirises our manners, morals, loves and lusts in this highly entertaining treat.

Porirua City Festival
Date: Tuesday 6 September – Sunday 16 October
Where: Various locations, Porirua, Wellington – see below
Cost: Most events are free, some are ticketed.
Web: pcc.govt.nz
Contact: Karyn Stillwell, karyn.stillwell@pcc.govt.nz

Artsplash drama and dance at the Opera House
Date: Wednesday 7 September – Friday 9 September
Time: 5.30pm; 7.30pm
Where: Wellington Opera House and Wellington Town Hall, Wellington
Cost: $5; For tickets, phone Mary Prichard on 027 448 4671
Web: wellingtonnz2011.com/festival-events

Over seven days, the Artsplash Drama and Dance at the Opera House and Artsplash Music & wearable art™ and Visual Art Exhibition at Wellington Town Hall will captivate friends, family, members of the public and visitors to Wellington.
Artsplash Drama gives young people the opportunity to perform in one of Wellington’s grand old theatres with all the trappings of a real theatre production including sound, lighting and brightly lit dressing rooms.

Michael Tuffery: Lakapi (fifteen aside)
Date: Wednesday 7 September – Saturday 15 October
Where: Solander Works on Paper, Wellington
Cost: Free
Web: solandergallery.co.nz

Michel presents an exciting series of large woodcut prints inspired by the rich rugby tradition in New Zealand and the Pacific Islands.

A New Zealand based artist of Samoan, Rarotongan and Tahitian heritage, Michel Tuffery's creative output is expansive and he is adept at many different arts medias including printing, painting and sculpting. His concerns are measured and politicised around the conservation of the environment and shaped by his Pacific Island ancestry.

I, George Nepia – World Premiere
Date: Thursday 8 September – Friday 16 September 2011
Time: Various
Where: Circa Theatre
Cost: Adults $40; Concessions $30; Groups tickets available
Web: circa.co.nz

In this one-man theatre production, incorporating spoken word, music, audio visual elements, physical theatre and, of course, "rugby", the story of George Nēpia — the man of deep spirituality, the talented singer, the dedicated family man and the rugby star — is explored.

Monster Burlesque
Date: Thursday 8 September–Saturday 17 September 2011
Time: TBC
Where: Paramount Theatre, Wellington
Cost: Adult $45; Concession $35; Group rates available. Tickets available through eventfinder.co.nz or at Paramount Theatre
Web: monsterburlesque.blogspot.com
Contact: Mary Laine, 021 292 8050

From the moment you walk through the doors of Wellington’s historic Paramount Theatre, you’ll find yourself immersed in another world. With ticket in hand, like a fantastical backstage pass, you’ll head for your seat and enter the surreal and spectacular world of Monster Burlesque. For 75 minutes you’ll be presented with an eclectic hybrid of dance, comedy, theatre, circus and music combined with a kaleidoscope of sumptuous costumes. Monster Burlesque will be a spectacle not easily forgotten.

Gerard Gargouil
Date: 9-16, 19-24 September and then 29 September–9 October
Time: Daily
Where: Wellington Town Hall, Wakefield Street, Wellington
Cost: Free
Contact: Jean-Victor Martin, 04 472 1272

French caricaturist will draw portraits of the French team and the All Blacks live in the Town Hall. A student at the Academie Bugeant in Poitiers, Gerard Gargouil is the author of several albums of caricatures and comic books about sports. The artist will produce two "family portraits" of the French XV and the All Blacks which will be shown to the public in Wellington before being auctioned for charity.

Gerard will be working on his portraits in the Town Hall's West Plaza from September 9-16, 19-24 and then 29 September - 9 October.

New Zealand on Screen
Date: Friday 9 September–Friday 23 October 2011
Time: 11am - 6pm Monday - Thursday, Sunday; 11am - 9pm Friday and Saturday; Projections on the top box are open until 10pm each night
Where: Te Papa Promenade, Wellington Waterfront, Wellington
Cost: Free
Web: nzonscreen.com
Contact: Anna Dean, 021 152 7232

New Zealand on Screen celebrates Kiwi screen icons with an installation on Wellington Waterfront. The installation has three zones: an identity gateway giving a introduction to the rich diversity of our national screen culture; an interactive area made up of a series of kiosks and a video feature wall. Here visitors will be able to send a 'wish you were here' e-postcard's of themselves inserted into their choice of classic New Zealand film scenes.

The New Zealand Jewellery Show
Date: Friday 9 September–Sunday 11 September 2011
Time: Friday 11am–6pm; Saturday–Sunday 10am–5pm
Where: Michael Fowler Centre, Wellington
Cost: Adults $15; Concessions $12; Children (under 14) Free; Tickets available at venue on the day.
Web: jewelleryshow.co.nz
Contact: Grant Stevenson, 027 231 4643

The New Zealand Jewellery Show brings leading contemporary and fine jewellery designers from throughout the country to Wellington to showcase and sell their finest work. Visitors will have the opportunity to personally meet the designers, talk about the ideas behind their designs and purchase from an outstanding array of work.

Give It a Try!
Date: Friday 9 September–Friday 23 October 2011
Time: 10am-4pm
Where: Capital E, Wellington
Cost: $8, no need to book
Web: capitale.org.nz
Contact: Emily Cunnane, 021 411 078

Give it a Try is an interactive, digital experience where visitors can be part of their favourite Rugby World Cup 2011 team. Participants select a team and a digital stadium. They are given a rugby ball and have to try to score their team's match-winning try – in an interactive space where their attempts are captured live on screen. The footage is projected onto an adjacent screen for the entertainment of the crowd.

NZSM Friday at 5: Kick-off with the New Zealand School of Music Big Band
Date: Friday 9 September 2011
Time: 5-6pm
Where: Wellington Town Hall, Wellington
Cost: Free
Web: nzsm.ac.nz/events
Contact: Stephen Gibbs, 027 557 7854

As Rugby World Cup 2011 celebrations begin around the country, Te Kōkī, the New Zealand School of Music (NZSM) provides an ideal Wellington ‘curtain-raiser’, a free concert featuring the Award-winning NZSM Big Band under the direction of Kiwi jazz legend Rodger Fox. With their big, swinging sound, this concert is sure to get audiences into ‘celebration’ mode!

South African Culture Festival
Date: Friday 9 September – Sunday 9 October
Time: 10am-5pm
Where: Civic Square, Victoria Street, Wellington
Cost: Free
Contact: Beverley Meyer, 021 430 584

The South African Cultural Festival to be held in Wellington is a celebration of South African talent and produce in the form of food, artefacts, jewellery, clothing, beadwork, rugby memorabilia etc. There will also be 15 African musical acts. For the children, face painting, giveaways, free balloons and flags. Tourism will also be promoted.

The Festival Dates include:
10 & 11 September; 17 & 18 September; 8 & 9 October; From 10am to 5pm each day.

Included in the festivities will be…
On the 9th September 2011 there will be a South African National Day celebration at the Te Papa Museum. This will showcase South African arts, crafts and music. We look forward to some surprise guests at this event.

Petone Carnival
Date: Saturday 10 September
Time: 2-8pm
Where: Petone Foreshore, Wellington
Cost: FREE
Web: petonecarnival.co.nz

The Petone foreshore, between the historic wharf and Settlers Museum, will be humming with activity — from carnival rides, bouncy castles and pony rides, to ice and fire sculptures, bands, stalls, delicious food and street entertainment.

Petone Carnival kicks off at 2pm and ends with a spectacular bang at 8pm when the foreshore comes alive with fireworks. The event regularly attracts crowds of more than 40,000 people, all keen to have some fun and enjoy an action-packed line-up. Come and join them! In the event of bad weather the postponement date is Sunday 11 September 2011.

Upper Hutt Spring Festival
Date: Saturday 10 September
Time: 9am–3pm
Where: Main Street, Upper Hutt, Wellington
Cost: FREE
Contact: Tracy Harker or Michelle Moen, 527 0017

Upper Hutt’s Main Street comes alive on the 10th September from 9am to 3pm with a wonderful selection of street stalls, family entertainment, live music, attractions and displays. Upper Hutt City, only a 25 minute drive or 40 min train ride from Wellington, celebrates the uniqueness of its community with the Rimutaka Trust Upper Hutt Spring Festival.

A Game of Two Halves: The Art of the Cliche
Date: Saturday 10 September–Sunday 16 October 2011
Where: Academy of Fine Arts Gallery, Wellington
Cost: $2 entry; extra for ‘Have a go’
Web: nzafa.com/web/
Contact: Academy of Fine Arts Gallery, 499 8807

To celebrate the Rugby World Cup here in "Godzone", the exhibition will be asking our artists to explore ideas around some of our favourite cliches and icons, sports or otherwise. On Friday 23 September and every Saturday and Sunday during Game of Two Halves, the gallery will provide materials and volunteers to assist visitors to "have a go" for a nominal fee.

Wellington Community Choir Performances
Date: Sunday 11 September; Saturday 17 September 2011
Time: 3pm; 5.10pm respectively
Where: Wellington Town Hall; FANZONE (Wharewaka) respectively
Cost: Free
Web: wellingtoncommunitychoir.org.nz/
Contact: Carol Shortis, composer@weebadger.com

Wellington Community Choir is truly a community affair. Singing together since June 2005 they specialise in learning and performing choral music from different traditions around the world. The Wellington Community Choir is directed by Julian Raphael and Carol Shortis.

Black Grace
Date: Monday 12 September–Tuesday 13 September 2011
Time: TBD
Where: St James Theatre, Wellington
Cost: TBD
Web: blackgrace.co.nz

During Rugby World Cup 2011, Black Grace presents a two-night cycle of their much celebrated repertoire to Wellington audiences. This is your opportunity to see why Black Grace has become internationally renowned for its artistry, creative excellence and innovation, while also becoming the leading exponent of Pacific contemporary dance.

Footnote Dance – Roll out the Red Carpet
Date: Monday 12–Sunday 18 September; Sunday 9–Tuesday October
Where: Civic Square, Wellington
Cost: Free
Web: footnote.org.nz
Contact: Deirdre Tarrant, 021 533 725

A colourful and interactive "stop and watch" dance event, six dancers will spontaneously roll out the red carpet in a public space and start entertaining people. The public will be encouraged to join in too.

Kowhiti Dance Showcase 2011
Date: Thursday 15 September–Saturday 17 September
Time: TBD
Where: The Opera House, Wellington
Cost: Ticketed, TBD
Web: kowhiti.org.nz
Contact: Tanemahuta Gray, 021 176 5032

A showcase of Māori and Pacific Island Contemporary Dance will celebrate te puawaitanga o rehia – the blossoming of the dance form in Aotearoa. Programme includes selected New Zealand short works and a South African dance piece to acknowledge the visiting South African Rugby team.

Festival of Sails
Date: Saturday 17 September–Monday 10 October 2011
Where: Royal Post Nicholson Yacht Club, Wellington
Cost: Spectators FREE; $40 per person to take part in the Real New Zealand Yacht Race
Web: rpnyc.org.nz
Contact: Dean Stanley, 021 332 609

The Festival of Sails is all about sharing with you New Zealand’s passion for the sea and our love of sailing and racing upon it. The Festival of Sails includes a mixture of events, where you can come down to Wellington’s iconic waterfront and see some of our best sailors in action, coupled with opportunities for you to have a go at sailing on Wellington's beautiful harbour yourself.

Multicultural Festival
Date: Saturday 17 September 2011
Where: Wellington Town Hall, Wellington
Cost: Gold coin donation
Contact: Raveen Ravindran, 021 153 2149

This is a good time to get up and dance with Wellington’s ethnic communities including African, Irish, Filipina, Malaysian and Latin American. The performances will run throughout the day and into the evening between live screenings of the games.

Wellington Botanic Garden Spring Festival
Date: Saturday 17 September–Sunday 2 October
Time: 9am-5pm
Where: Wellington Botanic Garden, Wellington
Cost: Free
Web: wellington.govt.nz
Contact: Charmaine Scott, 04 472 5684

There will be spring flowers, workshops, walks, talks, concerts and lunchtime entertainment in the Botanic Garden, Otari-Wilton’s Bush and around Wellington city.

Artsplash Music & Wearable Art and Visual Art Exhibition
Date: Monday 19 September–Thursday 22 September
Time:
Where: Wellington Town Hall, Wellington
Cost: $5; Pre-sale tickets are available by phoning Mary Prichard on 027 448 4671. Limited door sales will be available 30 minutes prior to each performance.
Web: wellingtonnz2011.com/festival-events

Over seven days the Artsplash Drama and Dance at the Opera House, Artsplash Music & Wearable Art and Visual Art Exhibition at Wellington Town Hall will captivate friends, family and members of the public.

Thousands of students will perform at Wellington Town Hall accompanied by the Wellington Youth Sinfonietta, Chilton/Gallery Orchestra and the Artsplash Festival Band. Year 7 and 8 students present their Wearable Art creations in a colourful performance. In addition, over 1,000 pieces of art by young Wellington artists will adorn the foyer of Wellington Town Hall.

Footnote Dance – Best of Made in New Zealand
Date: Wednesday 21, Thursday 22 September
Time: TBC
Where: Wellington Opera House, Wellington
Cost: TBC
Web: footnote.org.nz
Contact: Deirdre Tarrant, 021 533 725

In Footnote Dance — Best of Made in New Zealand, works made by top New Zealand choreographers will offer visitors to New Zealand the chance to see something of another kind of Kiwi physicality. The synergies between dance and sport are many, and when the world’s best rugby players are onstage in New Zealand, New Zealand’s best contemporary dancers will be onstage as well.

NZSO: Odes to Joy
Date: Thursday 22 September
Time: 6.30pm
Where: Michael Fowler Centre, Wellington
Cost: Adults from $29 - $115 plus booking fees; available through Ticketek
Web: nzso.co.nz/concerts/concerts_and_tours/odes_to_joy

Considered one of Beethoven's most spectacular masterpieces, this Symphony is one of the best-known works of the classical repertoire. In this concert the New Zealand Symphony Orchestra also perform a new work by celebrated New Zealand composer Gareth Farr, commissioned especially for the REAL New Zealand Festival.

IIlluma
Date: Friday 23 September – Sunday 9 October
Time: Nightly from 7.30pm
Where: Wellington Waterfront, Wellington
Cost: Free
Web: wellingtonnz2011.com/festival-events
Contact: Mike Mizrahi, 021 999 486

Iconic buildings on the Wellington waterfront will be the canvas for an especially commissioned, site specific work by Inside Out Productions. Every evening for a two week period, buildings and structures around the water front area will be transformed with light and colour. Combining spectacular imagery and state-of-the-art technology, this event will be the centrepiece of Wellington's waterfront activities throughout Rugby World Cup 2011.

The Great Living Legends Muck-In – Wellington / Wairarapa
Date: Sunday 25 September
Time: All day
Where: Wellington Town Belt, Wellington
Cost: Free; registration required
Web: livinglegends.co.nz

Living Legends is managing 17 native tree planting projects throughout New Zealand during Rugby World Cup 2011. The Wellington Town Belt is an extensive area of reserve surrounding Wellington City and administered by the Wellington City Council. The site is perfect for the Living Legends initiative as it is a high profile area close to the city with high usage by walkers and it has excellent access for planting through the golf course.

The Wellington/Wairarapa Rugby Legend is one of the best No 8s New Zealand has produced – Sir Brian Lochore. As well as receiving a knighthood in1999, Sir Brian Lochore was inducted into the Order of New Zealand as an additional member in 2007 (the Order of New Zealand is the country’s highest honour).

Pasifika Formal Dinner
Date: Wednesday 28 September
Where: Te Poneke o Wharewaka, Wellington
Cost: Ticketed; please visit pacificartistsvillage.com
Web: pacificartistsvillage.com/other-pacific-events/

A formal dinner hosted by Prof Hon Luamanuvao Winnie Laban , will celebrate the two Pacific teams, Fiji and Tonga that are playing in Wellington during RWC 2011.
The evening will bring together some of the best of Pacific Musical talent to come from Wellington. This exquisite event will be held at Te Wharewaka o Poneke on Wellington's waterfront. Ticket price also includes a delicious three course meal created by KPR Catering.

Old School New School: an art and design history of New Zealand
Date: Wednesday 28 September–Saturday 5 November
Where: The Great Hall, Museum Building, Massey University, Wellington Cost: Free
Web: creative.massey.ac.nz

Old School New School shows you just how creative and inventive Kiwis are in an exhibition that showcases the design objects and associated stories of New Zealanders who have taught or studied design or fine art at Massey University College of Creative Arts in Wellington over the past 125 years. This exhibition is a role call of some famous New Zealanders, including Sir Richard Taylor, John Drawbridge and Gordon Walters.

NZSM Orchestra: In Remembrance: Facing Conflict through Music
Date: Thursday 29 September
Time: 7.30pm
Where: Wellington Town Hall, Wellington
Cost: Ticketed, available through Ticketek
Web: nzsm.ac.nz/events
Contact: Stephen Gibbs, 027 557 7854

On 29 September, 1941, 34,000 Jewish civilians were murdered by Nazi forces at Babi Yar, a ravine in Kiev, Russia. The Holocaust Requiem by Boris Pigovat, a work for solo viola and orchestra, commemorates this event and will be the main work presented by the New Zealand School of Music (NZSM) Orchestra, conducted by Kenneth Young.

The theme of facing cultural conflict through music is given a New Zealand context in this concert through two works by New Zealand composers Anthony Ritchie and Psathas' Luminous .

The concert also includes Schelomo by Ernest Bloch for solo cello and orchestra, the Swiss-born American Jewish composer’s response to the anguish and horror of World War I. The soloist will be Inbal Megiddo, NZSM's newly appointed cello lecturer.

Poneke Pies Masters Rugby Festival
Date: Thursday 29–Friday 30 September
Where: Kilbirnie Park, Wellington
Cost: Registration deadline for teams has passed; Visitors Free?
Contact: Garry or Wayne, ponekepiesmasters@gmail.com

At the heart of the Masters festival will be a series of friendly 'golden oldies' rugby matches. Each team will play two matches of two 20-minute halves each day. The games will be played under standard golden oldies rules with a few local tweaks.
After the games, visitors are invited to relax and socialise with local rugby fans, enjoy an evening of entertainment, great food and tall stories over a few beers. Experience real grassroots Kiwi hospitality, take away lasting memories and make a few new rugby mates from all over the rugby world, don't forget to bring your boots!

42nd Street
Date: Thursday 29 September–Saturday 15 October
Time: Various, see website
Where: St James Theatre, Wellington
Cost: Ticketed; available through Ticketek
Web: stjames.co.nz

42nd Street is a big, bold art deco musical set in 1933 that celebrates the stuff that dreams are made of. It’s a story of hard work, being in the right place at the right time, talent and love - the timeless, inspiring tale of small town Peggy Sawyer's rise from chorus girl to Broadway star. Don't miss this high-kicking, high-energy musical masterpiece priced for all the family to enjoy.

New Zealand in Watercolour
Date: Thursday 29 September–Monday 10 October
Where: Michael Fowler Centre, Wellington
Cost: Free entry
Web: watercolournewzealand.co.nz

Watercolour artists from all over New Zealand have submitted their best watercolour paintings for selection in the exhibition, which comprises over 100 small to medium sized artworks. All artworks are for sale on a "cash and carry" basis, so if you like it you can take it with you. Alongside the exhibition, professional artists will give free watercolour painting demonstrations each day.

Miromoda Fashion Extravaganza
Date: Friday 30 September
Where: Queens Wharf Arena, Wellington
Cost: General admission $70; VIP and other packages available; available through Ticketek
Web: miromoda.com
Contact: Terina Cowan, 473 0557

The event will include a contemporary catwalk show featuring pieces by Māori fashion designers, Māori models and make-up artists alongside vibrant Māori music, art, jewellery and performing arts. The Miromoda Fashion Extravaganza will include both a matinee and evening show.

NZSO: Seven Strings by Candlelight
Date: Friday 30 September
Time: 6.30pm
Where: St Mary of the Angels Church, Wellington
Cost: Adult $50; Concession $45; Student Rush (on day of concert) $15.
Web: nzsq.co.nz

This year, Seven Strings by Candlelight sees the musicians joined by colleagues from the New Zealand Symphony Orchestra for a rich and varied programme.
Alongside Strauss's thrilling string sextet Metamorphosen, outstanding double bass player Hiroshi Ikematsu will join the Quartet to perform Dvořák’s popular Bass Quintet and the programme will be completed by a composition with a Greek flavour Kartsigar, from one of New Zealand’s foremost composers John Psathas.

Tape Art on Te Papa
Date: Friday 30th September–Monday 3rd October
Where: Te Papa, Wellington
Cost: Free
Web: tapeart-nz.com

Come and watch a ‘mural in the making’

A large temporary art work will be constructed from tape on the side of Te Papa. They have three days to create a mural, which stays up for only 24 hours before being removed. Drawing days are Friday - Sunday; ripdown is Monday afternoon.

Well’Come – Hip hop performance by Posuë
Date: Friday 30 September; Sunday 1 October
Time: 12.15pm; 7.30pm respectively
Where: Te Papa & Fanzone, Wellington
Cost: Free
Web: ambafrance-nz.org

New Caledonian hip hop company Posuë will perform their show Well’Come at Wellington’s Te Papa Tongarewa on September 30 and at the fan zone on October 1. Well’Come is a hip hop show, about the search for the term “Posüe” which comes from the island of Lifou and refers to painting the body before traditional ceremonial dances.

Joy Stick Orchestra
Date: Friday 30 September
Time: 3pm
Where: Te Papa, Wellington
Cost: Free
Web: ambafrance-nz.org

On September 30, NOP.nz joystick orchestra will perform in the Soundings Theatre at Te Papa Tongarewa. This alternative group made up of Wellingtonians from varied backgrounds, uses multimedia device connected to joysticks to create music and visual effects.

Dancing in the Street
Date: Various dates between Saturday 1 and Sunday 9 October
Time: Various, see below
Where: Wellington CBD, Wellington
Cost: Free
Web: javadancecompany.co.nz/portfolios/dancing-in-the-street
Contact: Sasha Copland, 027 663 9481

Over eight days, dance jumps off the sidewalk as tightly synchronised choreography and athletic bodies infuse the central city with life — pedestrians will burst into athletic dance moves, strangers will be swept off their feet, the city will become a stage and the streets will be pumping.

Performance Dates & Times (each performance 15 mins approx)
1 October & 5-7 October - 10.30am Midland Park, 12.30pm Cuba St, 1pm Courtenay Place, 5pm Welllington Railway Station
2nd October - 10.30am Midland Park, 12.30pm Cuba St, 1pm Courtenay Place, 2.30pm Welllington Railway Station
8 October - 10.30am Midland Park, 12.30pm Cuba St, 1pm Courtenay Place

Pasifika Artists Collaboration Village
Date: Saturday 1 October
Where: Wellington Town Hall, Wellington
Cost: Free
Web: pacificartistsvillage.com
Contact: Florence Aiono, 021 523 569

Festival of arts, crafts and performance from the local Pacific Island community.

Paua, Pia and Painting – A Day of Art and Food
Date: Saturday 1 and Friday 7 October
Where: Morag Stokes Studio, Wellington
Cost: $145 per person; to register email moragstokes@paradise.et
Web: stokes.net.nz/

As part of the REAL New Zealand Festival, Morag Stokes (Wellington painter and Certified Artist Instructor with GOLDEN Artist Colors Ltd) and Maria Pia de Razza, (renowned Wellington chef, writer and restaurateur) are joining forces for two days only to bring you a unique art workshop and culinary experience at Morag’s home based studio in the northern suburbs of Wellington.

Using the colours and iridescence of New Zealand’s Paua shell as inspiration, Morag will guide you through acrylic painting techniques for capturing something of its beauty on canvas. Over the day you will make two small Paua inspired paintings and an iridescent acrylic skin which you can use in future paintings or craft work. You will use top quality professional acrylic products, including fluid, iridescent and interference paints, pastes, gels and mediums.

All art materials, lunch and refreshments throughout the day are included in the cost. Places are limited to 10 people per workshop so early booking is recommended.

Cutting Edge Sport Presents Rural Sport 2011
Date: Saturday 1 October–Sunday 2 October
Where: Wellington Waterfront, Wellington
Contact: Steve Hollander, 021 973 207 or shollander@xtra.co.nz

The Cutting Edge Rural Sport 2011 experience brings the country to Wellington City with wood chopping, sheep dog trialing and top Kiwi shearers in a shearing competition. Don't miss the opportunity to watch some of New Zealand's top rural sports athletes in three exciting invitational competitions — right on the beautiful Wellington Waterfront.

Kanéka Sound
Date: Saturday 1 October
Time: 2pm
Where: Fanzone, Waterfront, Wellington
Cost: FREE
Web: ambafrance-nz.org/spip.php?rubrique127

Enjoy the sound and rhythm of Kaneka music during a unique concert by New Caledonian band Cada, On October 1. The nine-piece band comes from the village of Hienghene, located on the east coast of New Caledonia. They have been touring New Caledonia for the last five years and are coming to New Zealand to share their passion for music.

Canada’s Fun Zone
Date: Sunday 2 October
Time: 11.30am-2.30pm
Where: Civic Square and Town Hall, Wellington
Cost: Free
Contact: Connor Tieman, 04 495 4117

Bring the kids along for a family fun day in Civic Square on Sunday 2nd October, as we honour Canada during Wellington’s Festival of Carnivale! Canadians and friends will host a variety of fun activities and stalls, including face painting, temporary tattooing, games, puzzles, quizzes, balloon twisting, prizes and giveaways, and even an "ice" hockey demonstration!

Poneke Toi Ora Maori Showcase 2011
Date: Sunday 2 October
Time: 11am
Where: Frank Kitts Park, Wellington
Cost: Free

Cultural extravaganza of Maori culture, language and dance performed by top Wellington based performers. At 3.15pm Te Haa o Pöneke invite the public to participate in a mass haka performance in helping wish the All Blacks well in their challenge for the Rugby World Cup title. Showcase starts at 10:50am with a Maori ceremony opening from Te Haa o Poneke. 11am - 1pm is the FULL Musical Maori Showcase, 2.30 - 3.30pm is a finally of the Maori Showcase.

INSIGHT: An Open Rehearsal at the New Zealand School of Dance
Date: Tuesday 4-Friday 7 October
Time: 6pm
Where: Te Whaea: National Dance & Drama Centre, Wellington
Cost: Donation or koha (minimum $5)
Web: nzschoolofdance.co.nz

Balance your Rugby World Cup experience by watching elite athletes of a different kind at one of the Southern Hemisphere’s leading dance conservatoires.
Whether you’re an aficionado or just curious about dance, this performance is an opportunity to explore this physically demanding and technically precise art form.
Prepare to be inspired, impressed and invigorated by Kiwis taking flight.

Strike Percussion: Batterie 100
Date: Thursday 6 October
Time: TBD
Where: Wellington Town Hall and Fanzone, Wellington
Cost: Free

School children from Porirua and Wellington attend workshops and perform with Strike Percussion.

Maori Art Market
Date: Thursday 6–Sunday 9 October
Where: Te Rauparaha Arena, Wellington
Cost: Adults $10; Concessions $5; group rates available; For ticket information visit www.maoriartmarket.com
Web: maoriartmarket.com

The Maori Art Market is where Māori art meets the world — in New Zealand. Over the past few years this event has grown into the country's largest collection and sale of contemporary Māori art.

NZSM Friday at 5: Brass Extravaganza
Date: Friday 7 October
Time: 5-6pm
Where: Wellington Town Hall
Cost: FREE
Web: nzsm.ac.nz/events

With two Rugby World Cup 2011 Quarter Finals scheduled in Wellington over one exciting weekend, the combined New Zealand School of Music (NZSM) and New Zealand Symphony Orchestra (NZSO) Brass Ensemble will provide a dose of exhilarating musical entertainment as overture to the sporting maelstrom to follow!

The concert is presented as a part of the Friday at 5 series - concerts in which the NZSM comes 'downtown' sharing with Wellington audiences music which reaches out and connects us to our past, future, other cultures and to each other. The concerts all feature the talent and expertise of NZSM staff, students and friends.

Arohanui – The Greatest Love - Wellington
Date: Friday 7-Sunday 9 October
Time: Various
Where: The Opera House, Wellington
Cost: Ticketed, available through Ticketek
Web: tematatini.co.nz

This theatrical production, being staged in Wellington, follows the story of twins who are raised to avenge their father’s death at the hands of mystical people called Patupairehe. The show uses Māori traditional haka, martial arts, poi and musical composition as well as contemporary Māori art forms to bring this love story to life and take you on a moving and emotional journey into the Māori world.

Orpheus Choir – An Evening with Cole Porter
Date: Friday 7 October
Time: 6.30pm
Where: Wellington Town Hall, Wellington
Cost: Ticketed, available from Ticketek
Web: orpheuschoir.org.nz

An Evening with Cole Porter dips into the great American songbook in a concert featuring favourite Cole Porter songs performed by the 100-voice Orpheus Choir, with special guests: New Zealand singer/actor Sarah Lineham, tenor Chris Crowe and a jazz combo from the Vector Wellington Orchestra.

Sports Legends Dinner
Date: Friday 7 October
Time: 6pm
Where: Upper Hutt Cosmopolitan Club, Upper Hutt
Cost: Tickets are $70 available from the Club
Contact: Dean Candy, manager@cossieclubs.org.nz, or phone 027 563 8518

Sports Dinner with guest speakers World Cup winning All Black John Kirwan and Wallaby David Campese, MC Mike Copeland.

The Tudor Consort: Renaissance Influences – Made in New Zealand
Date: Saturday 8 October
Where: St Mary of the Angels, Wellington
Cost: Ticketed; see website
Web: tudor-consort.org.nz

For those in Wellington at Rugby World Cup time, the choir is presenting a special concert, Renaissance Influences — Made in New Zealand. The concert centers on newly written New Zealand works that have grown out of Renaissance music, created for The Tudor Consort by two of the country's most esteemed composers, Ross Harris and Jack Body. Enjoy a day of invigorating contrasts: The Tudor Consort concert is timed so you can take in the unique voices of New Zealand's treasured composers before you head to the stadium for the Rugby World Cup quarter finals.

NZSO: Brahmissimo! A Complete Brahms Experience
Date: Wednesday 12–Saturday 15 October
Time: Various
Where: Michael Fowler Centre, Wellington
Cost: Ticketed; available at Ticketek
Web: nzso.co.nz/concerts/concerts_and_tours/brahmissimo

Over four consecutive nights in Wellington, the New Zealand Symphony Orchestra (NZSO),under Music Director Pietara Inkinen, gives you Brahmissimo! The Complete Brahms Experience, your chance to experience these orchestral masterpieces in a four concert cycle. Whether you take in the full Brahmissimo! cycle or dip into one or two concerts, you’ll be left with no doubt as to why Brahms is among the most revered composers of all time.

Voices of our Ancestors
Date: Friday 28 October
Time: 7.30-9.30pm
Where: Expressions Arts and Entertainment Centre, Upper Hutt
Cost: $25; available at expressions.org.nz
Web: expressions.org.nz/
Contact: Michelle Donohue 04 527 2168

Voices Of Our Ancestors consist of four creative and extremely talented Ngai Tahu women sharing their love of Maori song and story in an infusion of the ancient and the modern that will leave you spellbound.

Rugby in the Olympic Movement
Date: TBC
Where: TSB Arena Building, Wellington
Cost: Free
Web: olympic.org.nz/nzoc/olympic-museum

Rugby union was played at four Olympic competitions. The sport debuted at the 1900 Paris Olympic Games— where the gold medal was won by France. It was also featured at the London Olympic Games in 1908 - with Australasia winning gold; the Antwerp games in 1920 and the Paris games in 1924 - both Gold Medals won by the USA.

The exhibition features a collection of historic Olympic rugby photographs and a historic film of the period.

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