Random acts of Christmas in the BIG Little City

Media Release entertainment 1
14 December 2009

Random acts of Christmas in the BIG Little City

Time travelling scientists, NZ’s top hip hop and tap dancers, a taniwha and exploding volcanoes are just a few acts taking over Auckland’s CBD this Christmas.

The streets of the BIG Little City are taking on a distinctively theatrical twist in a series of interactive shows organised by STAMP at THE EDGE and supported by Heart of Auckland City and Auckland City Council.

Local and international artists are creating colourful and lively pavement theatre performances for the public to enjoy as they continue their Christmas shopping.

In addition to the taniwha performing an aerial extravaganza from the top of the Civic building, naughty fallen angels are spreading mischief, and twisted Pacific carols are set to ring out across the city.

For those who want to be fully immersed in the fun, Future Hotel has created Beckett Says, a sort of ‘Simon Says’ for the modern shopper. Those ready to take the plunge as players in this sound exploration of the city are sure to have their Christmas shopping experience transformed.

Those heading to Christmas parties can drop in to Cirque Du Salon on Sunday or Monday where Avant Garde hair and makeup wizards can give you a festive makeover.

Pla la la Parade introduces two intrepid acrobatic scientists on a mission to track down a taniwha distraught at discovering vast amounts of plastic rubbish in the Pacific Ocean and find out why he has taken up residence in one of Auckland’s most historic civic buildings.

HACKMAN productions, the creators of the award winning Apollo 13, return with one of their signature interactive designs with Auckland Ahoy! A deadly serious nod to our explosive volcanic landscape complete with volcanologist and active volcano – kids watch out!

Hailing from Melbourne, the Fallen Angels have lost their heavenly privilege of flight and now the interactive comic characters have landed in Auckland looking to turn our streets into their new playground.

Heart of Auckland City’s CEO Alex Swney says the theatre street performances bring exciting new life to the city’s festive celebrations.

“You see this type of interactive theatre in Europe and it’s about time we did something similar in New Zealand. Except there is a difference - we’ve added our own distinct Kiwi flavour and are proud to premiere three brand new Auckland performances for the street, alongside the best in national and international artists.”

The magical combination of local and international performing artists has been designed to enliven our streets and surprise and entertain shoppers during the last minute Christmas rush.

The shows and performances appear on street corners and the tops of classic Auckland City buildings every afternoon from Saturday December 19 until Christmas Eve.

ENDS

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