11 July 2014
Waikato ‘world premier’ musical celebrates opening night success
Hamilton’s Clarence St Theatre was packed-out last night as hundreds of locals flooded in to see the opening night of
world premiere New Zealand rock opera musical ‘State Highway 48’.
The locally written musical is based on the at-times “tumultuous” journey of life at middle age and set to continue
showing at the Hamilton-based theatre for the next two nights.
And following opening night, the writer himself, Hamilton musician Chris Williams, couldn’t be more impressed with the
turnout or the standard of performance.
“Last night was an amazing life experience. I have been working on State Highway 48 for the previous five years and was
incredibly excited, albeit nervous, to finally share it with the region.
“And it all exceeded my expectations. Lead performers Bryan Bevege and Kersten Hickman are truly some of Waikato, and
New Zealand’s, leading performers. They captured the emotion of the musical in a way that was raw and real,” he said.
“Hundreds of people came to enjoy the show, and ticket sales are looking similarly impressive for the next two nights. I
hope as many locals as possible will choose to see what State Highway 48 has to offer.”
Following its premiere at Clarence Street Theatre, State Highway 48 is one of the only musicals written by a New
Zealander performed to such a large commercial extent.
The musical, told through lyrics, melodies, and dance, traces a typical middle-aged couple, their kids and their friends
as they grapple with their daily lives, relationships and work.
“Really it’s a commentary on life at middle age, intended to help make us all feel that it’s perfectly normal to have
some ups and downs, and that we can all feel comfortable in our own skins. I also wanted to emphasise what’s important,
which above all is communication and family,” Williams said.
“Eventually I’d like to tell the State Highway 48 story to a world-wide audience. I want people to go away fully
entertained; but also with the feeling that they related to the story.
"It’s a reminder that sometimes those who appear to be on top of things are those who are most struggling. Everyone has
their own battles they are struggling to overcome, whether it is relationship issue, work, or something else.
“Expect laughs, a few tears, and a happy ending,” he said.
Tickets are available now through www.sh48.co.nz or through Ticketek.
ENDS