13 Jun 2019

Keeping it Kiwi for Musical Theatre Unleashed

From Upbeat, 1:00 pm on 13 June 2019

This weekend Kiwi voices singing Kiwi tunes takes centre stage for Musical Theatre Unleashed.

That Bloody Woman

That Bloody Woman Photo: Supplied

The one night only showcase at the Wintergarden in Auckland features all New Zealand musical theatre actors, with all New Zealand written music.

It’s the first of its kind, providing paid opportunities to perform in this setting for actors and for audiences to experience unique New Zealand musical theatre.

Luke di Somma

Luke di Somma Photo: supplied

Musical theatre composer and lyricist Luke Di Somma’s work will be performed, including songs from his highly successful Kate Sheppard punk rock musical That Bloody Woman. A few original pieces will also feature.

But bringing together New Zealand musical theatre isn’t as easy as it sounds, as curator and director Ryan Jacobs found out.

Musical Theatre Unleashed curator and director Ryan Jacobs

Musical Theatre Unleashed curator and director Ryan Jacobs Photo: Supplied

Luke and Ryan join David Morriss in the studio to discuss the Kiwi singing style, why it’s important to provide more opportunities to those working in the industry and what they hope to achieve through Musical Theatre Unleashed.