The Lyric Theatre

Filled with joy and exuberant energy, Mundi trio have captured hearts across the land and far-flung seas.

Mundi trio comprises Brazilian percussionist Ricardo Stuani, guitarist and dancer Chris Dabinett and flautist, vocalist, percussionist, dancer and composer Tamara Smith. In this Arts on Tour performance Mundi perform a new series of compositions that weave together the two oldest instruments in human’s history – flutes and percussion- into a sizzling array of duelling Brazilian/African percussion with vocal melodies soaring above.

With dances, choreographed by Tamara intertwined, these exciting new compositions lure people into an ancient memory of the pulse of life and awaken our dancing selves lurking beneath.

“I don’t think anyone wanted the music to end and thus an encore was demanded and happily delivered with as much energy, skill and joy as the Mundi Trio had shown throughout.”

- Reefton

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Heti has created lyrics and tunes most of her life. Adie and Heti have been together for over thirty years both as partners in life and making music and it shows in their performance. The connection is palpable. Musically Adie skilfully weaves in and out of the lyrics and keyboard either on lead or rhythm guitar or violin, whilst Heti’s soulful melodies ring out with lingering words to reflect upon. Heti loved listening to female artist growing up, Carol King, Patti Smith, Nina Simone, Billy Eilish amongst many. She also enjoyed David Bowie, Pink Floyd and Van Morrison. Her unique songs are from a personal view looking at herself and humanity, body, soul and spirit and the World we live in. She loves engaging with an audience, creating connection and a memorable evening for everyone.

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Birdlife Productions are back with a new puppet and music show using exquisite puppetry, live music, lots of giant caterpillar fun! ‘Aya and the Butterfly’ is a heart-warming, joyful story about a little girl who finds happiness through her experience of the metamorphosis of the Monarch Butterfly. Designed for families and ideal for children aged 3 to 9 years, Aya’s story encourages compassion and empathy for different cultures, and helps us all become part of an important movement of change towards living together in peace, and all the while featuring plenty of magical puppet moments, music and songs, and lots of joining in!

“My three kids were enthralled and believe me, it’s hard to find something they all love with an 8-year age gap from youngest to oldest! The evolving set was just stunning, with the garden bursting into full bloom. I was as captivated as the children"

- Lottie Butcher

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Homegrown chanteuse Jackie Clarke turns her powerhouse vocals, wicked humour and maverick entertainment style to interpret the songs of the 20th and 21st Centuries most legendary divas. Ms Clarke pays homage to Judy Garland, Shirley Bassey, Peggy Lee, Barbra Streisand and more! From Alberta Hunter to Dolly Parton, from Kate Bush to Lady Gaga, Jackie lets her diva flag fly, while playfully interacting with the audience with trademark witty panache. Accompanied by her trusty sidekick Maestro on piano, expect iconic songs performed with tender soul and gleeful virtuosity. In 2018 Jackie Clarke was awarded an MNZM for services to entertainment; 40 years treading the boards in theatre, (Mamma Mia, Shirley Valentine) music (When The Cat’s Been Spayed, The Lady Killers) and T.V. (NZ Idol).

"Jackie Clarke is a whole variety act on her own. She is at home doing Mary Poppins and Whistle Down the Wind with the kids ensemble as she is belting out Don’t Rain On My Parade from Funny Girl or the comic characterisations of Nobody Does it better, from Seesaw. Her comic abilities were well to the fore in the letter songs from Tell Me On A Sunday, showing her superb talent right from the very first song, Lady is a Tramp."

- Richard Mays

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‘The Orange Box’ pays homage to captivating artistry with spirited circus acts, intricate puppet craftsmanship, and enchanting illusions — from hand puppets to marionettes and shadow puppets to the finesse of contact juggling and buugeng. Beyond entertainment, it carries a profound message, inviting us to step outside the box where true magic unfolds. Step into the magical realm of Naranjarte, an extraordinary Spanish company founded by visionary artists Ana Lorite and Sergio Aguilar in 2011. Naranjarte’s performances aren’t just shows; they are immersive journeys challenging perceptions and transporting audiences to realms of wonder and delight.

"A symphony of puppetry, juggling and illusion"

- NZ Herald

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Shades of Shakti are an intercultural group of musicians bridging the gap between traditional Indian music, classical music and Jazz. Their performance mesmerises audiences through the intricacy of the musical interplay, the propulsive energy of their melodies, the excitement of their rhythms, and the overall interconnectedness of all the performers on stage. A collaboration that seeks to bring communities together and celebrate human diversity through music.

“Bringing together musical influences from different sides of the world to create something fresh and unique and reinforce the notion that music knows no borders… One of those rare ensembles that transcend into the sonic stratosphere”

- Bret McKenzie (Flight of the Conchords)

“The ultimate blend of authenticity and virtuosity. Their musicianship is second to none – an eclectic mix of acoustic instruments.”

– Chris Gee (Black Seeds, Fly My Pretties, Anika Moa)

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