Embark on a spellbinding journey across the wild landscapes of Africa in The Animal Kingdom, a dazzling fusion of ballet, dance, drama and vibrant African culture, presented by the students of Rebecca Bignall Dance.
Experience the beauty and power of the savannah brought to life through breathtaking choreography, pulsating rhythms, and vivid storytelling. From the graceful movement of the Springbok to the commanding presence of the Lion, each dance captures the essence of the continent’s rich wildlife and spirit.
The Animal Kingdom is a celebration of movement, music and unity. A spectacular showcase of cultural pride and artistic imagination; a performance that will move your heart and ignite your senses.
Join us on our journey through Africa!
Early Bird prices only available for some performances. Discount ends Wednesday 3 December.
Matilda The Musical is the multi-award-winning theatrical triumph inspired by the beloved book by the incomparable Roald Dahl.
With a book by Dennis Kelly and original songs by Tim Minchin, this Tony and Olivier Award-winning musical celebrates the anarchy of childhood, the power of imagination, and the inspiring story of a girl who dares to change her destiny. Matilda has captivated audiences around the globe, winning over 100 international awards and thrilling sold-out houses from London to Broadway.
Matilda is a brilliant, brave little girl with a vivid imagination and extraordinary powers. Despite being neglected by her self-absorbed parents, she finds solace in books and in her kind-hearted teacher, Miss Honey. But life at school is far from easy, especially under the tyrannical rule of the terrifying headmistress Miss Trunchbull. With courage and cleverness, Matilda proves that even the smallest among us can stand up and make a difference.
Bursting with high-energy choreography, unforgettable songs and dazzling performances, Matilda The Musical is a joyous celebration of girl power and the magic of storytelling.
Featuring an all-local cast, including some of Nelson’s most talented young performers, this production promises to be a theatrical event not to be missed. Join us for a magical night at the theatre and witness the wonder of Matilda!
When the Theatre Royal is not in use, we can take small groups on a tour around the building.
Learn about the history and the major refurbishment, look at 19th century artefacts, and see the technical side of the theatre, with backstage and on stage access.
Please note, there are quite a few stairs to negotiate.
Maximum 10 people.
Additional tour dates may be added.
Alternative days may be available upon request.
Uncover a trail of magic and mystery behind the scenes at the Theatre Royal with an expansive, app-driven nature adventure for 4–10 year olds featuring puzzles, quests and characters.
What are those rumblings and grumblings underneath the theatre? Where is that mysterious 'ribbeting' coming from? And is that monkey wearing a tie? Uncover the trail of magic and mystery on a quest to find a precious taonga.
A world of puzzles and play, rich in colour and sound, can be found in the places you least expect – and in corners of the theatre you have never seen before.
Who What Where Now is an adventure experience guided by a bespoke mobile app on both Android and Apple devices.
Perfect for ages 4-10. Adult supervision required. Most fun in groups of 2-6 people.
Choose the session time that suits on the Book Tickets page.
A Binge Culture Production
Devised by Joel Baxendale, Oliver Devlin and Ralph Upton
Supported By: CUIK
This one's for the young hearts, the old hearts, and the broken hearts.
Story, science and a synth combine in an exhilarating performance that examines what happens in our bodies when we’re bereft. From acclaimed New Zealand company EBKM, Heartbreak Hotel tracks a woman’s broken heart in a wrenching and relatable journey that's studded with classic break-up songs and razor-sharp observations on the physiology of love.
Enjoy an hilarious, honest take on a universal human experience, and leave feeling all the better for it.
Fresh from smash-hit shows at RISING Festival in Melbourne, Edinburgh Fringe Festival, and a season at Soho Theatre London.
Winner of Best Play at TimeOut Australia Arts and Culture Awards
Winner Actor of the Year (Karin McCracken) at the Wellington Theatre Awards 2024
Winner Sound Design of the Year (Te Aihe Butler) at the Wellington Theatre Awards 2024
“One of the best productions I’ve seen this year... a tender-hearted exemplar of what can be accomplished when creative stagecraft meets authentic, measured storytelling.” — TimeOut Melbourne ★★★★★
“I defy even the coldest cynic to resist the aching charm of this unapologetically tender two-hander. Hijacks your nervous system and fast-tracks its way into your soul.” — The Scotsman ★★★★
“Slickly staged and sharply written...as funny as it is wistful.” — The Stage ★★★★
12+
Supported by: Rutherford Hotel Nelson
Viking Ha! contains a tale they missed out of the famous Viking sagas.
A tale of true friendship and growing into becoming your real self.
A tale of standing up for each other.
A tale of the lesser-known minor deities of Norse mythology.
A tale of Vikings & Dragons (NB no dragons will be trained in this production).
A tale of odd socks, bad puns and all the usual pantomime silliness.
Release your inner Viking. Release your inner Dragon. Release your laughter.
Come and have some fun – you deserve it.
Legacy Arts Presents Aladdin Jr!
Ring bells! Bang the drums! You are going to love this exciting stage adaptation of the legendary tale of the lovable thief with the heart of gold!
Join Aladdin, Jasmine and the fast-talking, wisecracking Genie, as they discover mystical caves, take magic carpet rides, and outwit the evil sorcerer, Jafar.
Adapted especially for young performers, this musical includes favourite Alan Menken songs such as “Friend Like Me”, “A Whole New World”, and “Prince Ali”, as well as wonderful new songs added for the Broadway production. With new, colourful characters and non-stop adventure, Aladdin JR. is sure to be a crowd-pleaser for all ages!
Filled with powerful gospel music, outrageous dancing, and a truly moving story, Sister Act JR will leave audiences breathless.
When disco diva, Deloris, witnesses a murder, she is put in protective custody in the one place the cops are sure she won't be a found, a convent! Disguised as a nun, she finds herself at odds with both the rigid lifestyle and uptight Mother Superior.
Using her unique disco moves and singing talent to inspire the choir, Deloris breathes new life into the church and community but, in doing so, blows her cover. Soon, the gang is giving chase, only to find them up against Deloris and the power of her newly found sisterhood.
Join Alex the Lion, Marty the Zebra, Melman the Giraffe, Gloria the hip hip Hippo and those hilarious, plotting penguins as they bound onto your stage.
Based on the smash DreamWorks movie, Madagascar – A Musical Adventure JR follows all of your favourite crack-a-lackin’ friends as they escape from their home in New York’s Central Park Zoo and find themselves unexpectedly in the madcap world of King Julien’s Madagascar!
From Stromboli to D’Urville Island
Martine Baanvinger returns with her powerful, passionate and dynamic solo show Red Heavens, inspired by the book Angelina by New Zealand author Gerard Hindmarsh.
Red Heavens portrays the true story of Angelina Moleta, an Italian pioneering immigrant whose fate is intertwined with the forces of nature, a bitter family feud and her deep connection with Wetekia Ruruku Elkington, a high-born Māori woman.
Written, directed & performed by Martine Baanvinger
Music & Soundscape by Mark Manson
Inspired by the book Angelina by Gerard Hindmarsh
