With a new year naturally comes a deluge of fresh events spanning theatre, music, art and cinema. In a bid to help you start 2019 with an injection of cultural inspiration, we have rounded up 10 things not to miss this January.
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Mary Poppins Returns
Mary Poppins Returns
Julie Andrews’ boots aren’t easy ones to fill but Emily Blunt will be making a good job of it as she resurrects the role of child whisperer in early January, 54 years after the original film was released. The whole family best jump aboard this trip back to 1930s London, directed by Oscar nominee Rob Marshall (Chicago).
In cinemas now.
Florence + The Machine
Florence + The Machine
Anyone who has already witnessed Flo and her posse perform live will know that the crimson-haired chanteuse has what it takes to make the ground move before her with performances that are equally impassioned and visceral. Her latest tour, High As Hope, will deliver another emphatic affair featuring all the indie band’s hits alongside new releases like ‘Big God’.
Wednesday, 30th January at Spark Arena. Purchase tickets here.
Green Book
Green Book
In this moving story, Viggo Mortensen plays a rough-as-guts Italian-American bouncer who strikes an unlikely friendship with Mahershala Ali, a highly educated African American pianist on tour in the Deep South, and for whom Mortensen serves as a driver. The film seeks to challenge stereotypes of the period — many of which ashamedly still exist today.
In cinemas 24th January.
Aladdin The Musical
Aladdin The Musical
The classic Disney tale is given new life on stage in this exciting and widely-acclaimed musical. With extravagant sets, lavish costumes and impressive special-effects setting the scene for the story and songs we all know and love, this event is one for the whole family.
On now at Auckland’s The Civic theatre. Purchase tickets here.
St. Jerome's Laneway Festival
St. Jerome's Laneway Festival
One of the most highly-anticipated events of the summer festival circuit, St. Jerome’s Laneway Festival returns to Auckland’s beautiful Albert Park. With a lineup that includes local and international artists including Florence + The Machine, Jorja Smith, Mansionair, High Beams, What So Not, Miss June and so many more, this year’s iteration is shaping up to be one not to miss.
Monday, 28th January. Purchase tickets here.
An Evening with Nigella Lawson
An Evening with Nigella Lawson
Directly from London’s West End, one of the most successful food writers of all time tells the remarkable tale of her culinary journey. Having sold more than 10 million cookbooks worldwide, Lawson gives audiences the chance to meet the woman behind the empire in three New Zealand shows.
Tuesday, 22nd January, Auckland Town Hall
Wednesday, 23rd January, Michael Fowler Centre, Wellington
Friday 25th January, Isaac Theatre Royal, Christchurch
Purchase tickets here.
The Taming of The Shrew
The Taming of The Shrew
Shakespeare’s hilarious tale of misogyny and marriage is being expertly played out at Auckland’s Pop-Up Globe. Brought to life by an exceedingly talented cast dressed in Jacobean garb, expect to be transported back in time to experience the brilliance of the Bard in the surrounds his plays were written for. With limited shows left, if you didn’t see this when it opened in December, don’t miss it this month.
On at the Pop-Up Globe until 3rd February. Purchase tickets here.
Fat Freddy's Drop
Fat Freddy's Drop
The laid-back melodies and instrumental tunes of Fat Freddy’s Drop are an integral part of the quintessential Kiwi summer. Ahead of releasing new music this July, the band is bringing their much-loved music to Western Springs for one night only as part of their 2019 Summer Roadie. The event will also include a line-up of special guests including Unknown Mortal Orchestra, Norman Jay MBE, Ladi6 and more.
Saturday, 19th January, Western Springs. Purchase tickets here.
Mary Queen of Scots
Mary Queen of Scots
Margot Robbie and Saoirse Ronan go head-to-head in this much-anticipated film that follows the historic power struggle between Queen Elizabeth and Mary Queen of Scots. Promising a gripping storyline and some incredible performances, this is one film to add to your must-see list.
In cinemas 17th January.
Conversations with Nick Cave
Conversations with Nick Cave
Renowned musician Nick Cave is bringing his speaking event to Auckland with a show that sees him in conversation with his audience. Promising an open dialogue interspersed with a number of Cave’s most beloved songs, performed by him on the piano, this is set to be the perfect outing for fans and musos.
Thursday, 17th January, Auckland Town Hall. Purchase tickets here.
