2018 SEASON
PHANTOM OF THE OPERA - 2015 Photo by Danielle Colvin SISTER ACT - 2017 Photo by Danielle Colvin
A Message From OUR PATRON As patron of Showbiz Christchurch it gives me great pleasure to celebrate the ongoing success of this valued local organisation with this 2018 season brochure. Showbiz Christchurch, previously known as Christchurch Operatic Society Incorporated, staged its first show in 1938, so this year marks eighty years of entertaining the people of Christchurch and their guests. That is a remarkable legacy for any organisation, and one that is to be celebrated. In those eight decades more than 2,000,000 people have attended wonderful large scale musical entertainment, and over 30,000 Christchurch theatre lovers have participated directly onstage, backstage, and behind the scenes to bring those shows to life. As a city we are blessed by the collective talent, passion and generosity of all those people that have been part of the history of this iconic organisation. Since the opening of the re-built Isaac Theatre Royal in 2014, Showbiz Christchurch have exceeded all past expectations with a feast of world class musical theatre. From Phantom of the Opera in April 2015 to Sister Act in September 2017, more than 105,000 patrons have passed through the theatre doors, and experienced the best of Broadway, here in Christchurch. As patron, I am delighted that Christchurch will be the premiere city for a New Zealand theatre company production of Wicked. Building on the enormous success of last year s inaugural major Showbiz concert, the bringing together of the music of Cole Porter and Andrew Lloyd Webber in July is sure to delight. Completing the year with the return of a beloved favourite, Les Misérables, seems fitting in this anniversary year. Congratulations and thanks to Showbiz Christchurch for bringing these world class productions to the people of Christchurch. I hope you will enjoy many a memorable evening of exhilarating musical theatre at a Showbiz production in Christchurch s treasured heritage theatre. Kind regards Kind regards Lianne Dalziel Mayor of Christchurch 2018 promises to continue the journey of excellence with a season line-up of some of the biggest names in the world of musical theatre. 1
PRISCILLA QUEEN OF THE DESERT - 2017 Photo by Danielle Colvin AN EVENING OF RODGERS & HAMMERSTEIN CLASSICS- 2017 Photo by Wendy Riley
Welcome to The 2018 SEASON For eight decades, Showbiz Christchurch has been well-recognised as the producer of the best in musical theatre that the city can experience. Since our return to the Isaac Theatre Royal in 2015, we have had a spectacular run of eight tremendously successful seasons. Our now-standard fare of three productions per year continues in 2018 with what is shaping to be our biggest year to date: Wicked The back-story of the two witches from the Wizard of Oz, Wicked is now the second largest grossing show in Broadway history. Its sumptuous score by Broadway megacomposer Stephen Schwarz contains the hugely successful single Defying Gravity. Broadway Hitmen Our toe in the water concert in 2017 proved to be a real success. This year, we continue the concert format combining the witty genius of Cole Porter with the melodic mastery of Andrew Lloyd Webber. Les Misérables Undoubtedly one of the greatest musicals (modern operas?) of all time, Les Misérables is one of those shows that keeps bringing audiences back time after time. Our original production in 1994 played for four weeks and put 33,000 people through the Theatre Royal - the second longest season in the theatre s history. Our success is due in no small way to the on-going support of our numerous industry partners and business sponsors, in particular our major funders the Christchurch City Council, Mainland Foundation and Christchurch Music Theatre Education Trust. These partnerships are built on a spirit of co-operation and trust and an aspiration for excellence. It gives us great pleasure to announce a new partnership with Saunders & Co who have come on board as our 2018 season sponsor. I trust this will be the beginning of a long and rewarding relationship. Most importantly, I need to thank you in advance, the theatre lovers of Christchurch for your ongoing support. With the incredible array of talent which Showbiz Christchurch has to draw upon both on-stage and behind the scenes, our 2018 programme is one not to be missed. Kind regards Markham Lee Showbiz Christchurch President 3
The Season Showbiz Christchurch Production of Music and Lyrics by Stephen Schwartz Book by Winnie Holzman Based on the novel by Gregory Maguire 4 Orchestrations by William David Brohn Musical Arrangements by Alex Lacamoire & Stephen Oremus Directed and Choreographed by Stephen Robertson Associate Choreography by Glen Harris Musical Direction by Richard Marrett Licensed exclusively by Music Theatre International (Australasia). All performance materials supplied by Hal Leonard Australia.
THE 2018 SEASON The Defining Musical of the Decade. The New York Times OPENS: 6 APRIL The Showbiz Christchurch 2018 season of WICKED is the New Zealand theatre company premiere of one of the most successful shows of all time on Broadway and winner of three Tony s, six Drama Desk Awards and a Grammy for the original cast album. Wicked tells the incredible untold story of an unlikely but profound friendship between two girls who first meet as sorcery students at Shiz University: the blonde and very popular Glinda and a misunderstood green girl named Elphaba. Following an encounter with The Wonderful Wizard of Oz, their friendship reaches a crossroads and their lives take very different paths. Glinda s unflinching desire for popularity sees her seduced by power while Elphaba s determination to remain true to herself, and to those around her, will have unexpected and shocking consequences for her future. Their extraordinary adventures in Oz will ultimately see them fulfill their destinies as Glinda The Good and the Wicked Witch of the West. With music written by Grammy, Tony and Academy Award-winning composer Stephen Schwartz (one of only four composers to have three of their shows last for more than 1000 performances on Broadway) the Showbiz Christchurch season of Wicked will be directed by Stephen Robertson, with musical direction by Richard Marrett, and choreography by Stephen Robertson and Glen Harris. This family-friendly musical is the definition of a Broadway spectacular, with original and new costumes, and an international set with additional design by Harold Moot. Please Note: This production contains smoke haze, strobe lighting and loud noises. Opening: 6 April 2018 for a limited season at the Isaac Theatre Royal. Evening performances: 7:30pm Tuesday - Saturday Matinées: 4pm Sunday 8 & 15 April; 2pm Saturday 14 April. Duration: 2 hours 50 minutes including a 20 minute interval. Tickets: start from $60 (includes GST, a $2.50 ITR Heritage Levy and Ticketek service fee). All bookings at Ticketek 0800TICKETEK ticketek.co.nz/showbiz 5
The Season Showbiz Christchurch Production of BROADWAY HITMEN A Concert of Cole Porter and Andrew Lloyd Webber Hits Featuring full concert orchestra, soloists and a large chorus Musical Direction by Ravil Atlas Stage Direction by Nickie Wellbourn 6 All performance materials supplied by Origin Theatrical Pty Ltd
THE 2018 SEASON Hits from Two of the Greatest Musical Theatre Song Writers... Wonderful! ravil atlas SEASON: 13-15 JULY Broadway Hitmen follows on from the grand success of the 2017 midyear concert An Evening of Rodgers and Hammerstein Classics. Orchestra, soloists and a large chorus will fill the Isaac Theatre Royal stage to present a concert of back-to-back hits from two of the biggest names in musical theatre, Cole Porter and Andrew Lloyd Webber. American born Porter wrote the music and lyrics of over 800 songs during a career spanning five decades, conquering both Broadway and Hollywood. He was renowned for soaring melodies, offset with urbane and witty lyrics giving rise to his signature musical genre known as the Cole Porter song. His full length musicals remain classics on stage and screen with icons like Anything Goes, Can Can and Kiss Me Kate finding new audiences with every decade. Many of his greatest songs, such as Night and Day have endured, covered by modern stars: Michael Bublé, Robbie Williams, Lady Gaga and many more. British born Andrew Lloyd Webber is arguably the best known name of musical theatre in the modern world. In 2017 he became the first composer to have four musicals playing simultaneously on Broadway since 1953. Webber grew up with the musicals of Porter, Rodgers and Hammerstein and Gershwin as his childhood inspiration. He enjoyed early success working with lyricist Tim Rice in the late 60s with a small pop cantata called Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat. From this humble beginning, Webber went on to compose some of the world s most beloved and successful musicals including Evita, The Phantom of the Opera, Jesus Christ Superstar, CATS and Sunset Boulevard to name just a few. This concert of two of the greats of musical theatre will be an unforgettable evening. The superb on stage orchestra under the baton of Ravil Atlas with soloists and a large chorus promises to lift the dome off the Grand Old Dame. Opening: 13-15 July 2018 for a limited season at the Isaac Theatre Royal. Evening performances: 7:30pm Friday - Saturday Matinées: 2pm Saturday 14 July; 4pm Sunday 15 July. Duration: 2 hours 15 minutes including a 20 minute interval. Tickets: start from $60 (includes GST, a $2.50 ITR Heritage Levy and Ticketek service fee) Senior Citizens Concessions available for all seats in every performance. All bookings at Ticketek 0800TICKETEK ticketek.co.nz/showbiz 7
The Season SHOWBIZ CHRISTCHURCH PRESENTS A new production of BOUBLIL and SCHÖNBERG S 8 Licensed exclusively by Music Theatre International (Australasia) and CAMERON MACKINTOSH LTD. All performance materials supplied by Hal Leonard Australia.
THE 2018 SEASON Les Misérables is Entrenched in Our Culture as a Musical for the Ages. Huffington Post OPENS: 14 SEPTEMBER The epic tale of broken dreams, passion and redemption set against a nation in the throes of revolution. Winner of over 100 international awards and seen by over 65 million people worldwide, Les Misérables is an epic and uplifting story about the survival of the human spirit. This true modern classic is based on Victor Hugo s novel and features one of the most memorable scores of all time. Great Drama Never Gets Old In nineteenth century France, Jean Valjean is released from 19 years of unjust imprisonment, but finds nothing in store for him but mistrust and mistreatment. He breaks his parole in hopes of starting a new life, initiating a lifelong struggle for redemption relentlessly pursued by police inspector Javert. Epic, grand and uplifting, Les Misérables packs an emotional wallop that has thrilled audiences all over the world. This pop opera features a cast of exceptional singers and overflows with melodies. A spectacle on Broadway and the West End, Les Misérables is a powerful affirmation of the human spirit that has become a popular masterpiece. This Showbiz production will be directed by Stephen Robertson with musical direction by Richard Marrett. Please Note: This production includes gunfire, smoke and flashing light effects. It is not recommended for very young or sensitive viewers as the content may disturb. Opening: 14 September 2018 for a limited season at the Isaac Theatre Royal. Evening performances: 7:30pm Tuesday - Saturday Matinées: 4pm Sunday 16 & 23 September. Duration: 2 hours 55 minutes including a 20 minute interval. Tickets: start $60 (includes GST, a $2.50 ITR Heritage Levy and Ticketek service fee). Illustration of Young Cosette sweeping by Émile Bayard, 1862. Reproduced in Les Misérables by Victor Hugo published in 1887. All bookings at Ticketek 0800TICKETEK ticketek.co.nz/showbiz 9
2018 SEASON Season subscription discounts available for all Premium and A Reserve seating purchased prior to 31 January 2018. 10% Purchase Premium or A Reserve seats for one Showbiz 2018 production prior to 31 January and receive a 10% Discount.* 20% Purchase a second Showbiz 2018 production at the same time and receive a 20% Discount.* 30% Purchase for all three 2018 productions prior to 31 January and receive a 30% Discount saving up to $30 per seat.* *Conditions apply. Discounts apply to standard full price Premium and A Reserve seating when purchased as a single transaction prior to 31 January 2018. Bookings for multi season discounts are available from Ticketek Box Office, by phoning 0800 842 538 or on-line at www.ticketek.co.nz The discount does not apply to the $2.50 Isaac Theatre Royal Heritage Levy component of the ticket price. STAGE STALLS PREMIUM A RESERVE B RESERVE C RESERVE REHEARSAL STUDIOS FOR HIRE Purpose built Studios with on-site parking available for hire in the central city 3 Studios for dance, theatre or vocal rehearsals Sprung floors, mirrors, pianos, sound systems and heat pumps Modern kitchen and breakout facilities Casual hires or regular bookings with competitive hourly/ ½ day/day and week rates available 7 days / nights 10 369 St Asaph St. For more information email admin@showbiz.org.nz
Standard Ticket Prices: Premium: $110.50 A Reserve: $100.50 B Reserve: $90.50 C Reserve: $60 Senior & Students*: $70 STAGE GRAND CIRCLE * Not available for Premium category seating throughout the season or on Friday / Saturday 7.30pm performances of Wicked or Les Misérables. Book now at Ticketek Ph: 0800 842 538 or ticketek.co.nz/showbiz Group Ticket Prices: Premium (6+) : $100.50 A Reserve (6+): $90.50 B Reserve (6+): $80 For Group Bookings Ph: 03 379 0597 or email groups@ticketek.co.nz STAGE DRESS CIRCLE 5 All ticket prices include GST, a $2.50 ITR Heritage Levy and Ticketek service fee. For more information email bookings@showbiz.org.nz TRAINING AND WORKSHOPS Events, training and workshops in all aspects of musical theatre production and performance Audition Workshops Technical Workshops Specialist visiting tutors Showbiz Vocal Studio weekly group vocal tuition for musical theatre singers of all levels. showbiz.org.nz 11
Officers of Christchurch Operatic Inc. Patron Hon. Lianne Dalziel, Mayor of Christchurch President Markham Lee Vice President Sarah Greenwood Buchanan Board Violet Blay Phillip Blacktopp Nickie Wellbourn Diane Brodie QSM Life Members Ruth Aitken Mae Arnold Sue Beardsley Diane Brodie QSM Julie Collender Gail Deavoll Zylpha Harrison Marlene Le Cren Jill Simmonds Rita Tie Markham Lee Robert J Naysmith Peter Simmonds QSM Bramwell Sutton Hon. Vice Presidents Jan Cosgrove Brian Brodie Fiona Buckley Alan Collins Allison Collins Anne-Marie Gilmore Mary Kirby Vicki Morris-Williamson Liann Scott Hon. Solicitor Hamish Taylor Hon. Auditor Bevan Smith Hon. Historian Zylpha Harrison Christchurch Music Theatre Education Trust Chair Sue Beardsley Secretary / Treasurer Zylpha Harrison Trustees Peter Simmonds QSM Marlene Le Cren Markham Lee Hon. Solicitor David Lang Showbiz Christchurch Management Team General Manager Michael Bayly Ph: (03) 377 5224 Email: genmgr@showbiz.org.nz Production Manager Johnny Morris Ph: (03) 365 0841 Email: prodmgr@showbiz.org.nz Administration & Accounts Sandi White Ph: (03) 377 7954 Email: admin@showbiz.org.nz Marketing Manager Wendy Riley Ph: (03) 377 9215 Email: comms@showbiz.org.nz 369 St Asaph Street PO Box 2185 Christchurch 8140 Ph: (03) 377 7954 Fax: (03) 377 5491 Email: admin@showbiz.org.nz Web: showbiz.org.nz NASDA THEATRE Musical Theatre open mic night. 9 Singers, 2 Songs each, 1 Pianist and a crowd. Unplugged and fun. For enquiries email - wayoffbroadway@showbiz.org.nz 12
Thank You Showbiz Christchurch gratefully acknowledges the following funders, supporters and partners: 2018 SEASON SPONSOR PRIMARY OPERATIONAL PARTNERS GOLD PARTNERS FUNDING AGENCIES & SUPPORTERS MEDIA PARTNERS INDUSTRY PARTNERS HOSPITALITY PARTNERS SUPPLIER PARTNERS
2018 SEASON BROADWAY HITMEN