A feast of live theatre set to mark 20 years of Summer Shakespeare

Manawatū Summer Shakespeare is getting set to celebrate 20 years of the popular annual event, with what’s described as a ‘kick-ass package that will ignite all your senses’ by Director Rhian Firmin, Te Ati Hau nui Apāpārangi, Ngāti Ruaka.

This year's production can be described as dark and edgy, with the accompaniment of live, grungy rock and roll and te reo Māori intertwined throughout. The performance makes for a speculator theatre ‘feast’ to be consumed by all at the upcoming Manawatū Summer Shakespeare series that kicks off on 24 February.

After three years of comedy, audiences will be delighted to see one of the greatest love stories of all time – Romeo and Juliet. Set in the romantic ātaahua and iconic Victoria Esplanade Rose Gardens, Romeo and Juliet will be brought to life by a passionate and energised crew that will deliver an explosive and dynamic exploration of feuding families, with a rich and engaging tragedy at its centre.

Director, Rhian Firmin says she wanted to bring a Shakespeare play to life like never before, one that appeals to everyone.

“With this production, we’ll bring to life a gritty but vibrant take on Romeo and Juliet. A tino rawe aesthetic of glam rock meets grunge rock, waiata, combat and more. There will be carnage and beauty, joy and sorrow all rolled into a kick-ass package brought to life by a magic ensemble both onstage and offstage.”

Manawatū Summer Shakespeare was launched in 2003 by Massey’s former award-winning playwright Professor Angie Farrow, whose dream was to make live theatre more accessible and affordable for everyone.

The popular event is a community collaboration between Massey University, Palmerston North City Council (PNCC), local funding bodies and corporate sponsors. It’s supported by the Visiting Artist Scheme, which contracts a professional practitioner every year to direct the project.

Rhian Firmin has been part of Manawatū Summer Shakespeare for over a decade. First as an Actor, then everything in between, and now in her new role as Director. Ms Firmin intends to invest in the values and concepts of Te Ao Māori in positive and vibrant ways throughout the production, including the use of ‘rockin’ waiata harmonies’ that she hopes will captivate the audience.

“We’re grassroots Shakespeare but aim to have high production values and world-class interpretations,” she says.

The bicultural, bilingual cast of 26 includes first-time participants as well as regular local favourites, with ages ranging from 18-76. “We’ve also got icons with crossovers from all corners of the creative community, so the show is delivered proudly by the community, for the community,” Ms Firmin says.

Manawatū Summer Shakespeare is one of the only live theatre shows in New Zealand to not have a set ticket price. Ms Firmin explains that Shakespeare should be available and be enjoyed by everyone.

“Bring a comfy chair or a picnic blanket and enjoy what our stellar cast has in store for you.”

Event details

Romeo and Juliet: Victoria Esplanade Rose Garden (above the pond).

Performances on Feb 24, 28 and March 1, 2, 3, 4 at 7pm.

Matinee on 25 Feb at 5pm. 

Entry by koha (donation/gold coin).

For more information follow Summer Shakespeare's Website, Instagram or Facebook.