Wellington Events - What's on and happening in Wellington, New Zealand from restaurants and cafes to events and services. http://www.wotzon.com http://www.wotzon.com/eventlisting.php?event_id=5025513 http://www.wotzon.com/eventlisting.php?event_id=5025513 Strange News and Undertheradar are tripping out with excitement to bring you, all the way from San Francisco,  for the first time ever in NZ, Wooden Shjips! Good on those who picked it a couple of weeks ago in our Guess Who's Coming To Town special, everything is now confirmed and tickets are now on sale for what will be a mind blowing experience: Head along to Bodega on Sunday 14th March and let the fun begin. Sun, 14 Mar 2010 00:00:00 +1300 http://www.wotzon.com/eventlisting.php?event_id=5025505 http://www.wotzon.com/eventlisting.php?event_id=5025505 Elimination Rounds is a savagely Darwinistic talent show with an anarchic end-of-the-world after-party. Let’s make a night of it! On at BATS from 30 March - 1 April. The “Best Newcomers” of Wellington Fringe Festival 2009, Binge Culture Collective present Elimination Rounds, a reworked and refined evolution of the critically acclaimed Drowning Bird, Plummeting Fish and Animal Hour. In the 1900s we couldn’t stop killing each other. In this century we can’t stop killing the planet, but Generation Y have a notorious reputation for ignoring the warning signs. And so, with reminders of the dire state of the world bombarding us every day, what are we really doing with our time? “If this is our immediate future, I want no part of this. Yet this is unmissable theatre,” Sharon Matthews, Theatreview. Binge Culture emerge fearless from Storytime For The Hungry (“Best Outdoor” NZ Fringe 2010), an anything-can-happen outdoor exploration of Clown and challenges those brave enough to join them for Elimination Rounds, a union of the company’s critically acclaimed productions, Drowning Bird, Plummeting Fish and Animal Hour. Elimination Rounds revisits, refines and interrogates these shows. It’s a raw, brutally honest examination of voyeurism and exhibitionism, and the dark nature of the live event itself. The show opens with Animal Hour, a prime time talent show featuring a live band, ambushed by a wildlife documentary, with the most vicious elements of both. It provocatively probes the ability of art and science to provide “answers”. One contestant is left standing as the talent show gradually dissolves into Drowning Bird Plummeting Fish (“Best Newcomers”, NZ Fringe 2009) – an after party where the beer is warm, the music is shit and the world is ending. In this setting, the party games will be life and death. Producer: Claire O'Loughlin Actors: Rachel Baker, Joel Baxendale Simon Haren, Claire O’Loughlin, Ralph Upton, Fiona McNamara, Rose Guise, Gareth Hobbs, Steph Cairns and Jake Baxendale Tue, 30 Mar 2010 00:00:00 +1300 http://www.wotzon.com/eventlisting.php?event_id=5025500 http://www.wotzon.com/eventlisting.php?event_id=5025500 Come along and listen to music and help raise funds for earthquake victims in Chile by buying food, drinks and raffle tickets available on the night.  All funds raised will go to the relief fund administered by the Chilean Embassy in New Zealand. If anyone would like to contribute money as a way of support for Chilean earthquake victims, the Chilean Embassy in Wellington has set up a bank account for donations:Bank: ANZPayee Name: Chilean Earthquake Humanitarian Relief FundAccount: 01-0505- 0327818-00 Sat, 13 Mar 2010 00:00:00 +1300 http://www.wotzon.com/eventlisting.php?event_id=5025497 http://www.wotzon.com/eventlisting.php?event_id=5025497 Wellingtonians now have the opportunity to see the Court Theatre production of My Name is Rachel Corrie, at BATS from 8-24 April. After a successful season in Christchurch in 2009, Nocturne Theatre in association with The Court Theatre brings the play to Wellington in April 2010. Rachel Corrie was born in 1979 in Olympia, Washington. She had a strong social conscience, a sharp sense of humour and loved a good dance around her bedroom. In January 2003 she travelled to Palestine-Israel as a member of the International Solidarity Movement. On March 16th 2003 she was killed by an Israeli military bulldozer while protecting the home of a Palestinian family. Her death drew world-wide media attention and caused international controversy. Rachel was a prolific writer and My Name is Rachel Corrie is a one-woman play taken completely from her diaries and e-mails, edited by British actor and director Alan Rickman and Guardian journalist Katherine Viner.  In 2005 it opened at the Royal Court Theatre in London and became the fastest-selling play in the theatre’s history. After transferring to the West End in 2006, the production won the Theatregoer’s Choice Awards for Best Director, Best New Play and Best Solo Performance.  The play was set to have its American premiere in New York in March 2006, when the producers indefinitely postponed the U.S debut. Outraged political groups made allegations of censorship, drawing pro-Israeli accusations of bias. The Royal Court withdrew the rights. Eventually the production made its Off-Broadway debut at the Minetta Lane Theatre in October 2006 and has since been produced in over 13 countries. “Stunning. Theatre can’t change the world. But what it can do, when it’s as good as this, is to send us out enriched by other people’s passionate concern”. - Michael Billington, The Guardian (Royal Court Theatre production 2005) “engrossing, gripping, all-encompassing” - Karin O’Donnell, Cityscape, The Forge at The Court Theatre production 2009 After the Christchurch season, Wellington-based actress Kate Prior felt that it was essential that the work be taken to audiences throughout New Zealand. "The play is not simply another solo show or monument to some foreign martyr" she says, "it is a window on a world we find it so hard to imagine. It allows us to come on board with one extraordinarily brave woman in her search for her own values in an increasingly confusing social and political landscape. And she makes you laugh".  Director Lara Macgregor adds, “politics aside, this is a play about Rachel; the daughter, student, co-worker and friend. My Name Is Rachel Corrie is Rachel’s story, told in her own words. Regardless of whether audiences agree or disagree with her views, her life and commitment to her ideals is inspirational.” In addition to the season at BATS, My Name Is Rachel Corrie will tour Wellington secondary schools where the performance will be followed by a student forum. Kate Prior was overwhelmed by the response from Christchurch students to the play, and is keen to bring the show to young people in Wellington. "Rachel was not much older than these 16 and 17 year-olds when she travelled to Palestine-Israel" she says, "and I found the play really struck a chord with many young people. I'm looking forward to some good discussion with Wellington students". Thu, 08 Apr 2010 00:00:00 +1200 http://www.wotzon.com/eventlisting.php?event_id=5025486 http://www.wotzon.com/eventlisting.php?event_id=5025486 Latinarte Wellington Trust and Oye Latino proudly invite you to be part of the First Latin American Music and Dance Festival on 28 March at the Soundshell in the Botanic Gardens. This is a show that has never been seen before. Argentina, Mexico, Brazil, Colombia, Peru, Chile, Cuba… United to show their culture to New Zealand. Experience Salsa, Capoeira, Tango, Rock, Funk, Samba, Grove in one live festival with live performances of: Crazy Fat Brazilian, Son Asere, Latana Band, Wellington Batucada, Viva Latina Dance Company and many more. Sun, 28 Mar 2010 00:00:00 +1300 http://www.wotzon.com/eventlisting.php?event_id=5025482 http://www.wotzon.com/eventlisting.php?event_id=5025482 Julia Deans is set to hit the road in early April, armed only with acoustic guitar and her vocal chords as she performs new songs from her highly anticipated debut solo album, due for release in June. She performs live at The Ruby Lounge in Wellington on Thursday 1 April, with support from talented guest performer Robin Hinkley (Good Laika). Known primarily as front-woman of Fur Patrol, Julia Deans is the possessor of one of modern rock’s most interesting voices - able to shift elegantly between soaring falsetto and assured growl. Over the last few years Deans has been branching out from her comfort zone collaborating with different artists, such as Tiki Taane on his multi-award winning album "Past, Present, Future", all the while working away quietly at her forthcoming debut solo album. The new album has been recorded in three cities - Berlin, Christchurch and Melbourne - with the help of many wonderful, talented friends. Julia will be playing songs from the album in their rawest form. 2 for 1 Tiger voucher to the first 20 people through the door. Thu, 01 Apr 2010 00:00:00 +1300 http://www.wotzon.com/eventlisting.php?event_id=5025481 http://www.wotzon.com/eventlisting.php?event_id=5025481 MASH Trust Living Plus is a day service that provides activities for people with intellectual disabilities at Paraparaumu, Levin and Palmerston North. Its philosophy is that all people are capable of growth and development across their lifespan no matter what their degree of ability. This exhibition, RAW MASH, shows the creative communication between clients of MASH and their support staff. What results from this dialogue are artworks which are the products of collaboration, integration and inclusion. Audiences will be delighted by masks, portraits and other expressive work. All kinds of persona’s emerge as Masks have been used for centuries to provide persona’s that can free people from conventional confines and give opportunities for expression that may not ‘normally’ be allowed. This exhibition will prove that regardless of ability, there is possibility for all to be involved in artistic creativity. Join us for opening celebrations on Thursday 18th March from 5.30pm. ROAR! gallery is a vibrant gallery which aims to support and promote Outsider Art.  In the broadest context we exhibit work by those artists who feel connected to an art making approach which is unique, honest, compelling and about a person’s total connection with their creativity.  We're proud to bring you this thrilling combination of talent and awareness. Thu, 18 Mar 2010 00:00:00 +1300 http://www.wotzon.com/eventlisting.php?event_id=5025480 http://www.wotzon.com/eventlisting.php?event_id=5025480 The Sorcerer's Apprentice is an Interactive Improv Experience for kids 4-10 years old. Working with the world’s greatest magician sure seems like a dream job. But when the job just seems to involve nothing but cleaning up the temptation to try a little of the powerful Sorcerer’s magic is just too much... Join The Improvisors in The Sorcerer’s Apprentice for their first ever improvised show for kids – it’s interactive, great fun and hilarious! In under an hour and with the help of the audience we’ll take you on a magical journey, which is limited only by your energy and imagination. Look out for these Improvisors shows especially for kids at Circa Theatre during all the school holidays in 2010. Tue, 06 Apr 2010 00:00:00 +1200 http://www.wotzon.com/eventlisting.php?event_id=5025478 http://www.wotzon.com/eventlisting.php?event_id=5025478 Skungpoomery, at BATS from 18-27 March, is a visually exciting, physically challenging and emotionally rewarding theatrical experience. Not to mention delightfully mad! Has life lost its jizz and zoom? Are you feeling peck-peck-pecked at? Is your relationship with your knees lack-lustre? Never fear, for the amazing Faz and his feeble minded assistant Twoo will empty the strife right out’ve your life in this madcap comedy of coppers in bins, bloomer-trussed dames and the exploits of the devious pyjama gang! With guffaw and glee Imaginary Bees presents Skungpoomery, a whole new range and catalogue of items and activities for you to lose your wallow and follow the vocab down to your clanging back gums. "Skungpoomery is the world as it should be. Infectious jollies debunking hierarchy - it's the lust for life!" says director Phoebe Smith. Join us at BATS Theatre on 18-20 & 23-27 of March at 9pm (and 3pm on the 27th) for an hour of laugh-out-loud, wee-in-your-pants fun for young and old and all of those whose fingers twitch at an unpressed emergency button. We’ve even got tricks up your sleeves! Thu, 18 Mar 2010 00:00:00 +1300 http://www.wotzon.com/eventlisting.php?event_id=5025476 http://www.wotzon.com/eventlisting.php?event_id=5025476 The Society for the Promotion of Cosplay Culture (SPCC) Incorporated brings you the second Wellington Cosplay Ball. Bigger and better than ever before. The venue for this years ball is Capital E. Nibbles and drinks will be available. Unlike last year, this year we have a theme, STEAMPUNK! This doesn't mean you have to come dressed in Steampunk style of course, but rather to provide inspiration should it be needed. Any other suitable ball/formal cosplay is also fine. Please note this is a non alcoholic, non smoking event, age ranges of attendees are expected to range from 13-50+. The SPCC & WCB Ball committee reserve the right to refuse entry for any reason, including, but not limited to: Intoxication, Abuse, Inappropriate Attire, and Unsafe/Dangerous props. Sat, 24 Apr 2010 00:00:00 +1200 http://www.wotzon.com/eventlisting.php?event_id=5025475 http://www.wotzon.com/eventlisting.php?event_id=5025475 Otaki artist Bee Doughty-Pratt exhibits a selection of her large abstract landscapes, in oil, from the Taylors Mistake Series. Fri, 09 Apr 2010 00:00:00 +1200 http://www.wotzon.com/eventlisting.php?event_id=5025474 http://www.wotzon.com/eventlisting.php?event_id=5025474 Don't miss Totally Rad (Tony Barnao Music), The Renegades Of and The Placid Saints Live at Happy Bar on 17 March. Doors open 9pm, $5 on the door. Wed, 17 Mar 2010 00:00:00 +1300 http://www.wotzon.com/eventlisting.php?event_id=5025457 http://www.wotzon.com/eventlisting.php?event_id=5025457 It's safe to say that Newton Faulkner is one of the family now, and following his visit to New Zealand on Bluesfest 08, our favourite young folk hero is coming back in April to make himself at home on our stages once again. In his relatively young career, Newton Faulkner has shared a stage with James Morrison, Paolo Nutini, The Fray, Chris Martin, John Butler Trio and John Mayer. In 2008 he was nominated for a Brit Award in the Best Male category and played a gig in a hot air balloon over the Swiss Alps, organised by the U.K.'s Virgin Radio. Just a year after topping the charts with his soulful number one double platinum album "Hand Built By Robots", featuring the hit single "Dream Catch Me", a shattered wrist put his career in serious jeopardy. One metal plate and a six-inch scar later, the singer and guitarist extraordinaire went on to create his follow up album, the aptly titled "Rebuilt By Humans". Off the back of this captivating second album and an impressive sell-out UK tour, it seems audiences down under cannot get enough of this flame-haired dread-locked virtuoso…and lucky for us, the feeling is mutual. With each visit, Newton Faulkner brings something bigger and bolder and wins over new fans. Don't miss the opportunity to experience the acoustic guitar as you've never heard it before, when he tours New Zealand Easter 2010. "If Prince was an English hippie who was obsessed with Bobby McFerrin-esque percussion and had long cinnamon dreadlocks, you'd have Faulkner." - Rollingstone.com Mon, 12 Apr 2010 00:00:00 +1200 http://www.wotzon.com/eventlisting.php?event_id=5025454 http://www.wotzon.com/eventlisting.php?event_id=5025454 Introducing... The Arvo Show! Come rain or shine, cats or dogs, you can catch some high quality musical entertainment here at The Southern Cross. Slap bang in the middle of your weekend, we have a wide range of music from Welly, N.Z, and the rest of the world, free for you to enjoy. Come kick back with us and relax this Saturday, Arvo Show styles. This week we are proud to present: Live electronic goodness from Photosphere. Sat, 13 Mar 2010 00:00:00 +1300 http://www.wotzon.com/eventlisting.php?event_id=5025452 http://www.wotzon.com/eventlisting.php?event_id=5025452 This is an event you won’t want to miss. For historical significance, few New Zealand gigs could match the Monde Marie coffee bar. It operated in Wellington from 1958 to 1970 and became a right of passage for budding folkies, who (if they were dead lucky) could rub shoulders with visiting stars like Peter, Paul and Mary or Theodore Bikel.   Run by the colourful Mary Seddon, granddaughter of NZ Premier Dick Seddon, the coffee bar is remembered with fondness for its bohemian atmosphere and good folk music. Many believe it is the original template for the many coffee bars that dot the Windy City’s landscape. For one night at least the Monde Marie is about to come back to life. A ‘Monde Marie Night’ is being organised for Saturday, June 12 this year. Protest folk music from the 60s – the time of US civil rights marches, the Vietnam War and the ’68 Paris uprisings – will ring out again and the coffee bar’s original menus will be served. The previous night there will be a ‘meet and greet’ at the Hazel Restaurant and Bar, which is on the site of the old Monde Marie. Fri, 11 Jun 2010 00:00:00 +1200