July 24, 2008

A Horse Story – Blinkers

Michael Hurst    posted 23 Jul 2008, 11:16 PM / edited 24 Jul 2008, 07:29 AM

What is happening at Auckland’s “The Basement” is great stuff – new, energetic, and in my view really exciting theatre. I just saw these two pieces written, performed and produced by Natalie Medlock and Daniel Musgrove, with the first piece “Spurs” directed by Laurel Devenie and the second, ” Blinkers”, directed by Sophie Roberts, and I had a great time. Both pieces were terrific. Excellent direction, clever writing and lovely, skilled performances. Go and see them!

These people are new to Auckland and on this, the opening night, it was a shame that so many of the invited audience didn’t show. Their loss! I’m posting this because it is exactly the kind of work we should be supporting. It was fascinating, new, disturbing, funny, awful, real, outrageous, moving and sharp – absolutely “on point”. I encourage everyone out there to go. These clever, motivated people deserve to be supported, as does The Basement itself, which is set to generate more alternative, vibrant theatre as we move into next year (and beyond). We need this, it is the future, so go! Tell all your friends. It only runs until August 1st!

Did I mention that I had a great time?

Welly Watch       posted 24 Jul 2008, 09:58 AM

Bravo Mr Hurst! The same applies to Wellington audiences getting to Bats for the Sainsbury plays: fresh faces, different approaches, dynamic energies, challenging insights … I would love to think audiences in both cities will jump at the chance to embrace these visiting shows, in spite of them being scheduled against the Film Festival. Make the effort – you will be glad you did.

Michael Wray    posted 24 Jul 2008, 04:37 PM

Talking about The Basement, I’ve been meaning to ask – is there somewhere on-line where upcoming shows are listed?  The only time I know what they’ve got on is when a review appears on this site.

I live in Wellington but get to Auckland quite a bit. I have some influence over what days I spend in Auckland and usually fit around Silo, ATC and Musgrove shows I want to coincide with. It would be nice to know what’s on at the Basement ahead of time.

The Basement   posted 24 Jul 2008, 05:45 PM / edited 24 Jul 2008, 05:46 PM

Hello,

Our website http://www.basementspace.co.nz is currently under construction and should be up and running in the next two weeks. Otherwise check the entertainment guides: Mukuna, View Auckland, Eventfinder, Culture Vulture and Groove Guide for weekly info about events that are going on at the venue.

Also here is the link to our Facebook group page, become a member and I promise I’ll fill your inbox with info about what we’ve got going on:

 http://www.facebook.com/group.php?gid=24230108240&ref=share