DISNEY'S FINDING NEMO JR
2023-09-22 19:00 - 20:30, 2023-09-23 14:00 - 16:30, 2023-09-23 19:00 - 20:30, 2023-09-24 16:00 - 18:00, 2023-09-25 16:00 - 18:00, 2023-09-27 19:00 - 20:30, 2023-09-28 19:00 - 20:30, 2023-09-29 19:00 - 20:30 UTC | The Playhouse, 198 Church Street, Timaru, 7910, New Zealand
Don’t miss the amazing opportunity to dive into the enchanting underwater world of Disney’s Finding Nemo JR. at The Playhouse, Timaru.
From September 22nd to September 30th, 2023, the South Canterbury Drama League presents this captivating stage adaptation of the 2003 Pixar movie Finding Nemo.
Join Marlin, an anxious and over-protective clownfish, as he resides in the vibrant Great Barrier Reef with his spirited kid Nemo, who yearns to explore beyond their anemone home. However, when Nemo is captured and taken to Sydney, Marlin must overcome his fears and embark on an epic oceanic adventure to find his cherished son. Along the way, he encounters a host of lovable characters, including the optimistic and very forgetful Dory, the laid-back sea turtle Crush, and the supportive Tank Gang, all of whom play a pivotal role in shaping their unforgettable journey.
With new music composed by the award-winning songwriting duo Kristen Anderson-Lopez and Robert Lopez, Disney’s Finding Nemo JR. brings a captivating 60-minute spectacle to life on stage. Relive the heartwarming moments with memorable songs like “Just Keep Swimming,” “Fish Are Friends Not Food,” and “Go With the Flow.” This theatrical masterpiece is a celebration of family, friendship, and the triumph of the human spirit.
You will be enchanted by our talented young cast as they transport you to the mesmerising realm of the Great Barrier Reef. With captivating storytelling, foot-tapping tunes, and spectacular costumes, Finding Nemo will leave you spellbound.
Gather your friends and family for this not to be missed experience that combines laughter, adventure, and heartfelt moments. Book your tickets now to secure your seat on board an unforgettable big blue world of at Disney’s Finding Nemo JR.
Production Team: Director – Ella Thomas, Musical Director – Catherine Anderson, Choreography – Georgia Carnegie
Team Coral: Nemo – Sophie Dunn, Marlin – Ethan Payne, Dory – Ruby Kenner
Team Anemone: Nemo – Saku Ehlers, Marlin – Zepplyn Anisy Oudemans, Dory – Emily Jones

Glorious
2023-10-27 19:30 - 2023-11-04 21:30, 2023-10-28 19:30 - 2023-11-05 21:30, 2023-10-29 19:30 - 2023-11-06 21:30, 2023-10-30 19:30 - 2023-11-07 21:30, 2023-10-31 19:30 - 2023-11-08 21:30, 2023-11-01 19:30 - 2023-11-09 21:30, 2023-11-02 19:30 - 2023-11-10 21:30, 2023-11-03 19:30 - 2023-11-11 21:30 and 1 more date
In 1940s New York, the performer who everyone wanted to see live was Florence Foster Jenkins, an enthusiastic soprano whose pitch was far from perfect. Known as “The First Lady of the Sliding Scale” she warbled and screeched her way through the evening to an audience who mostly fell about with laughter. But this delusional and joyously happy woman paid little attention to her critics, instead she was surrounded by a circle of devoted friends who were almost as eccentric as she was.
Based upon a true story, the play spins from Florence’s charity recitals and extravagant balls, through to her bizarre recording sessions and an ultimate triumph at Carnegie Hall in this hilarious and heart-warming comedy.
PLEASE NOTE:
Grand Gala Opening – come dressed a la Foster-Jenkins or 1940s fashion! Prize for Best Dressed.
Bar will be open before and after each performance.
Wheelchair seating – please call 0508 iTICKET (484 253) to book.

JANUARY Theatre School Holiday Programme
2024-01-15 09:00 - 2024-01-19 19:30
In a record 3 days we have filled our under 12 programme but are taking a waiting list so please contact the Manager manager@dramaleague.org.nz to go on the list.
We still have plenty of spots for our 12+ class.
The South Canterbury Drama League invites registrations for the Theatre Workshop School Holiday Programme on at the Playhouse from the 15th – 19th January 2024.
Early Bird finished 1st December – Registrations close 15th December.
Your tutors Alice Sollis, Ella Thomas and Georgia Carnegie are looking forward to taking students through a five day programme of theatre.
Open to children aged 12+ this programme, will provide an opportunity for learning in a workshop environment. A fantastic, fun programme for newcomers and experienced performers alike, will help children learn, polish and develop skills in theatre.
YES we are encouraging your 12+ year olds to come along to this one. The programme ends with two live performances on the Playhouse stage on the Friday 19th your child must be available for this.
Musical Theatre Master Class -12yrs old +
Improv/advanced acting techniques/open dance call/dance improv/examining text in song/vocal techniques and much more..
DATES: Mon 15th – Fri 19th January
TIMES: 10.30am-3.30pm
PERFORMANCES: Friday 19th 3pm and 4.30pm
PRICE – $190
MEMBER – $170
FAMILY DISC. take 10% off participation fee *doesn’t include membership fee.
The easiest way to sign up is online so please CLICK HERE to go to our website.
NOTE: Invoices will be sent please don’t pay prior. Registration is complete on payment.
The participation fee for our holiday programmes, also covers a 12month Junior membership which will entitle your child to member benefits which include:
A free drinks voucher/Discount off show tickets

Clothing Sale
2024-04-06 10:00 - 13:00
Bring a bag with you for our clothing sale which is on at the Playhouse this Saturday.
We have cleared out a lot of stock from our costume hire and will be selling this off this Saturday between 10-1pm. This is a ONE DAY ONLY SALE!!
Some items are prices as marked but alot of items are just a koha.
Come and grab yourself a bargain and help us clear this stock.
Cash and EFTPOS available.

Tuck Everlasting
2024-04-11 19:00 - 2024-04-20 21:00
The South Canterbury Drama League Junior High School Section is proud to present TUCK EVERLASTING.
What would you do if you could live forever?
Get ready to be whisked away on a magical journey with ‘Tuck Everlasting’ the enchanting award-winning stage show that will capture your heart and imagination. Based on the novel by Natalie Babbitt, this captivating musical tells the tale of young Winnie Foster, who stumbles upon a mysterious family with an extraordinary secret: they’re immortal!
Join Winnie on an adventure filled with friendship, discovery and an extraordinary choice: return to her life or continue with the Tucks on their infinite journey where they truly do live forever. With catchy tunes, heartfelt performances, and dazzling choreography, ‘Tuck Everlasting’ will take you to a world where time stands still and every moment is precious.
So, invite your friends and family, and make memories that will last a lifetime with ‘Tuck Everlasting’. Don’t miss your chance to experience the magic of this unforgettable musical sensation – get your tickets now and prepare to be swept away!

Costume Hire Opening Soon
2024-05-01 18:00 - 20:30
Do you need a costume??
We are excited to announce that after months of clearing out, cleaning out and organising our costume hire, we are opening the doors on Wednesday 1st May 2024.
Thank you so much for your patience.
How we do things has changed.
1. Opening hours – Wednesday nights 6pm – 8.30pm.
2. Appointment bookings – book on line with one of our friendly volunteers.
Booking link is https://scdlcostumehire.simplybook.net/v2
Walk in’s may be possible but not guaranteed so plan and book ahead.
3. Schools, theatres and groups (over 5 people) – we will do bookings for you at another time to suit.
Contact Kem Kallaghan costumehire@dramaleague.org.nz
Thanks everyone for your support and we’ll see you at the Playhouse Costume Hire soon.

Auditions BLACKADDER II
2024-07-07 17:30 - 22:00
Blackadder II: a cunning plan to take the stage for Christmas.
Auditions: Sunday 7th July 2024, 5.30pm at the Playhouse
Show Dates: 21st November – 7th December DIRECTOR Annette Farr
Assistant Director/Secretary
Chris Cheesman – email for an audition pack
3cheesmanz@gmail.com
Based on the legendary BBC TV sitcom, this hilarious show transports us back to Elizabethan England for a banquet and entertainment.
The scheming Lord Edmund Blackadder exploits his withering wit and cowardly cunning to seek his fortune at court.
As ever, Blackadder’s ambitions are constantly hampered by his idiotic sidekicks – the aristocratic buffoon Lord Percy and turnip-loving Baldrick.
To gain favour with Queenie, Queen Elizabeth I, he must also contend with the eccentric ramblings of Nursie and the crafty scorn of Lord Melchett.
Brought to you by the team who staged the hugely successful production of Blackadder Goes Forth in 2018, directed once again by Annette Farr.
We are presenting a duo of the very best and funniest episodes from Rowen Atkinson, Richard Curtis, Ben Elton’s and John Llyod second series: combined with a Christmas Banquet complete with troubadours and entertainers at the meal break. This will be the entertainment of the season. Join us on or off stage.
If you have any questions about the audition pieces or characters, please contact the
Director – Annette Farr farrannettem@gmail.com or Production Secretary/Assistant Director Chris Cheesman 3cheesmanz@gmail.com for an audition pack.

July Theatre Workshop School Holiday Programme
2024-07-08 09:00 - 2024-07-12 15:00
The South Canterbury Drama League invites registrations for the Theatre Workshop School Holiday Programme on at the Playhouse from the 8th – 12th July 2024.
Early Bird finishes 27th May – Registrations close 21st June
Your tutors Sarah Prentice and Hayley Goodman are looking forward to taking students through a five day programme of theatre.
Open to children aged 7+ this programme, will provide an opportunity for learning in a workshop environment. A fantastic, fun programme for newcomers and experienced performers alike, will help children learn, polish and develop skills in theatre.
All ages sessions learning and developing
Acting techniques/dance/singing/and much more..
DATES: Mon 8th – Fri 12th July
TIMES: 9-3pm
PERFORMANCES: Fri 12th July 3pm and 4.30pm (your child must be available for these performances to take part in the programme)
PRICE – $190
MEMBER – $170
*FAMILY DISC. take 10% off participation fee *doesn’t include membership fee.
The easiest way to sign up is online so please CLICK HERE.
NOTE: Invoices will be sent please don’t pay prior. Registration is complete on payment.
The participation fee for our holiday programmes, also covers a 12month Junior membership which will entitle your child to member benefits which include:
A free drinks voucher/Discount off show tickets/costume hire discount

Freaky Friday
2024-07-26 19:30 - 2024-08-10 21:30
An adaptation of the classic novel and beloved films, Freaky Friday follows teenager Ellie Blake and her mother, Katherine, on the weirdest, strangest, craziest, freakiest day of their whole lives. Try as they might, Katherine and Ellie just can’t seem to understand each other: Ellie wants her mom to stop trying to change her, while Katherine wants her daughter to be the best version of herself that she can be.
On a fateful Friday, the day before Katherine’s wedding, something magical occurs when mother and daughter swap bodies. Now, both will have to一literally一spend a day walking in each other’s shoes, learning about each other and the struggles each goes through and forging a new mother-daughter relationship in this hilarious, energetic, and moving musical comedy.

HONK JR.
2024-09-27 19:00 - 2024-10-05 21:00
Honk! JR
Experience the heartwarming magic!
Click on the BOOK NOW for session times and to book tickets.
Dive into the charming world of Honk! JR., a delightful musical by George Stiles and Anthony Drewe, the creators of Mary Poppins. This captivating adaptation of Hans Christian Andersen’s The Ugly Duckling celebrates our uniqueness with sparkling wit, memorable characters, and beautiful music.
Meet Ugly, a duckling different from his siblings. Despite his mother’s protective care, the other farm animals point out his differences. Feeling downcast, Ugly embarks on an adventurous journey of self-discovery. Along the way, he encounters unique characters, including a cunning Cat and a beautiful swan named Penny.
Honk! JR. beautifully illustrates that being different is to be celebrated. This story blends laughter and tears. Audiences will enjoy a performance that is witty, hilarious, and deeply moving, leaving them inspired and uplifted.
The Junior version of Honk! is specially adapted for young performers, making it the perfect introduction to musical theatre for children and families.
Join us for an unforgettable experience that will warm your heart. Get your tickets now and be part of this magical journey!

Quiz Fest - Three fun themed quiz nights!!
2024-10-31 18:30 - 2024-11-02 21:00
Little Theatre & Repertory have come together to present Quiz Fest, three nights of quizzes, each with its own theme.
Thursday 31st October, Halloween.
Friday 1st November, High Seas.
Saturday 2nd November, Saturday night Fever.
PRIZES
Winning team, best team name, best dressed team, best wrong answer.
Come along, have some fun. We will have the bar operating & raffles to buy which will be drawn each night.
Email littlerepertory@gmail.com to book in a team, $10 per person, pay on the night.

BLACKADDER II GROUP BOOKINGS OPEN
2024-11-21 19:00 - 2024-12-07 22:30
Based on the legendary BBC sitcom, prepare to be transported back to the hilarious, historically-inspired world of Blackadder that has captivated audiences for decades. Blackadder II – The Golden Age is a special production that takes us to the raucous, scheming court of Elizabethan England, where the ever-conniving Lord Edmund Blackadder navigates the treacherous waters of royal favour through his unparalleled wit and cowardly cunning.
On Blackadder’s side are his hapless, idiotic sidekicks – the pompous, aristocratic buffoon Lord Percy and the perpetually turnip-obsessed Baldrick, whose sheer stupidity never fails to undermine Blackadder’s ambitions.
To gain the coveted approval of the eccentric, rambunctious Queen Elizabeth I, known affectionately as “Queenie,” Blackadder must also contend with the eccentric ramblings of the elderly, nonsensical Nursie and the crafty, scornful Lord Melchett.
Enjoy a sumptuous Elizabethan Christmas banquet complete with troubadours and other festive entertainers – this will undoubtedly be the must-see comedic event of the season, transporting audiences back to a bygone era of court intrigue, slapstick absurdity, and Blackadder’s signature biting wit.
FOOD
Feasts & Fancies: Bill of Fare (Please include specific dietary requirements at time of booking)
King Henry’s Ham (worth losing your head over)
Kate’s cross-legged chicken
Sir France’s new potatoes from the New Land
Percy’s Salad sensations
Baldricks Vegetarian surprise
Nursies plateful of sweet treats to finish

******AUDITIONS THE SECRET LIVES OF EXTREMELY OLD PEOPLE
2025-02-01 08:00 - 2025-02-02 17:00
Auditions
“The Secret Lives of Extremely Old People”
Are you ready to step into the lives of five compelling characters and explore the challenges and unexpected joys of extreme old age?
The South Canterbury Drama League invites you to audition for The Secret Lives of Extremely Old People by Rachel McAlpine, presented by arrangement with Playmarket.org.nz.
This thought-provoking play is inspired by real stories of nonagenarians. Blending humour, emotion, and storytelling, it asks the poignant question: “Is life worth living after 90?”
About the Play:
An intimate and at times confronting production, it offers a glimpse into advanced aging through five individuals navigating love, loss, and the complexities of life in their nineties:
· A devoted couple who have overcome a lifetime of struggle.
· A free-spirited musician embracing her truth.
· A Māori kuia rediscovering her heritage and reclaiming the cultural identity she was denied for much of her life.
· A privileged, educated man with a distinguished career, confronting social injustice and inequality.
FULL CHARACTER DESCRIPTIONS HERE
Why Audition?
The opportunity to bring complex characters to life to challenge and inspire audiences. Experienced actor or new to the stage, this play offers a chance to explore what life will be like in the 90’s.
Performance Details:
· When: 8–17 May 2025
· Where: The Playhouse, Timaru
· Directed by: Chris Thomas
Audition Information: Auditions are by booking only. Please contact Chris to secure your spot:
· Phone: 027 297 9643 · Email: chris@specialevents.co.nz
· Audition Dates: Saturday, 1st February, or Sunday, 2nd February 2025
· Time: 10am–2pm
Don’t miss the chance to be part of this serious and fun production!

An Evening with Joe Bennett
2025-02-28 19:30 - 21:30
The South Canterbury Drama League is hosting
“An Evening with Joe Bennett” at The Playhouse, 198 Church Street on the 28th Feburary at 7.30pm.
Born in England, Joe Bennett has lived in New Zealand since 1987.
His newspaper columns are syndicated throughout the country and he has several times been judged New Zealand Columnist of the Year.
Thirteen collections of his columns have been published in New Zealand and three world-wide. He has had four travel books published by Simon and Schuster UK, and his work has been translated into Chinese, Korean, Greek and American. Where Underpants Come From was the Whitcoulls Travcom Travel Book of the Year in 2009.
Be entertained with his wit, wisdom and humour at this special one night only event.

Questions from the audience are entertained as long as they are entertaining.
Tickets available from iTicket and Timaru Information Centre

Fame & 80s Musical Extravaganza
2025-04-03 19:00 - 2025-04-12 21:00
The South Canterbury Drama League Junior High School Section is proud to present FAME Jr and 80’s Extravaganza
Get ready for a high-energy, toe-tapping night out with South Canterbury Drama League’s production of Fame Jr and the ultimate 80s extravaganza! For one ticket price, you’ll get two incredible shows in one. Act One brings the Broadway blockbuster Fame Jr, a dynamic story of ambition, passion, and perseverance set to an electrifying score. Then, Act Two cranks up the nostalgia with an all-out celebration of classic 80s hits—think Thriller, Footloose, Eternal Flame, Total Eclipse of the Heart, and many more!
It’s an unmissable night of powerhouse performances, iconic tunes, and pure foot-stomping fun. Don’t miss it!
