Circa Theatre to Present THE KITCHEN AT THE END OF THE WORLD

A powerful reminder that marionette theatre is not just a children's art

After its sell-out debut season, Circa Theatre will present the Wellington premiere of William Connor's enchanting marionette show The Kitchen at the End of the World in January. Directed by award-winning local film maker and animator Steffen Kreft, the play is about the discovery and performance of the mythical Last Song - the world's last truly original combination of musical notes and words.

The story takes place in a forgotten hotel on the edge of the 'Vastness' and is told by marionettes who know they are limited by the extent of their strings - even kissing can tangle them - but who crave what lies beyond their reach. It is a story about home and the unknown, and the courage to face everything in between.

The Kitchen at the End of the World captivated audiences at the Greytown Arts Festival in 2012, where it formed a centre-piece for the three day event, and was described as "fresh, moving", "deep" and "intensely beautiful to watch". For the upcoming Circa production, director Steffen Kreft has gathered the cast back together from New York and Sydney for a long-awaited second season. With a month of intensive rehearsals planned, he is aiming to lift the show to a new level: "I love the script. It works on so many levels - both playful and profound. For me, this show is a powerful reminder that marionette theatre is not just a children's art."

The Kitchen at the End of the World will feature three talented actors and puppeteers: Alison Walls, Catherine Swal- low and William Connor. It also features a haunting music score, written and performed live by Phill Jones. The show stars a cast of nine intricate marionettes, hand-crafted by Steffen Kreft and a stunningly detailed set drawn by Wellington artist Kelly Spencer. This will be a short season so book your tickets early.

The Kitchen at the End of the World will run from 16 -25 January 2015 in Circa Theatre's Circa Two (excluding Monday 19 January). There will be a preview on 15 January. Evening performances start at 7pm and matinee shows on January 17, 20, 21, 23 and 24 at 11am. On Sunday January 18 and 25, there will be just one perfor- mance a day, at 4:30pm. Suitable for children aged 8 and upwards. Bookings through Circa Theatre: 04 801 7992 or www.circa.co.nz

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