Monica Moore News

What did our critic think of TWAS THE FIGHT BEFORE CHRISTMAS at Hutt Repertory Theatre?

A 5th-century Sanskrit playwright who, like Shakespeare and the classical playwrights, wrote about the human condition. The Clay Cart (Mricchakatika) weaves a tale of love, loss, deception, and redemption. The tale is set in the ancient city of Ujjayina, India and focuses on a formerly wealthy Brahman, Chārudatta, who has generously given his funds away in acts of exaggerated charity. He has fallen in love with a courtesan, Vasantasenā, and the trials and tribulations of their romance, mostly caused by the King’s brother-in-law Sansthānaka, provide both drama and comedy.

What did our critic think of HEARTBREAK HOTEL at Q Theatre? Where would you find the cure for heartbreak? In a sad song, a mother’s wisdom, a friend’s advice, biological understanding, or the advice of a stranger in a pub.

What did our critic think of SOMETHING ROTTEN! at Court Theatre? The Bottom brothers set out to write the world’s very first musical, while caught in a bitter battle with Shakespeare (or should we call him Snakespeare?), with hilarious results.

What did our critic think of BRIGHT STAR at Te Auaha?

Director Robin Lane and his team clearly took great care in casting the roles. Tony Smith as Shrek and Bridie Allen as Fiona, the lead roles,  both sang powerfully and took the audience on their flight of fancy. They had good chemistry as the unconventional and heartwarming love birds (or ogres). The supporting players Reuben Su’a as Donkey and Jack Hanrahan as Lord Farquaad were hilarious. Reuben and Jack provided comic relief in the best possible way. Lord Farquaad particularly leaned into the humour of his innovative presentation and Donkey’s wisecracks gave a contrast to the main love story which pulled heartstrings. 

What did our critic think of TREASURE ISLAND THE PANTOMIME at Circa Theatre. Suffice to say, that this show is an absolute treat. Lots to love and exactly what you need when you are heading towards the festive season and you need something to take your mind off the troubles of the day. Highly recommended by this reviewer and all the friends that came with me. We will be booking again next year.

Realism, comedy and romance are all intertwined in the work of Kathryn Burnett who has collaborated with Award-winning screenwriter Nick Ward (Stickmen, Second Hand Wedding, Love Birds, Fresh Eggs, Outrageous Fortune) to create a romantic comedy about a romantic comedy. The script has layer after layer of a cleverly tangled web with unexpected twists that include belly-aching laughter.

Often we describe shows that you must see twice and this one literally screams that. Director Daniel Chasemore has ensured maximum talent and maximum opportunity, by double casting each of the lead roles which ensures no show is the same (as there are multiple actor combinations) and opportunities for many talented actors to share iconic roles and put their own spin on the characters.

What did our critic think of DIRTY WORK at Q THEATRE?

I loved it. The protecting, nurturing; the strength, fortitude, and tireless commitment to their iwi, the painful endurance yet the humour; the unique and heartful humour of Maori. It is extraordinarily exquisite storytelling delivered via phenomenal, theatre.

What did our critic think of SCHOOL OF ROCK at Harlequin Theatre?

What did our critic think of THE GOLDEN ASS at Q Theatre And Artworks Theatre, Waiheke?

I am officially a big fan of Wicked and North Shore Musical Theatre’s production of it. I would encourage young and old to put on their green tights and witch’s hats and get along to the vibrant, enchanting musical for a great night out to see the local talent of a very high quality. Unfortunately, this show is SOLD OUT and that is a testament to its quality.

What did our critic think of THE WORM at Bruce MasonAlbert Latailakepa as the Worm forms a strong ensemble with Semu Filipo (the Old Worm) and Anapela Polatai'vao (the Blind Rat). These characters are well supported by Andrew Grainger and Yvette Parsons who play multiple roles. There is more than enough entertainment for children and adults throughout the journey with its imaginatively humorous encounters between the worms and underground critters.?

There is no question that this was an outstanding production and while the New Zealand Opera Scene seemed to get up and arms about stepping so far out of the normal look and feel of Opera, it brought people like Taylor to the Opera for the first time and who is now very keen to venture into something more traditional as her curiosity is now in play.

Auckland Theatre Company has begun its 30th anniversary year with a heartwarming play with all the great elements of top-class entertainment underpinned by deeper more gripping issues of trauma, loss, healing and the strength of community.

What did our critic think of THE MADE at ASB Waterfront Theatre, Auckland?

The play boils society down to two sorts of people: the ones who are focused on the accumulation of more, and the self-serving leeches who survive off those who accumulate. The audience starts by laughing at the characters but leaves wondering if we were laughing at boldly painted versions of ourselves.  This play deserved its sell-out season. Look out for more of Burnett's work and book quickly!

The compelling layers within layers of tension that expose the complexity of the human condition are exquisitely unraveled in Auckland Theatre Company's latest production, ''Long Day's Journey into Night' currently playing at Q Theatre. I was mesmerised throughout the performance.