In rural Australia, a bunch of misfits find their perfect harmony.

The Heartbreak Choir

by Aidan Fennessy

14 FEB - 4 MAR 2023 — FINAL WEEK

About.

Company

Auckland Theatre Company

Venue

ASB Waterfront Theatre

Duration

2 hours 20 minutes including interval

Advisory

This production contains coarse language, mature themes, references to sexual assault and references to suicide. Recommended for ages 15+

FINAL WEEK - SEASON MUST CLOSE SAT 4 MARCH 

Effervescent, hilarious and big-hearted, this is a summer comedy that makes a big noise.

“Music can lift us out of depression or move us to tears – it is a remedy, a tonic, orange juice for the ear.” – Oliver Sacks

If you want to be in, then you must be supportive, tolerant, giving and collegiate. Or else!

There’s been a bit of drama in the local choir. Splintering off from the original group, a small band of oddballs have gathered in a quintessentially country town hall to begin again. It’s cold, it’s musty and the heater is on the blink. But they’ve got a new name, they’ve got their voices and they’ve got each other. All they need now is a song to sing. Will our heroes find a way to harmonise?

Ella Fitzgerald once said, “the only thing better than singing is more singing”. The Heartbreak Choir is a testament to the power of community and the possibility that can be found in healing. This Aussie hit is packed with glorious song and tiny little miracles of friendship and optimism. Wild, wonderful comedy that will charm its way into your hearts. The perfect start to your year of theatre.

“Big voices, small town politics, and a collective desire to be and do good: for each other and for the greater community.” – ArtsHub Australia

“We need some laughs right now and this new comedy is filled with recognisable Aussie characters brought to life by a choir of our funniest actors in full voice.” – Jonathan Bielski

Single tickets now on sale! Subscribe to the 2023 Season and save.

The Heartbreak Choir was commissioned with the assistance of Melbourne Theatre Company’s NEXT STAGE Writers’ Program and was first produced by Melbourne Theatre Company in 2022.

*The role of Barbara will be performed by Lara Macgregor on Friday 24 and Saturday 25 February.

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REVIEWS

“Perfect balance of both comedy and the dramatic.”
Andrew Whiteside
“Top-class entertainment.”
Broadway World
“A delightful feel good play.”
New Zealand Arts Review
“A love letter to the connection of local community.”
Keeping Up With NZ

SHOW PROGRAMME

SPECIAL EVENTS

Backstage Story

UPDATE (31 Jan): Please be advised that due to the weather warning in place for Auckland, Backstage Story, due to take place on Tuesday 31 January, is cancelled. 

Discover the world behind the curtain with a behind-the-scenes presentation with the director, designers and cast during the rehearsals period of the show. Event is free and open to all. 

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Sunday Forum

Stay after the performance to hear from a special guest speaker who delves more deeply into the world and themes of the play. Enrich your theatre-going experience with a thought-provoking discussion and gain insight into the wider context of the work. Come intrigued; leave inspired.

Sun 19 Feb 6:00pm
ASB Waterfront Theatre
Free
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Pay What You Wish

If you've never been to the theatre before, or you keep making excuses not try, then join us on Pay What You Wish night. Everyone is welcome and yes, you can literally pay what you wish. Tickets on sale 3 weeks before the performance.

Tue 21 Feb 7:00pm
ASB Waterfront Theatre
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ACCESSIBILITY

NZSL-Interpreted

by Platform Interpreting NZ
Sat 25 Feb 8:00pm
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Audio-Described & Touch Tour

by Audio Described Aotearoa
Sun 26 Feb 4:00pm
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