Esther Stephens says performing as suffragette Kate Sheppard in the punk rock opera That Bloody Woman is like running for 90 minutes.
"Every show is a work-out," says Esther.
In the high-paced punk rock musical show Esther barely leaves the stage - belting out songs and taking on many transformations during the highly challenging show that mixes music with humour, history and some pretty loud music.
"It doesn't let up from go to woe, which is what the audience enjoys about it."
Written by Luke Di Somma and Gregory Cooper, the show has been received well by the public after first premiering at the Christchurch Arts Festival in 2015.
The suffragette movement in which Sheppard went about securing voting rights for women in 1893 seems streets away from the punk rock movement of the 1970s but both share a revolutionary spirit which is reflected in the show's theme of fighting for equality.
Esther says the feisty role is like a dream as it challenges her physically and vocally. The show featuring about 25 songs.
Although it has some good humour, the show also has a more poignant side and a serious message at its heart.
"People will leave thinking about what we have achieved and what work we have left to do as a nation, says Esther.
Her favourite line from one of the show's songs is all that separates, whether of race, class, creed, or sex, is inhuman, and must be overcome.
"It is a direct quote from Kate herself, and the absolute heart and message of the show."
Her costume is made up of leather, silk, denim, lace and feathers, and has been made to suit her character's high energy needs.
"I am on stage pretty much the whole time so my costume transforms as the show goes along - piece are added and taken away. It's a really amazing look - it's really fun to watch the costume unfold as the show unfolds."
That Bloody Woman is part of the Taranaki Arts Festival and runs for three nights at the Crystal Palace, New Plymouth between August 29-31.
The show is also on at the Hawera Memorial Theatre on September 2. The Stratford Press has two tickets to the Hawera show to give away. To be in the draw please email editor@stratfordpress.co.nz and put Bloody Woman in the subject line.
Alternatively, give us a call on 06 765 5471 and leave your details with us. Competition closes at noon, Wednesday, August 30 and the winner will be contacted later that day.