The movies: We've hailed local comedy The Breaker Upperers as new kind of rom-com. It's laugh-out-loud hilarious with co-writers, co-directors and co-stars Madeleine Sami and Jackie van Beek running a two-woman agency who, for a fee, will manage your relationship breakups for you whether that be performing a song and dance number to tell your soon-to-be-ex they're dumped or impersonating policewomen delivering the news that you're missing, presumed dead. It's also fun to play who's who and spot the wealth of Kiwi talent making cameo appearances. The Breaker Upperers, now on at cinemas everywhere
ASB Waterfront Theatre: Back in the day, the play Mrs Warren's Profession caused a right stir because George Bernard Shaw dared to write about prostitution - there are no prizes for guessing what exactly Mrs Warren's profession is - and point out it wasn't caused by "moral failure" but by a bankrupt economic system which limited women's choices. Auckland Theatre Company revives the censored classic with an all-star cast, led by Jennifer Ward-Lealand, and an audacious modern take on morality, judgement, male privilege in the workplace and mother-daughter relationships. Controversy may well ensue. Mrs Warren's Profession, ASB Waterfront Theatre, until May 16
Gallagher Theatre, Hamilton: It seems everyone is dancing these days; they're even doing it on the new Speight's beer commercial because, here in NZ, dancing is actually one of our most popular pastimes. To see how professional contemporary dancers do it, check out The New Zealand Dance Company, which begins a nationwide tour in the 'Tron this weekend. Dancers are on a high after performances in the United Kingdom and Paris' Theatre National de Chaillot, where it was the first NZ work performed at the legendary French institution. They perform three works linked by the connective force of light. A highlight - no pun intended - is sure to be bold, loud and high-energy Brouhaha by local choreographer Malia Johnston. Lumina, Gallagher Theatre, Friday then performances in Christchurch and Nelson before Auckland, Bruce Mason Centre on May 23
Music: New Zealand music month has begun, and while some have mixed feelings about how relevant that is to themselves, it's at the very least a good opportunity to go out and see some Kiwi performers. One of our best and brightest, singer-producer Estere, has just released her new album My Design, On Others Lives, and she's celebrating with a release gig at Auckland's Cassette Nine. Estere has carved out a unique sound for herself, blending electronic beats and RnB sensibilities with world music and funk influences. She's also a magnificent performer, with a killer voice and dance moves to match. Estere - My Design, On Others Lives Release, Cassette Nine, May 5.
Comedy: The New Zealand International Comedy Festival is heading into its second weekend, and there's so much local talent to catch that there's no excuse not to see at least one. 2017 Billy T Award winner Angella Dravid's new show Barceloner runs until Saturday at Q Theatre's Vault, as does David Correos' The Correos Effect. Rose Matafeo's Horndog is close to selling out the Basement Theatre (Thursday-Saturday), while Urzila Carlson is filling up SkyCity Theatre (Thursday-Sunday). If you can't for the life of you choose, try some line-up shows; Snort With Friends on Friday night, the second week of Comedy Allstars (Thursday-Saturday), or The Big Show Auckland 2018 (Thursday-Saturday). The New Zealand International Comedy Festival, multiple performers, multiple venues.