Kids make masks for CreationFest matinee

FUN FACES: Mask mania takes over at the Blue Baths as kids prepare for CreationFest. PHOTO/SUPPLIED

For one special CreationFest matinee performance, doors are being flung open free of charge to all primary school students.

The catch? Making a mask.

CreationFest builds on the former Wearable Creationz event and includes film and live performance categories, as well as the much-loved wearable arts, culminating into what promises to be a spectacular, highly entertaining show for the audience. And on Tuesday, July 15, primary school-aged children are being invited to get involved in the creativity.

All who attend the Tuesday matinee are encouraged to make and wear a mask of their own creation. Masks will be judged on the day with winning creators invited up on stage to receive prizes.

CreationFest costume designer Ian Harman said encouraging creativity was what the show was all about.

"The best thing about CreationFest is that there's something for everyone - even the littlies. They may not have been old enough to enter the big competition, but we'd still love for them to make something."

And the creativity continues with the second matinee performance on Wednesday, July 16, where audience members of all ages are invited to attend the Mad Hatter's Tea Party. Those who attend the matinee have the opportunity to join in the festivities by creating and wearing their own decorative hat. Both matinees are sponsored by First Sovereign Trust, with an invitation particularly extended to the elderly to attend the Wednesday show. The Mad Hatter will also be serving high tea, with dainty cakes, lemonade scones and all the trimmings.

The three evening sessions are also themed, from Thrifty Thursday's casual to dazzle dress code, the Rotorua Daily Post People's Choice evening featuring festive funky style, and the grand finale Gala Awards Evening including a cocktail hour and formal but whimsical black tie dress code. Evening shows also include dinner packages for those wanting to make a real occasion of the night.

CreationFest is on over five shows from July 15 to 19. Tickets are on sale now, with bookings essential for all performances. For more information visit www.creationfest.co.nz.