What's On: 1958 - The Musical

The fun and colourful 50s are being brought back to life in  1958 _ The Musical, which will run at the Blue Baths until February 15.

The  Blue Baths Emerge Entertainment's musical comedy features talent from around the country and is a follow-up to  last year's popular 1931 _ The Show.

 

Blue Baths managing director Jo Romanes formed the Rotorua-based company to foster and develop emerging Kiwi talent and 1958 _ The Musical does just that.

Written by  actors Dena Kennedy and Darlene Mohekey,  it is based around a group of actors working on a New Zealand movie and alternates between their professional and private lives.

Directed by Kennedy, the show features a cast of seven actors and eight dancers, the latter all local. Choreography is by Rotorua talent Chloe Woolford, who danced in 1931, and the cast have been based  in Rotorua since November.

Kennedy, a New Zealand Drama School graduate who has worked in television and theatre for the past decade, said Emerge Entertainment was providing Kiwi performers with a platform  to develop their professional careers.

"Roles in bigger, well-known shows in places like Auckland often go to performers who are already known. We're giving emerging talent a chance to experience what it's like to be a professional,'' she said.

"Last year's show in Rotorua was really well supported and we think locals and visitors to the city will  enjoy what we've come up with this year.

"The 50s was such a fun and colourful era and that's what our show is _ fun and enjoyable. I think in tough times like now, entertainment can be something really positive. We want to bring a smile to people's faces.''

Kennedy said Wellington designer Dan Williams had created an "awesome'' set  and the colourful costumes,  designed by Mohekey, were made by her mother and  aunt, both experienced costumiers.

Mrs Romanes says she has always been interested in the  performing arts and is keen to support young performers.

"There are so many wonderfully talented young performers but  few opportunities for them and we hope that Blue Baths Emerge Entertainment will help give them that step up they need. The company also does performances for corporate functions so there are plenty of chances for them to gain experience in a professional setting and establish a foothold in the industry.''

Mrs Romanes said this year's cast  was extremely talented with the younger performers benefiting from the guidance of  their more experienced counterparts, many of whom had had decades performing and directing.

"This is a really colourful, fun show which I think everyone will enjoy.''

Shows of 1958 will be held Tuesday to Friday at 8pm and matinees on Sundays at 4pm at the Blue Baths until February 15.

People will be able to enjoy food platters and drinks while watching the show being staged in the Lido Lounge, which was once the adult pool at the Blue Baths.

For bookings visit www.bluebaths.co.nz or call (07) 350 2119.