The Court Theatre’s 2022 season has got something for theatre lovers, culture vultures, belly-laughers and audiences of all descriptions. With an incredible bill of exciting, varied shows, we don’t think you’ll need much convincing to make 2022 your year of theatre.

Christchurch’s home of top-quality local and international theatre has got a seriously stacked programme on the cards this year. We’re talking homegrown comedy, popular parodies, bestselling thrillers and empowering musicals. The flagship summer musical, Little Shop of Horrors, tells the story of hapless florist Seymour and his bloodthirsty singing plant. The production runs until January 15 and promises to be larger than life and twice as much fun.

An absolute icon follows from February 19 with Flagons and Foxtrots, a nostalgic Kiwi comedy set in 1960s Ohoka.

Literature lovers and thriller addicts will want to make time in their schedules from April to June. Austen fans will be tickled pink with Penny Ashton’s Sense and Sensibility, on from April 9 to May 7, a quirky and witty adaptation of the classic novel, brilliantly performed by just six talented women. Bestselling page-turner The Girl on the Train is making its way to the stage from May 21, telling the nail-biting story of recently divorced Rachel’s fascination with a couple she observes from her train window. It all seems harmless enough… until the woman, Megan, goes missing.

Winter brings the laughs with Potted Potter beginning on July 2, an international parody sensation that crams all seven Harry Potter books – plus a real-life game of Quidditch – into 70 hilarious minutes. Next to Normal is an award-winning rock musical kicking off in August, in which the audience is given intimate looks into the lives of a seemingly normal suburban family.

Acclaimed comedy music show The Māori Sidesteps takes the stage in September, bringing with them soulful harmonies, song parodies and satirical skits, all performed with their signature mischief and hilarious spin. The kids will be all about Frozen Jr. in October, a magical adventure with Elsa and Anna including all your favourite songs, as well as a few unique surprises.

The year will round off in spectacular style with Beautiful: The Carole King Musical, the compelling and captivating story of Carole King’s music career in 1960s New York, featuring many of her biggest hits, including ‘I Feel the Earth Move’, ‘You’ve Got a Friend’, and ‘(You Make Me Feel Like) A Natural Woman’.

Get in now to start planning your calendar with some incredible entertainment from local and national artists. Tickets for all shows can be booked on The Court Theatre’s website as they become available. Check the website for details on season subscriptions as well – you’ll be guaranteed the best seats in the house!

courttheatre.org.nz