In a special, one-night-only event, we'd be thrilled if you could join us for a Court Theatre fundraiser, in partnership with the Friends of The Court Theatre, celebrating Mark's long-standing connection with our cherished theatre. Please join us for this exclusive occasion, hosted by Ross Gumbley, where your presence not only honours Mark's legacy but also supports The Court Theatre, for our final months in The Shed.
With an illustrious career spanning nearly four decades, Mark Hadlow is a household name in New Zealand's entertainment industry. As an actor, director, and voice artist, he has left an indelible mark, in Aotearoa and internationally, on both stage and screen, performing in or directing over 150 plays, alongside a multitude of memorable and notorious roles in film, television, and commercials.
You will undoubtedly recognize Mark from his iconic cinematic roles, such as Dwarf Dori in The Hobbit Trilogy, Heidi the Hippo and Robert the Hedgehog in Meet the Feebles, and Harry in King Kong. More recently, he captivated audiences as Stigwood in Peter Jackson's Mortal Engines.
Mark Hadlow's career has been a tapestry of iconic performances, including memorable collaborations with New Zealand legends. He shared the screen with the incomparable Billy T James in The Billy T James Show, and we can’t not mention Hadlow enchanting audiences as Toad in The Court Theatre's original production of The Wind in the Willows (among many others), bringing this beloved character to life in a way only he could.
Join us at The Court Theatre for a special ONE NIGHT ONLY fundraising event filled with tales, stories, adventure, and a song or two, as Mark Hadlow and friends take us on a nostalgic journey through his distinguished career. This is a unique opportunity to celebrate the remarkable talent of one of New Zealand's most beloved entertainers and raise vital funds for The Court Theatre and the Friends of The Court Theatre, where Mark has entertained thousands of Cantabrians for over 40 years.
Doors open from 5:15pm for drinks and canapés, and the evening will include a raffle and a silent auction. There will be an exclusive opportunity post show to meet Mark, take a photo, and raise a glass of bubbles, thanks to the Friends of the Court Theatre.
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About The Court Theatre
Since 1971, The Court Theatre has been a beacon of live theatre excellence, drawing in audiences from Waitaha Canterbury and across Aotearoa New Zealand. Our commitment to delivering exceptional performances has earned us a reputation for quality and diversity that resonates throughout the country. As we continue to grow and evolve, this commitment remains at the core of everything we do.
As the largest and longest running professional theatre company in Aotearoa, each year, we dazzle our audience with a rich tapestry of international and homegrown shows, including a flagship stellar summer musical. Our stage hosts a diverse array of genres, from timeless classics to uproarious comedies, gritty dramas, and plays from Māori, Pasifika, and other cultures within our community. The Court Jesters keep the laughter rolling with Scared Scriptless, Australasia’s longest-running improvised comedy show - every week.
The Court Theatre is a one-stop creative production house – we build everything from the ground up on-site, ensuring that every detail of our shows is exactly what is required. From the initial design to the final curtain call, everything is crafted inside the theatre. Our sets, props, and costumes are meticulously created by skilled artisans, and our team works tirelessly behind the scenes to ensure every detail is perfect. Talented artists and performers from across the country converge here to bring stories to life and transport audiences to new realms of imagination. We take pride in creating and showcasing theatre that reflects Aotearoa, crafted by some of our nation's most gifted individuals.
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About the Friends of The Court Theatre
The Court Theatre is deeply enriched by the unwavering support of over 2,000 devoted Friends, many of whom have been loyal supporters for decades. The Friends of The Court Theatre are not just patrons; they are passionate advocates for the arts, dedicated to upholding the mission of The Court Theatre. Through their generous funding and donations, the Friends play a pivotal role in supporting The Court Theatre's education department, community outreach programs, and of course the production of captivating performances that ensures the Christchurch arts scene is firmly on the map in Aotearoa.
One of the most impactful ways in which the Friends contribute is through their volunteer ushers. These dedicated individuals generously give their time to usher over 400 productions a year, ensuring that each guest's experience at The Court Theatre is welcoming and enjoyable. This volunteer effort also translates into significant savings for The Court Theatre, amounting to over $200,000 in staffing costs annually. The selfless dedication of the Friends and their contributions to The Court Theatre's success exemplify the power of community support and the profound impact it can have on the vibrant arts scene in Canterbury.