Lyttelton Arts Festival
See you again in 2023! Thank you for your support.
Lyttelton Arts Festival is our new midwinter festival celebrating all things Lyttelton. Music, theatre, buskers, comedy, workshops, movies for families, and something for everyone. And we’ve kept the prices low to tempt you out.
Make a day of it and enjoy your time in Lyttelton by visiting some of our world-class hospitality venues before, or after taking in a show.
Download our 2022 Printable Program: Or scroll on for a chronological list of all the fun that was had.
All Events
Friday 8th July. 5:30pm at LAF. DANCE SHOW
Next Case Please
Fleur de Thier presents .. The Next Case Please
Professional dancers Julia McKerrow and Aleasha Seaward perform with Rebound Dance Co in this quirky film and live dance fusion. 45minutes
Friday 8th July. 8:30pm at LAF. LIVE MUSIC
Anthea de Milo Album 'Sneak-Peak' Show
Anthea de Milo, formerly of country band Runaround Sue and doom metal band Saint Satori has gone back to her soul roots.
With her full band of angels on acid Adam Hattaway, Elmore Jones, Micheal Kime and AJ park they will raise the roof for another spell binding night of Anthea calling in the metaphysical magic with the power of her voice.
This is a night not be missed, so catch this soul train while you can! Anthea performs songs from her upcoming album 'the Preacher's Daughter'.
Friday 8th July, 8:30pm at The Loons Club. LIVE MUSIC
Hollie Smith Coming in from the Dark Tour
After almost a year of trying to get this show on the road due to massive COVID hurdles we are finally touring Hollies number one album Coming in From The Dark LIVE! We cannot wait for you to see the show.
At THE LOONS CLUB venue.
Saturday 9th July, 11:00am at LAF. DANCE
Movement Workshop with Fleur de Thier
Well known NZ choreographer Fleur de Thier will guide a fun and inspiring exploration of movement for adults. No dance experience needed.
Be part of a energising and fun warmup, learn some material, and be creative as you experiment with ideas you'll be guided through. You might just walk away being more limber with new shapes to cut on the dancefloor. Adult Workshop 75 mins.
Please note the start time is 11am (not 11.30am as in some print media).
Saturday 9th July, 11:00am at Lyttelton Rec Centre. CIRCUS WORKSHOP
Circus Arts Workshop with Danny Lee Syme
Come and have fun in this all- ages circus arts workshop with Danny Lee Syme from Cirko Kali.
The class begins with a warm up moving through the body to limber you up. You'll then explore floor acrobatics and basic tumbling, object manipulation such as hoops and juggling equipment, aerials, clown, mime, stretching and flexibility. There will be an aerial rig on site for the session for you to try your hand at. A cool down and stretch will conclude the session which runs for a full two hours. Come as a family unit, or just send the kids, this class is for all ages. 120min workshop.
At Lyttelton Recreation Centre, Winchester St, Lyttelton.
Saturday 9th July, 11:15am at Albion Square COMEDY CIRCUS
Sport Suzie Busking Show
Sport Suzie is New Zealand's Crazy Aerobics, Sport and Circus fanatic. Get out your old retro Adidas shorts, Lycra tights, and sweat bands and join Suzie as she fills the streets with her comedy workout show.
Albion Square. KOHA (weather dependent).
Saturday 9th July, 12:00pm. Hula Hooping Workshop at Albion Square.
Toni Smith Hooping Extravaganza (at Albion Square)
Get your hoop on! Whether you are young or old, big or small, Toni Smith will inspire you to get hula hooping and loving it, through her engaging performance and hands-on teaching. Hoops provided.
Toni Smith is an expert international circus hula hooper and physical comedian from New Zealand with over 17 years experience in Circus Arts. At Albion Square. FREE (weather dependent).
Saturday 9th July, 1:00pm at LAF. FAMILY SHOW
Mr Fungus - NZ's loudest mime! CANCELLED
Apologies but due to unforseen circumstances this show has been cancelled. Apologies.
World famous in Wellington, the iconic MR FUNGUS presents his upbeat physical comedy show, sure to delight kids aged 4 to 94... Many people will recognize MR FUNGUS, having seen him at schools, orientation gigs and any number of festivals and events around NZ over the past three decades. Some will recall his anarchic street performances at the Christchurch Arts Centre in the 1990s and 2000s, where he brought the European art of mimicry to a high level.
MR FUNGUS is the brainchild of Wellington actor and comedian Fergus Aitken.
Saturday 9th July, 1:00pm. Art Carving WORKSHOP @ Whakaraupō Carving Centre
Introduction to the Customary Practices and Toi Principles of Whakairo
In this free workshop Kaiako/Tutor Damian Mackies presentation will provide korero about the customary practices used by carvers and the Toi Principles used in the creation of whakairo.
Workshop held at Whakaraupō Carving Centre, 30 Godley Quay, Lyttelton. Free, but bookings are essential.
Saturday 9th July, 2:00pm at Lyttelton Primary School Staffroom. MASK PUPPETRY WORKSHOP
Puppetry and Mask WORKSHOP
Try your Hand, with Juliet Neill of 'Thumbs Up Puppetry'.
Puppetry and mask are as ancient as storytelling, and have been used in most cultures as mediums for storytelling, allegory, and representing myths and gods. Puppets are also widely used for satirical and political and subversive purposes. As such, puppetry is certainly not just for children and Juliet Neill, puppeteer, would like to share the power of puppetry and mask with you.
This 90 minute workshop led by puppeteer Juliet Neill will explain simple mask and hand puppet making. Juliet will bring along her collection which she has created and performed with over the years for people to learn to manipulate them, find characters and perform a simple show.
Saturday 9th July, 3:00pm at LAF . FAMILY SHOW
Superhero Circus - Rollicking Entertainment
Is it a bird? Is it a plane? No! It's Super Duper Girl and The Ladderman, here to save the day with stupendous stunts, amazing escapes and arbitrary alliteration!
Rollicking Entertainment Ltd, founded by David Ladderman and Lizzie Tollemache present this family show packed with superhero themed circus and magic for all ages.
Dress up as your own superhero character and be a part of the fun, at the LAF Theatre.
Saturday 9th July, 8:00pm at LAF. COMEDY VARIETY CABARET
LAF Variety Show
Lyttelton Arts Festival's inaugural Variety Show will see an awesome array of talent share the stage with funny guy and MC Shay Horay.
Extroadinary acrobats, fancy fire eating and adult comedy will entertain and delight. We've selected the best for this comeback cabaret of familar favorites with new material.
Shay Horay, Louise Kerr, Toni Smith, Miss Candy Applebottom, Lizzie Tollemache, David Ladderman & Danny Lee Syme will each bring their own unique skills to keep you on the edge of your seat through the two hour show.
Saturday 9th July, 8:30pm at Lyttelton Coffee Co. LIVE MUSIC
Buda (with Anita Clark) plays Buda (at Lyttelton Coffee Co)
“Since the release of his 2022 Taite Music Prize nominated album “Buda” in October last year, Luke Buda (Te Whanganui-a-Tara) has been desperate to play some sweet local music for the local crew down at the local bar!
Luke Buda and Ōtautahi Violinist Anita Clark (Motte) head out on an intimate 4 date tour to play the songs from “Buda”, as well as some old The Phoenix Foundation favourites and… if the mood is right: a Roxette cover.
Saturday 9th July, 8:30pm at The Loons LIVE MUSIC
Hans Pucket, Minisnap and T.G. Shand
Pōneke / Tāmaki Makaurau pop-rock quartet Hans Pucket announce their 'Confidently Test Out New Material’ tour for the f̶o̶u̶r̶t̶h̶ fifth time.
These shows promise all the wonders of Hans Pucket’s four-piece lineup. Callum Passells will bring his saxophone and keyboard wizardry to the group. There will be music from their upcoming album; there will be cool new merch; there will be a moment in the set where Jono Nott plays a guitar solo and everyone claps; Oli will forget some lyrics and try to ask Callum Devlin what they are mid-song.
Sunday 10th July, 11:00am at LAF. FAMILY CINEMA
Family Movie - SHREK - thanks to Dead Video
Dead Video and ‘Heisenburger’ present this family favourite, Shrek, on our own big screen.
It'll be a winter morning, but come into our warm theatre, set with limited lounges, crash mats and bean bags, or bring your own seating for this indoor winter picnic. The usual seating will also be available of course.
Dress-up as your favourite fairytale character, or just wear your onesie to feel right at home!
Heisenburger will be on site for a great interval feed.
Sunday 10th July, 3:00pm at LAF. SPOKEN WORD POETRY DISCUSSION
Eight Great Poems: with Joe Bennett
Joe introduces eight of his favourite poems, from Shakespeare to Larkin, purely for the pleasure.
Joe Bennett is an award-winning Lyttelton-based writer, columnist and playwright.
Sunday 10th July, 6:00pm. at LAF TALKSHOW COMEDY
Palaver. with Gary McCormick
PALAVER /pe ‘la:ve/
VERB to talk unproductively and at length.
NOUN a show where Christchurch legend Shay Horay interviews international entertainment legends.
Our special guest at Palaver is one of the pioneers of New Zealand entertainment. A poet, television & radio host, story teller, activist and funny man that pulls no punches. Gary McCormick has been household name for 40 years. Grab a ticket and join us talking about the adventures Gary has had over the years and the amazing colleagues he has had the pleasure of working with. This will be another unforgettable night at LAF.
Sunday 10th July, 8:00pm at LAF. THEATRE
Ma Te Wa : A moment in Time
Tom Trevella, Popi Newbery & Ben Brown feature in this exciting new original show.
Hinemauri, Tom and Tāne TK have never met. They each receive a mysterious invitation that promises the WORLD in a way they find impossible to refuse.
Sunday 10th July, from 8:00pm at SUPER Restaurant. DJ PARTY
SUPER Wrap Party
Theatre
Music
Friday 8th July. 8:30pm at LAF. LIVE MUSIC
Anthea de Milo Album 'Sneak-Peak' Show
Anthea de Milo, formerly of country band Runaround Sue and doom metal band Saint Satori has gone back to her soul roots.
With her full band of angels on acid Adam Hattaway, Elmore Jones, Micheal Kime and AJ park they will raise the roof for another spell binding night of Anthea calling in the metaphysical magic with the power of her voice.
This is a night not be missed, so catch this soul train while you can! Anthea performs songs from her upcoming album 'the Preacher's Daughter'.
Friday 8th July, 8:30pm at The Loons Club. LIVE MUSIC
Hollie Smith Coming in from the Dark Tour
After almost a year of trying to get this show on the road due to massive COVID hurdles we are finally touring Hollies number one album Coming in From The Dark LIVE! We cannot wait for you to see the show.
At THE LOONS CLUB venue.
Saturday 9th July, 8:30pm at Lyttelton Coffee Co. LIVE MUSIC
Buda (with Anita Clark) plays Buda (at Lyttelton Coffee Co)
“Since the release of his 2022 Taite Music Prize nominated album “Buda” in October last year, Luke Buda (Te Whanganui-a-Tara) has been desperate to play some sweet local music for the local crew down at the local bar!
Luke Buda and Ōtautahi Violinist Anita Clark (Motte) head out on an intimate 4 date tour to play the songs from “Buda”, as well as some old The Phoenix Foundation favourites and… if the mood is right: a Roxette cover.
Saturday 9th July, 8:30pm at The Loons LIVE MUSIC
Hans Pucket, Minisnap and T.G. Shand
Pōneke / Tāmaki Makaurau pop-rock quartet Hans Pucket announce their 'Confidently Test Out New Material’ tour for the f̶o̶u̶r̶t̶h̶ fifth time.
These shows promise all the wonders of Hans Pucket’s four-piece lineup. Callum Passells will bring his saxophone and keyboard wizardry to the group. There will be music from their upcoming album; there will be cool new merch; there will be a moment in the set where Jono Nott plays a guitar solo and everyone claps; Oli will forget some lyrics and try to ask Callum Devlin what they are mid-song.
Sunday 10th July, from 8:00pm at SUPER Restaurant. DJ PARTY
SUPER Wrap Party
Dance
Friday 8th July. 5:30pm at LAF. DANCE SHOW
Next Case Please
Fleur de Thier presents .. The Next Case Please
Professional dancers Julia McKerrow and Aleasha Seaward perform with Rebound Dance Co in this quirky film and live dance fusion. 45minutes
Saturday 9th July, 11:00am at LAF. DANCE MOVEMENT
Movement Workshop
Well known NZ choreographer Fleur de Thier will guide a fun and inspiring exploration of movement for adults. No previous experience needed.
Be part of an energising warmup, learn some material, and be creative as you experiment with ideas. Adult Workshop 75 mins.
Please note the start time is 11am (not 11.30am as in some print media).
Sunday 10th July, from 8:00pm at SUPER Restaurant. DJ PARTY
SUPER Wrap Party
Workshops
Family Fun
Saturday 9th July, 11:00am at Lyttelton Rec Centre. CIRCUS WORKSHOP
Circus Arts Workshop with Danny Lee Syme
Come and have fun in this all- ages circus arts workshop with Danny Lee Syme from Cirko Kali.
The class begins with a warm up moving through the body to limber you up. You'll then explore floor acrobatics and basic tumbling, object manipulation such as hoops and juggling equipment, aerials, clown, mime, stretching and flexibility. There will be an aerial rig on site for the session for you to try your hand at. A cool down and stretch will conclude the session which runs for a full two hours. Come as a family unit, or just send the kids, this class is for all ages. 120min workshop.
At Lyttelton Recreation Centre, Winchester St, Lyttelton.
Saturday 9th July, 11:15am at Albion Square COMEDY CIRCUS
Sport Suzie Busking Show
Sport Suzie is New Zealand's Crazy Aerobics, Sport and Circus fanatic.
Get out your old retro Adidas shorts, Lycra tights, and sweat bands and join Suzie as she fills the streets with her comedy workout show.
At Albion Square. KOHA (weather dependent).
Saturday 9th July, 12:00pm. Hula Hooping Workshop at Albion Square.
Toni Smith Hooping Extravaganza (at Albion Square)
Get your hoop on! Whether you are young or old, big or small, Toni Smith will inspire you to get hula hooping and loving it, through her engaging performance and hands-on teaching. Hoops provided.
Toni Smith is an expert international circus hula hooper and physical comedian from New Zealand with over 17 years experience in Circus Arts. At Albion Square. FREE (weather dependent).
Saturday 9th July, 1:00pm at LAF. FAMILY SHOW
Mr Fungus - NZ's loudest mime! CANCELLED
Apologies but due to unforseen circumstances this show has been cancelled. Apologies.
World famous in Wellington, the iconic MR FUNGUS presents his upbeat physical comedy show, sure to delight kids aged 4 to 94... Many people will recognize MR FUNGUS, having seen him at schools, orientation gigs and any number of festivals and events around NZ over the past three decades. Some will recall his anarchic street performances at the Christchurch Arts Centre in the 1990s and 2000s, where he brought the European art of mimicry to a high level.
MR FUNGUS is the brainchild of Wellington actor and comedian Fergus Aitken.
Saturday 9th July, 3:00pm at LAF . FAMILY SHOW
Superhero Circus - Rollicking Entertainment
Is it a bird? Is it a plane? No! It's Super Duper Girl and The Ladderman, here to save the day with stupendous stunts, amazing escapes and arbitrary alliteration!
Rollicking Entertainment Ltd, founded by David Ladderman and Lizzie Tollemache present this family show packed with superhero themed circus and magic for all ages.
Dress up as your favorite, or even your own superhero character to be a part of the fun at the LAF Theatre.
Sunday 10th July, 11:00am at LAF. FAMILY CINEMA
Family Movie - SHREK - thanks to Dead Video
Dead Video and ‘Heisenburger’ present this family favourite, Shrek, on our own big screen.
It'll be a winter morning, but come into our warm theatre, set with limited lounges, crash mats and bean bags, or bring your own seating for this indoor winter picnic. The usual seating will also be available of course.
Dress-up as your favourite fairytale character, or just wear your onesie to feel right at home!
Heisenburger will be on site for a great interval feed.
Fantastic Food and Beverages
Come and enjoy the hospitality Lyttelton Has to offer by checking out some of our world-class venues:
- Civil & Naval Great cocktails, an old world setting & tasty bar food.
- Spooky Boogie A selection of local artists work & great coffee.
- Lyttelton Coffee Company Breakfast or lunch and enjoy the large wall for their selection of artworks.
- Super Artful Japanese Kiwi fusion for the eyes and belly.
- Sherpa Kai & Commoners Bar Authentic Nepalese food from an International chef.
- Everest Indian Wonderful Indian food with an extensive menu.
- Coffee Culture For a quick coffee and a good range of food.
- Forty Two Container bar known for it’s fishtank and great snacks.
- Wunderbar Quirky art bar with an outstanding view.
- The Loons A unique rebuild of a heritage building
- Eruption Craft beers brewed on site, meals and weekend music.
- The Lyttelton Arms Provides a great pub meal with options for kids.
- NomNom Kitchen Creative Thai fusion with a warm ambience.
- Bomba Genuine Italian pizza and great gelato.
- Arbour Woodfired Pizza Extensive kiwi pizza options and a bar.
- London Street Fish & Chips & Chinese The local favourite for the classic Take Away
- Shroom Room Delicious wholesome vegetarian & vegan fare.
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Our hero, the Kahukura, Red Cloak or Red admiral butterfly illustration is from the 1970 1c postage stamp designed by Enid Hunter and reproduced with the permission of NZ Post.