A new musical in development
A satirical, funny and unsettling new musical reflecting global climate inaction, political corruption and decadence - and that’s just in one family.
The development season for this brand new musical theatre production featuring Jackie Clarke & Phil Peleton opened at the Hannah Playhouse, Wellington in November 2023.
Created by and with original songs by Marshmellow, written by Mike Hudson, directed by Margaret-Mary Hollins and creative produced by Stephen Blackburn.
We are grateful for the support of CNZ and the Hannah Playhouse to help the show in this development season.
Background
Feeling disheartened by the lack of action on climate change and the inertia in global politics, Marshall Smith decided to channel his frustration into songwriting. Soon he reached out to Mike Hudson and Margaret-Mary Hollins to jam out his musical ideas and work towards the realisation of some kind of live theatrical performance.
Initially conceived as a cabaret-style show, “House on Fire” has transformed into a musical theatre production. The music, lyrics and dialogue have undergone a dynamic evolution, resulting in a distinct and evolving work with a unique identity.
As we begin our journey at the Hannah Playhouse with our development season of ‘House on Fire’, we acknowledge the creative individuals who have supported us to get to where we are today.
Huge thanks for the passion and talent of Georgia Duder-Wood who joined the early phase of development.
Much gratitude goes to Creative New Zealand, and Auckland Live who supported an early five-day development workshop.
This also enabled the team to work with the talented and creative generosity of Jennifer Ward-Leyland Te Atamira, whose expertise helped enormously.
Furthermore, the team were grateful to work with the incredible talents of Hannah Lynch, Andy Grainger, Ro Bright, Eve Gordon and Producer Sharu Delikan, supported by Creative Designers Jane Hakaraia, Elizabeth Whiting and Jessie McCall.
From there, Creative Producer Stephen Blackburn, jumped on board. Big thanks to The Becroft Foundation and NZ Playmarket’s workshop readings and huge thanks to artists Jackie Clarke, Andrew Laing, Hannah Lynch, Tatum Warren-Ngata, Aleni Tufuga and Ro Bright prodding and questioning the creative process along the way.
Thanks also to Associate Professor (Adjunct) Bob Frame from Gateway Antarctica, University of Canterbury, New Zealand, for his time and comment on the work as it evolves.
The creative team are super excited by this creative opportunity to explore and present at the Hannah Playhouse, Wellington, November 11 - 26 2023. The unique opportunity to be in conversation with the audience over this development season, will help inform and shape the direction of the show into a rehearsal ready phase, toward a premiere season.
Tēnā rawa atu koe! A huge thanks to everyone who has been a part of the journey!