Media release
21 November 2012

War Horse exclusive season another win for Auckland

An exclusive New Zealand season of the award-winning stage show War Horse has been announced for next year – reinforcing Auckland’s reputation as a destination for world-class entertainment.

The theatre version of the best-selling book has set box offices alight in the world’s most famous theatre districts – New York’s Broadway and the West End in London. International promoter Global Creatures today announced a four-week season of War Horse at the Aotea Centre’s ASB Theatre starting on 20 August 2013.

Based on recent seasons, it is expected that 35 per cent of audiences will hail from outside the Auckland region. Fans from around the country are expected to deliver an estimated 27,000 extra visitor nights to the Auckland economy, to see the award-winning show and its famed puppet horses – contributing to Auckland as a destination for regional tourism.

Council organisations Auckland Tourism, Events and Economic Development (ATEED) and Regional Facilities Auckland’s (RFA) performing arts organisation THE EDGE collaborated to attract the show to the city.

Jennah Wootten, ATEED Acting General Manager Destination, says: “Today’s War Horse announcement shows Auckland is a go-to destination for hit international stage productions which thrill audiences and add to the city’s vibrant cultural sector.”

“ATEED will support the domestic marketing campaign with Global Creatures which will showcase War Horse and Auckland’s other tourist highlights, and help bring visitors from around the country and maximise the show’s expected significant contribution to Auckland’s economic growth,” says Jennah Wootten.

Melanie Smith, Deputy Director of THE EDGE says: "War Horse is an extraordinary production and we are delighted to secure its only New Zealand season for the Aotea Centre's ASB Theatre, which will soon be undergoing the 2nd phase of a refurbishment to be completed early next year."

"We are working to bring two large-scale international productions to our venues each year, and War Horse, with its raft of awards, including six Tony Awards® in 2011 will be a huge treat for theatre fans."

Ends

© Scoop Media

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