The King's Speech Makes NZ Premiere At The Court Theatre

As Hitler’s threat looms in the background, The King’s Speech delivers more than history—it speaks to the personal battles and the courage it takes to lead when the world is watching. Whether you’re a history buff, a theatre lover, or moved by stories of resilience and redemption, this production’s emotional power resonates deeply.

Imagine facing the most pivotal moment of your life, and you simply can’t speak.

That gripping reality will be brought to life in The King’s Speech, based on the blockbuster, Academy Award-winning film of the same name, and now making its New Zealand stage premiere at The Court Theatre starting next month.

In this inspiring, award-winning drama by David Seidler, audiences will witness the extraordinary journey of King George VI as he struggles to harness his voice against all odds.

At the heart of the production is the remarkable Jason Hodzelmans, who will take on the role of Bertie, Duke of York—and the future King.

Bertie never expected to wear the crown. As the second son of King George V, his elder brother David (later Edward VIII) was destined for the throne. But when David abdicated in 1936 to marry American divorcée Wallis Simpson, Bertie was thrust into the role of monarch. A lifelong stammer, exacerbated by a strict upbringing and the pressures of public expectation, suddenly became not just a personal struggle but a national crisis. With Britain on the brink of war, the country desperately needed a king who could lead with strength and clarity of voice.

Bertie’s trajectory—from a terrified, stuttering child to a sovereign who found his voice in his nation’s darkest hour—will hinge on raw emotional truth. Hodzelmans will bring extraordinary depth to this journey, capturing the façade of calm while a storm rages within. Theatre fans who have admired his compelling work in productions such as Titus and Jacques Brel Is Alive and Living in Paris can look forward to seeing him channel that same magnetic presence into one of theatre’s most emotionally resonant figures.

Bringing this pivotal story to life is an exceptional ensemble of Court Theatre favourites and guest artists:

· Cameron Douglas as Lionel Logue — Bertie’s outspoken Australian speech therapist. A fan favourite at The Court Theatre, Douglas has appeared in Jesus Christ Superstar, A Streetcar Named Desire, Jersey Boys, Once, The Girl on the Train, Flagons and Foxtrots, RENT, and Something Rotten! His trademark mix of warmth and sharp wit makes him the perfect match for the unconventional Logue.

· Amy Straker as Elizabeth, Duchess of York — Bertie’s steadfast wife and future Queen Mother. Straker is an accomplished actor, musician, theatre maker, and performance coach, and co-creator of Cubbin Theatre Company.

· James Kupa as Winston Churchill — the indomitable British statesman. Kupa has previously appeared at The Court Theatre in Murder on the Orient Express and Twelfth Night.

· Cameron Clayton as Cosmo Lang, Archbishop of Canterbury — credits include Something Rotten!, Strictly Ballroom The Musical, and Twelfth Night.

· Olly Humphries as David, Prince of Wales (Edward VIII) — Bertie’s older brother, whose abdication sparks the crisis. Humphries’ credits include Strictly Ballroom The Musical and Something Rotten! at The Court Theatre.

· Matt Hudson as King George V— the stern father of Bertie and David. Hudson’s credits include Showbiz Christchurch’s Come From Away.

· Emma Newborn as Myrtle Logue — Lionel’s loyal wife. Newborn will be familiar to audiences from Shortland Street and the Netflix series One of Us Is Lying.

· Hillary Moulder as Wallis Simpson — the twice-divorced American whose relationship with Edward VIII changed the monarchy forever. Moulder’s credits include Strictly Ballroom and End of the Golden Weather.

At the helm is much-celebrated director Benjamin Kilby-Henson (Strictly Ballroom, Something Rotten!), with design by Daniel Williams, costumes by Pam Jones, lighting by Rachel Marlow, and sound by Matt Short.

“What moves me most about The King’s Speech is that it isn’t just a story about a king — it’s about a man confronting his deepest vulnerability in full view of the world,” says Kilby-Henson.

“Bertie’s struggle with his voice speaks to something profoundly human: the fear of being heard and the courage it takes to keep trying anyway. Jason Hodzelmans is bringing extraordinary sensitivity and strength to the role, and paired with Cameron Douglas as Lionel Logue, their relationship will be the beating heart of this production. Audiences can expect not only history and drama, but a story of resilience and friendship that feels deeply relevant today.”

Special Dates

Opening Night: Saturday, 20 September, 7:30 pm
Post-Show Q&A: Tuesday, 23 September, 6:30 pm — a unique opportunity to hear from the cast and creative team The Court Theatre
Camp Quality special fundraiser: 14 October, 7.30 pm. Every ticket sold will support Camp Quality Christchurch an incredible charity that brings joy, hope, and unforgettable experiences to children living with cancer. Your night at the theatre will help fund life-changing camps and programmes that give these young people the chance to simply be kids — to play, to laugh, to make friends, and to create memories that last a lifetime. We can’t wait to welcome you for a wonderful night of theatre that makes a real difference.

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