Rip Roaring Comedy Epic Directed By Barnie Duncan Sets Sail For Auckland This October

Captain Morrow and the Sands of Time Premieres in New Zealand for the First Time, Directed by Barnie Duncan and Starring Ella Hope-Higginson and Callum Brodie.
2 Actors, 40 Characters, 60 mins.
Prepare for a comedy adventure like no other, as Captain Morrow and the Sands of Time makes its premiere on New Zealand shores at Q Theatre in October. Directed by nationally renowned comedian Barnie Duncan, this production stars critically acclaimed actors Ella Hope-Higginson and Callum Brodie, with live cello and sound effects provided by actor-musician Ali Sewell.
This fast-paced comedy is a bonkers and gloriously absurd showcase of what two actors and one musician can achieve in 60 minutes - without any set, props, or costume changes. Two actors transform into an entire pirate crew, bringing over 40 characters to life as they race against the British Navy on a hunt to find the treasured Sands of Time, battling sea gods, slaying monsters, and outwitting their opponents.
An epic feat of creativity, this hilariously inventive show is crafted for adults, and perfect for comedy festival fans and traditional theatre-goers alike.
From the mind of playwright Ben Behrens, the writing has received the highly distinguished Edinburgh Fringe ‘Bobby Award’, and been described as “A comedy romp that leaves you wanting more!” by The British Theatre Guide.
Brought to Aotearoa New Zealand by Figment Productions, Captain Morrow runs from 21 October to November 8, 2025, at Q Theatre, 305 Queen Street, Auckland. Tickets are on sale now.
“Comic genius, a raucous barrel of laughs” - Bristol Theatre Review
“A raucous adventure filled with more laughs than seems possible in a mere hour” - British Theatre Guide
“Glorious” - Broadway Baby
“Astounding” - Edinburgh Fringe Review
“Spectacular” - Three Weeks
"A rip-roaring comedy epic" - The Scotsman
Show Details:
What: Captain Morrow and the Sands of Time
When: 21 October - 8 November 2025
Where: Q Theatre, 305 Queen Street, Auckland
Tickets: Available at https://www.qtheatre.co.nz/shows/captain-morrow-and-sands-time
Running time: 60 minutes, no interval
Suitable for: Adults and older kids of 11+
Opening Night has a special on tickets - Any ticket can by purchased for $25
Cast and Creatives:
Ella Hope-Higginson credits include: Timebandits, The Power of the Dog, Rings of Power, My Life is Murder, Heartthrobs, Bullrush.
Callum Brodie credits include: Waiting for Waiting for Godot, West-Side Story, Hamlet, Romeo and Juliet, Midsummer Night’s Dream, Downton Abbey, The Maid’s Tragedy
Ali Sewell credits include: The Power of the Dog, One of Us is Lying, Pearl, Shortland Street, Romeo and Juliet - Pop-up Globe, Once the Musical
Barnie Duncan credits include: Different Party, Wellington Paranormal, The Educators, Shortland Street, Madam, Timebandits
NZ Psychological Society: Remembering The Past Guides Our Future
New Zealand Olympic Committee: Motherhood In Focus For Wāhine Toa Graduates Ahead Of Mother's Day
Early Childhood New Zealand: Budget 2026 Must Protect The Future Of Quality Early Childhood Education
Creative New Zealand: Aotearoa Manu Take World Art Stage As 61st Venice Biennale Opens
Country Music Honours: 2026 Country Music Honours Finalists Announced
Mana Mokopuna: Children’s Commissioner Welcomes New Youth Mental Health And Suicide Prevention Services In Te Tai Tokerau