Prima Facie, 2023 Olivier Award winner for Best New Play, debuts in Tāmaki Makaurau Auckland
Image by Amanda Billing
Published: Wednesday 3 May, 9am
Auckland Live and Plumb Theatre are proud to present the New Zealand premiere of the 2023 Olivier award winning and critically acclaimed one-woman play Prima Facie, from Wednesday 21 June – Sunday 2 July at the Herald Theatre, Aotea Centre.
Written by Australian playwright and former human rights lawyer, Suzie Miller, Prima Facie is an examination of sexual assault through a legal lens. The play serves as an important commentary on the justice system's handling of sexual assault cases.
The play has received a suite of stunning reviews during its sold-out run in UK’s West End, and the Auckland season will coincide with Prima Facie season debut on Broadway. ‘Unmissable viewing’ - London Theatre. 'A play that roars... urgent and powerful' – The Guardian. ‘Extraordinary and Visceral’ - The Age. ‘Powerful…the effect is devastating’ - Sydney Morning Herald.
The New Zealand led season of Prima Facie is directed by actor and Plumb Theatre Director Paul Gittins (Blonde Poison, Snowflake, Faith Healer) who will work alongside intimacy coordinator Miriama McDowell to bring this gripping production to the stage.
Aotearoa’s own Acushla-Tara Kupe steps into the formidable role of Tessa Ensler, a criminal defence barrister from a working-class background who views her clients and their sexual assault survivors with the same professional detachment.
'My attraction to Prima Facie was as a brilliantly written, powerful piece of drama; I love that feeling when you go to a theatre show and walk out still carrying the play with you. The added incentive is that the play will contribute to raising awareness of the very important issue at its heart,’ – Director, Paul Gittins.
Acushla-Tara Kupe features as the lead role in the upcoming drama mystery series The Gone for RTÉ and TVNZ. Her television credits include performances in Under the Vines, Mr Corman and The War at Home, and theatre highlights include the titular role in Emilia with the Pop-Up Globe.
The Auckland production will showcase design from award-winning set designer John Parker, lighting by gifted lighting designer Jane Hakaraia, musical composition from leading composer Eve de Castro-Robinson, and costume design from one of New Zealand’s most prominent costume designers, Elizabeth Whiting.
Tickets will go on public sale 9am Thursday 4 May, 2023.
Plumb Theatre and Auckland Live present
Prima Facie
By Suzie Miller
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Wed 21 June – Sun 2 July 2023
(NZ Sign Language Interpreted Performance, Wed 28 June)
(Schools only shows – Tue 27 Jun and Tue 4 July )
Herald Theatre, Aotea Centre
For bookings or more information click here.
Written by Suzie Miller
Directed by Paul Gittins
Performed by Acushla-Tara Kupe
Designed by John Parker
Lighting by Jane Hakaraia
Composed by Eve de Castro-Robinson
Costumes by Elizabeth Whiting
Trigger Warning: This play refers to sexual violence against women. Recommended for audiences 16 and above, parent or guardian guidance advised.
