NAT has an ever-changing line up; that’s the beauty of having an open-access theatre venue! See what your favourite performers are up to and discover new artists, by checking here regularly. NAT doesn’t pre-programme seasons, so this is where you can see what we have going on. We have a bar open from 1 hourish before the show, and you are welcome to take your drinks into the theatre (there’s no BYO!)

Stitched: A new play by Ellie Swann
Thurs 17 Sept-Sat 26 Sept
Presales $20/$30
Tickets: HERE
Desdemona and Emilia are best friends. Unfortunately, their husbands are dicks.
A new play by Ellie Swann, featuring Laniet and Ellie Swann.
Presented by Moose of Fire Productions.
Take an inside look into the private friendships of women. When left alone, what do they talk about – what do they *do* all day? Best known as tragic casualties of male ambition and hubris (to describe it kindly), Desi and Emi are also people in their own rights, and their stories are waiting to be told.
Sharing their hobbies, humour, and hopes, these two women are dying to tell you that they are whole human beings, despite being defined thus far solely by their husbands.
If men’s motives and intentions have been analysed for the past 400 years, we really don’t need to bother with their names, thanks.
Thurs 17th 730pm; Sat 19th 730pm; Sun 20th 2pm
Thurs 24th 730pm; Fri 25th 730pm; Sat 26th 730pm
Presales $25/$30 +bf
Doorsales $30/$35

James Nokise: One Night Rant 2026
Sat, 24 Oct, 730pm
Bar and box office open from 7pm
Tickets: $30+bf HERE
Limited doorsales: $35
★★★★★ “There can be few more accomplished raconteurs at the Fringe than James Nokise.”
— The Wee Review
★★★★★ “Nokise is a joy to have onstage.”
— The Scotsman
There’s three things you can count on this election year; Ministerial soundbites that age like milk, policy walk-backs hours after announcements, and James Nokise having hot comedic takes on the chaotic campaigns around the country.
One Night Rant returns in 2026 with a new hour of frenetic furious funny aimed at politicians across the spectrum. No Party or policy is safe as Nokise lets loose on the political powers that be.
Book early as this is the one show where the news cycle does half the research for a night of comedy, catharsis, and fist shaking, boot stomping fun.
“If you’ve long suspected Parliament might be a comedy of errors full of farcical characters, this show will bring receipts.” — James Nokise
You’ve seen him on TVNZ, heard him on RNZ, and read him on Stuff. Now he’s bringing the election to your town — for one night only.
Topp Prize winner 2024 · Fred Award 2019 · The Last Voyage of the Rainbow Warrior — Best Documentary, 2025 NZ Radio & Podcast Awards
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And a few unsolicited character references:
“The cheapest hour of therapy you’ll get this election year.”
— A Ministerial Press Secretary, speaking anonymously (obviously)
“The funniest hour you’ll spend this election season.”
— Every Political Reporter in the Press Gallery, off the record
“He’s coming all this way to vent about politicians. Least you can do is turn up.”
— A Local Resident, speaking voluntarily (allegedly)
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THE DETAILS
New Athenaeum Theatre, Dunedin
Sat 24 October, 7.30pm. Doors 7pm.
Approximately 60 minutes, no interval.Adult themes, coarse language, and political satire throughout. Recommended 16+.
Full tour dates and more info at jamesnokise.com

Femme Vol 17 – Halloween Edition
Sat, 31 Oct, 7pm & 930pm
Tickets: $30/$37/$57+bf HERE
Bar open from 6pm
Join us for the 17th volume of Femme, Halloween edition with not one but TWO shows! 7pm & 9:30pm showcasing an amazing lineup of local and travelling burlesque performers!
This is a show you won’t want to miss, and it’s bound to sell out fast! So gather your gals, guys, gays, and theys, and secure your tickets for the hottest show in town ![]()
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Prizes for best dressed!
R18 (contains nudity, strong language, adult and horror themes)
Wheel chair accessible![]()
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OCTAGON COLLECTIVE Poetry Night – 2nd Wednesday of the month, 7pm

FREE poetry readings – special guest artists, and open mic.
MONTHLY, WEDNESDAYS - 11/2, 11/3, 8/4, 13/5, 10/6, 8/7, 12/8, 9/9, 7/10, 11/11, 9/12
7PM
Bar from 6pm – no BYO

Femme: Experience a vibrant showcase of burlesque and cabaret artistry, confidence, empowerment and creativity that honors femininity in all its forms.
8PM
Bar from 7pm – no BYO

Improsaurus: Season 2 The Spooky Season coming soon! 28/8, 18/9, 2/10, 16/10, 30/10
8PM
Bar from 7pm – no BYO
