It’s a case of whodunit on the high seas in Thomas Sainsbury (SuperCity) and Chris Parker’s (SNORT) latest play, Hauraki Horror.
The play delves in to the world of two hapless celebrity scandal reporters who are invited on a cruise by notorious playboy entrepreneur, Dick Rancid. Things however quickly take a turn for the worst when there is a death on board.
The Weekly caught up with Tom Sainsbury to find out more.
What inspired Hauraki Horror?
We had a few restrictions – it had to be Christmas themed and it had to have some hilarious monologues for a variety of actors. We quickly decided on a murder mystery and were hugely inspired by the TV show Rosemary and Thyme. It’s just such a silly, enjoyable, pantomimey genre and lends itself well to a drunken night out at the theatre.
We also wanted to set the play in Auckland, so discussed what made Auckland ‘Auckland’ and decided that it’s all about the ocean and boating. Thus the idea of a murder mystery on a Christmas cruise in the Hauraki Harbour was born.
What was it like working with Chris again?
Ut’s always an utter joy working with Chris. We’ve done a lot of comedy together now and we totally get each others humour. We plotted the play out together and then divvied up the monologues between us to write individually. We then put it all together and read it aloud, having many laughs together.
What can the audience expect?
A hilarious, fun, thrilling, fast-paced 90-minute show about New Zealand celebrities with secrets they all want to keep hidden. It’s like the Sunday gossip pages meets Midsummer Murders.
You have a star-studded rotating cast lined up, who have been some of your favourites to work with?
Jennifer Ward-Lealand was an absolute treasure. She’s playing Kiri Te Kanawa and has done a lot of wonderful research on her. She’s so game to do anything. It’s awesome!
Mike Edward, who is playing Poseidon, has also been such a treat. I can’t wait for people to see his crazy ideas for the part.
Hauraki Horror is based around the world of celebs and the paparazzi. Which celebs are you secretly obsessed with?
So many. French and Saunders, Meryl Streep, Sally Ridge, Oliver Driver, Jennifer Lawrence, Seth Rogan, and Suzanne Paul.
What is up next for you ?
Stand up at the Comedy Festival. Also writing screenplay after screenplay and trying to get them made. And travel!
