Come to Circa Theatre and break a leg!  That’s the invitation extended to Wellingtonians by Circa Theatre and Wellington Waterfront Ltd to join in the drama at Circulate, Circa’s annual open day on 12 February from 11am to 3pm.

“Circulate is an opportunity for the curious to find out about how a theatre operates backstage, watch a play in rehearsal and enjoy some excellent theatre free of charge,” says Neville Carson Co-ordinator of Circa’s Council.

“You don’t have to be high brow or a theatre buff to enjoy the day – the events and attractions planned in the theatre and on the surrounding waterfront offer fun, laughs and excitement for everyone,” Neville adds.

Guided tours of the theatre’s backstage will take place regularly throughout the day.  Visitors can take part in a tempting theatrical taster by watching excerpts from the hilarious ‘Wheeler’s Luck’, currently playing in the Studio Theatre.  The informal, unrehearsed and anarchic form of theatre practised by acting team ‘The Improvisers’, will also amuse and entertain visitors.

“Circa Theatre plays an incredibly important role in adding to the cultural life of the waterfront,” says Wellington Waterfront’s Events Manager Perry Walker.  “We’re pleased to be able to support Circa’s big day by also hosting outdoor entertainment on the waterfront nearby that also sticks with the theatrical theme.”

Outdoor entertainment highlights include the antics of visiting buskers here for Wellington’s Busking Festival and ‘Scary Sagas’ featuring well-known story-tellers Moira Wairama, Tony Hopkins and Ralph Johnson.  Face painting and other theatre-themed activities are also on offer to entertain the young and not so young. 

Circa’s café will be open for refreshments and spot prizes for lucky pounters are also up for grabs.  Prizes include Circa dinner & show packages, dinner vouchers, show tickets and wine are among the prizes.