“Oliver” Auckland Musical Triumph!

Oliver 1
Although the musical “Oliver” has finally come to an end it will be forever captured in the heart of every performer, director, and theatre goer in Auckland. This by far was one of the most memorable Sky City Theatre events and can only be described as a Musical Triumph!
Sam and all the boys who played in the cast made memories and gained invaluable experience working with great directors, producers, and of course the fantastic Mark Hadlow! The best thing about this show was the fact that it didn’t Pick a Pocket or Two while at the same time made you Consider Yourself At Home! It was as if it was saying; “I’d do Anything For You”.

I personally was privileged to see this wonderful musical production in the States, and while different actors, producers and directors were involved, it made an everlasting impression on me.  I know that it will stay in my heart for a long time and that the voices of so many wonderfully talented treble singers will ring in my ears for many years to come!
The last night of the show was met with many a tearful eye from each of the cast.  There is just something to be said about the emotions that erupt within the heart of every actor when you know this is the last night.  New friendships that were made during this time end far too soon.  They wonder, “Will we ever meet them again or work with them in another production”?  “Will this be the last time I ever see this co-actor”?  And even though the body is tired and seeking rest there is a resounding cry that goes up by each performer “I wish this would never end!”
Yes “Oliver” has come to an end at the theatre but these are the memories that will keep it living on forever.  And I am so happy that I have captured them here for you to return to whenever your lonely for just one more,

Play it again Sam” !

Coca Cola Christmas Features: “Sensational Sam”

Christmas in the Park program

This year on December 12th, Auckland’s Coca Cola Christmas in the Park, has once again lined up some of the best talent New Zealand has to offer!  But you can be assured, this blogger has his eyes focused on just one young talent who continues to impress time and again.

Sam Verlinden

has landed a spot once again as one of the great talents who will be performing on that memorable evening.

When asked about his being chosen again for this year’s Concert, Sam replied,“I feel very lucky as it’s most young singers dream to perform at Coca-Cola Christmas in the Park.”

Sam your too modest! You deserve to be there every year, as your ability to sing and perform just keeps getting better with each year that passes. 

While Sam is considered not quite a teen due to his just turning 12 years of age this month, his last stage director said; “Sam is more mature than most of his adult counterparts!

Yes this year will be a fantastic line up with the likes of:      

  • Midnight Youth
  • Frankie Stevens
  • The Lady Killers
  • Dane Rumble
  • Drew Neemia
  • Vince Harder
  • Phil Madson
  • Ainslie Allen
  • Funky Monkeys
  • Eve
  • Surf Lifesaving Ambassadors
  • Petra Bagust
  • John Cambell
  • Lisa Crawley
  • Roz Turnbull
  • Ashley Cooper & Mike Tipping
  • Barry Southgate
  • Ben Kara
  • Jessica Graham
  • Laura O’Sullivan
  • Anna Wilson
  • Louisa Collier
  • Massad Barakat-Devine
  • Andrew Papas
  • Nerida Cortese
  • ReQuest Hip Hop Crew
  • Diamond Entertainment
  • Kids Crew

All these and more surprises to make one of the best evenings Auckland has to offer.
Don’t miss this outstanding time of music and fun in the park.
For more information see the following site.