Ars Acustica

Free Theatre Christchurch presents Ars Acustica—an avant-garde theatrical music fair in the woods.

Surrounded by trees and orchards in the heart of Waltham, we invite you to join us for our first theatrical adventure in Waldheim (the Germanic version of Waltham which translates literally to “home in the woods”).

Ars Acustica builds on Free Theatre’s earlier successful collaboration The Mauricio Kagel Project (2015), which was presented in the Christchurch Arts Festival. Featuring works by Argentinian composer Mauricio Kagel including “Exotica” and “Ballet for Non-Dancers”, Ars Acustica will now also delve into Kagel’s major influence, the pioneer of avant-garde music, John Cage.

Directed by Peter Falkenberg in collaboration with the CSO, UC School of Music under the curatorship of Mark Menzies and NZSO conductor Hamish McKeich. Ubu’s Bar open from 7:30pm before each performance.

Public "Instrumental Theatre" workshops and a Symposium are offered as part of the project. The participants will create their own Instrumental Theatre performances and this may also provide an opportunity for them or their creations to become part of the project themselves. For more info on these workshops or to book a place in one please see our website.

Ars Acustica is presented with the support of Creative New Zealand, Pub Charity Ltd., LiVS and Ara Institute of Canterbury.