NZ Opera — The Monster in the Maze

In an exciting and unusual twist to operatic tradition, New Zealand Opera is producing a show where amateurs sing on stage with professionals. ‘The Monster in the Maze’ retells the myth of the minotaur. The groundbreaking work is community-focused and community-driven. In the performance, community singers and instrumentalists stand shoulder-to-shoulder with their professional counterparts.

When King Minos defeats the Athenians, he decides to punish them by destroying their hope for the future. Every year, the king compels the conquered Athenians to send him their youth. He gives them to the minotaur, a terrible beast at the centre of his island’s maze. The youth are not willing to accept their fate. The story is about resistance, justice, and finding power in collectivism.

‘The Monster in the Maze’ has been praised by audiences, participants, and reviewers worldwide. Its Aotearoa debut season is directed by Anapela Polataivao. Anapela is known for directing the feature movie ‘Red, White & Brass’ (2023), and live theatre piece ‘Wild Dogs Under My Skirt’.