Annabel Norman - Director, Nelson Arts Festival.

Can it be 12 years since we first went out to schools and explained the concept of a masked parade? From its early, somewhat stiff beginnings, what is now the Port Nelson Masked Parade has developed into a dynamic event that involves so many people and spans so many art forms - music, dance, performance, mask-making costume and, most recently, whole schools in choreographed performance pieces (thank you teachers and parents). For me the parade captures the spirit of participation and creativity that the Nelson Arts Festival is all about. After months of planning and chasing funds the music starts, the crowds pour into town and the shouts of children in their costumes and masks create the magic that is the festival. And yes, every year this is what makes the effort worthwhile.

David Naylor - General Manager, Nelson School of Music

Having been involved in the music and education sectors at a local, national and international level I am constantly amazed by the amount and wide range of musical events that take place at the Nelson School of Music. The school is unique in New Zealand, the hub of music-making locally and accessible to all sectors of the community. I often reflect on the foresight and the courage of the founders of the school in 1894 who created such a marvellous institution for all of us to enjoy and treasure.

Grae Burton - Artistic Director

Outdoor Shakespeare in Nelson is about realising the best aspects of Nelson's community and celebrating the arts. It aims to be a fusion of both traditional and dynamic contemporary performance art. Producers, Will Power Productions, established in 1995, is a company dedicated to developing performing arts and artists and taking Nelson’s theatre to the world. Don't miss out on your chance to experience the magic and celebration of Shakespeare in one of Nelson's renowned botanical reserves in beautiful summer twilight.

Bill Findlater - CEO, Economic Development Agency

The Nelson Regional Economic Development Agency (EDA) recognises the significant contribution the arts sector makes to the region.

National and international visitors are attracted to the richness and diversity which Nelson artists offer. The wide variety of paintings, sculpture, jewellery, fashion, furniture and other mediums enables us to capture the uniqueness of Nelson and highlight the many good reasons to come and spend time here.

We are proud to support and encourage this valuable sector of our economy.

View Profiles

Adam Chamber
Music Festival
Nelson Arts Festival
Woollaston Nelson Jazzfest Nelson School of Music
Nelson Symphony Orchestra
Abel Tasman
Educational Trust
NMIT
Creative Tourism

Other Performers

Kath Bee("The Nancies")

Bob Bickerton

Aly Cook ("Ruby")

Dramatix New Zealand

Paul Johnston Freewheelin'

Brett Holland ('Mr Nobody')

Kim Merry/Still Life Production

Grant Knowles ("Ederlezi","Grio")

Shoji Springett

Lorna Waide ("Lotus")

Will Power Productions