The most powerful medicine of all

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Written by Jenny Pattrick, one of Aotearoa’s most loved writers (The Denniston Rose) and directed by Lyndee-Jane Rutherford (Prima Facie), HOPE is a family drama that rises hot from within.

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Hope is a poignant exploration of a near future where, in order to reduce spending, a controversial government bill bars people with terminal illnesses from receiving anything but pain management in their final year of life. Piano teacher Irina, a Ukrainian refugee, is cared for at home by her son Daniel with a dubious mix of natural and illegal remedies. But when Irina’s feisty daughter returns from the war and a famous former pupil turns up on their doorstep, hope and delusion blur together making us question the morality of fighting for your life and your loved ones.

Can human connection, music and laughter give us the hope, which might just be the most powerful medicine of all.

From the creatives behind the smash hit Circa season of Prima Facie. Original piano compositions by 2023 Douglas Lilburn Composer in Residence, Briar Prastiti, recorded by renowned pianist, Michael Houstoun. The characters will be brought to life by a cast of stellar New Zealand performers: Perry Piercy, Mel Dodge (Prima Facie), Jack Buchanan and Tāmata Porter.

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‘One of this country’s most talented storytellers’ – Nicky Pellegrino