Steve’s scene: Is Christchurch the coolest city?
Internationally renowned music publicist and consultant, and Dolly Parton’s publicist across New Zealand and Australia, Metropol columnist Steve Guest shares the latest in our creative industry.
Christchurch has been labelled the coolest city in New Zealand, and I think we can all agree.
Lewis Capaldi just wowed fans at the sold out Wolfbrook Arena show on the opening night of his world tour, and The Aotearoa Silver Scrolls Music Awards at the Isaac Theatre Royal brought the cream of New Zealand’s music industry together in our city for the first time. The popular Electric Avenue festival just became the biggest in Australasia – selling out in less than a day. This year, we have had John Bishop, Tami Neilson, Cowboy Junkies and Kaylee Bell, among other acts, performing here.
Waipara Winehouse hosted their first summer concert earlier this month – the newly refurbished venue is a must-visit for a glass of festive cheer.
A highlight on Canterbury’s recent calendar was Priscilla Presley’s visit to New Zealand, which I was lucky enough to facilitate. She amazed audiences with her storytelling of life with the king of rock ‘n’ roll. Special moments on and off stage.
I managed to organise a quintessential Christchurch night out with Priscilla and ‘The British Elvis’ Sir Cliff Richard while they were both in town (their shows fell on the same date) at the King of Snake, followed by Monarch for a cheeky cocktail (shout out to the Warring Group). That night, the stories were flowing fast, I can tell you. Before Priscilla lit up the
Isaac Theatre Royal stage, we whisked her away to catch the first 30 minutes of Sir Cliff’s Town Hall performance before speeding back to the venue to produce her intimate evening show. Yes, magic happens in Christchurch.
As Christmas approaches and the untangling of Christmas lights, book tickets to see live entertainment, or gift them to loved ones. My suggestions would be Ed Sheeran’s January appearance, Scottish pop rockers Deacon Blue coming in February, and Biffy Clyro, the huge United Kingdom-heralding rock band playing at the intimate James Hay Theatre. Don’t miss Te Kaha One New Zealand Stadium’s opening night gig.
Head to Penny Lane, one of the friendliest record stores in the world to get any last-minute gifts.
I just want to wish everyone a Merry Christmas, I’ll see you on the flip side.
