Enjoy the busker’s buzz on Courtenay Place this weekend

The Buskers Programme kicked off in early April, and since then punters in the precinct have been treated to circus acts, music, comedy and more. 

Event manager at Courtenay Place Brett McCall says Wellingtonians have plenty more to look forward to as the initiative continues.  

Acts coming up include SKRAM, Rocket Berry, Culture Embassy and Crash Bandihoot. 
 
“With a huge offering of entertainment, from the theatre to restaurants and bars, Courtenay Place has long been the place to visit for locals and visitors. 

“With the buskers out and about at weekends, people can pause and catch a live show on their way to dinner.” 

“The buskers programme celebrates the creativity and spirit of our community. We aim to foster a dynamic street culture that enhances what the precinct already has to offer.” 

He says the circus programme at the Tripod Stage on the eastern end of Courtenay Place, opposite Embassy Theatre, is working well with about 50 people coming to check out each show. 

This weekend features a stellar line-up, kicking off with Tom Knowles on Friday night on the El Horno stage, playing roots-reggae with a sprinkle of soul, rock, and funky times. 

Saturday 4 May is International Star Wars Day (May the 4th be with you). To celebrate, the day jazz trio The Playmates, led by Rachelle Eastwood, are reimagining the best theme tunes from the iconic movies at the Tripod Stage.

Afterwards Nicole Maisy takes the same stage for a circus act that includes contortion, chair balancing, and walking on bottles. 

Saturday also sees the Side Characters on the Courtenay Park stage. The up-and-coming foursome plays covers from the likes of Amy Winehouse, the White Stripes, and the Pixies, as well as their own original music. 
 
Wellington City Council Central City Manager Prak Sritharan says: “This has been such a wonderfully vibrant addition to Courtenay Place, and it’s been fantastic seeing family friendly crowds gather for these events.

“Be sure to check out the programme and head along this weekend!”

Upcoming events

Friday May 3  
Tom Knowles, 9pm, El Horno Stage (Outside 30 Courtenay Place)

Saturday May 4 

• The Side Characters, 7pm, Courtenay Park Stage (near corner of Taranaki St and Courtenay Place)
• Rachelle Eastwood, 7pm, Tripod Stage (Opposite Embassy Theatre)
• Nicole Maisley, 7.30pm, El Horno Stage, (Outside 30 Courtenay Place)

Supported by Wellington Airport and Wellington City Council, this programme is part of the Courtenay Place Precinct Plan.

For more information about the Courtenay Precinct Buskers Programme, including performance schedules and opportunities to busk, please visit the Courtenay Place Precinct Facebook page or contact courtenayprecinct@gmail.com.