JUDY’S ENCORE
Written and performed by Ali Harper
9-19 September 2026
Tuesday - Saturday 7:30pm, Sunday 4:30pm
NZSL-interpreted performance on 16 Sep
80 mins
Circa Theatre - Circa Two
1 Taranaki Street, Wellington,
6011, New Zealand
It’s 1967, and Judy Garland is back, ready to reclaim her legacy after the heartbreak of her previous Australian tour. With her iconic voice, wit, and resilience, Judy steps onto the stage once more, determined to captivate hearts and silence the critics. Award-winning Ali Harper channels the music and charisma of the Hollywood star. She performs over 20 of Garland’s hit songs, including “Get Happy”, “The Trolley Song”, “The Man That Got Away” and “Somewhere Over The Rainbow.” As the curtain rises, one question lingers: can Judy’s indomitable spirit carry her through to the final bow? Be there to witness the magic, the drama, and the triumph of a true star.
“…a fabulous performance by a mightily skilled entertainer and a duo of amazing instrumentalists.” - Jo Hills, Theatreview
Recommended 13+.
CREATIVE TEAM
Writer & Performer: Ali Harper
Musical Arrangements: Tom Rainey
Piano: Francis Meria
Guitar/Horns: Blair Latham
ABOUT ALI
With over three decades in the entertainment industry, Ali Harper has carved out a distinctive career as a performer, producer, and creator of compelling one-woman shows that have resonated with audiences both in New Zealand and internationally.
Ali has received top honours at the United Solo Festival on 42nd St in New York, winning Best Actress for Joanna Murray-Smith's Bombshells and Best One-Woman Show for Songs for Nobodies as well as Solo Critics Award for Ali's show Judy's Encore.
Ali's other solo shows include A Doris Day Special, Legendary Divas, The Look of Love and A Natural Woman.
Passionate about connection and transformation through performance, Ali creates intimate theatrical experiences that celebrate resilience, nostalgic celebrations of those who came before us and the enduring power of music.
Presented in partnership with Circa Theatre. Supported by NZ Deaf & Hard of Hearing Foundation.
Acknowledgements:
NZSL Interpreters - Rachel Tate and Fran Collins
Deaf Consultant - Pollyanna Ferguson