The Hunt for the Canterbury Panther

New work in development premiering at TAHI, in partnership with Creative NZ, Taki Rua Productions, and PAYPA

You’re formally invited to the Shirley-East Cryptozoological Convention — where Aotearoa’s monster hunters gather to share their research into creatures beyond the realm of “modern science”. Rumour has it Naomi Coleridge has caught the Canterbury Panther… but is it real? And what’s that growling coming from the side of the stage? Grab your tinfoil hat and join Naomi as she faces the trials and tribulations of Aotearoa NZ’s outdoors in pursuit of something greater. Heartfelt, cringey, and very silly, this play explores achievement, family expectations, and self-realisation, with a strong connection to our natural environment. Best suited for rangatahi aged 10-14 and their families.

CREATIVE TEAM
Co-writer, Producer and Performer: Anna Barker
Co-writer: Jack Ellison-Jones
Director: Zachary Klein
Dramaturgy: Rachel McLean
Set Designer, Set Builder, and Lighting Designer: Nathan Arnott

ABOUT ANNA
Anna Barker is an actor and creative based in Pōneke. Graduating with a Master of Fine Arts in Theatre (Acting, Distinction) from Te Herenga Waka, she also holds a Bachelor of Arts with a double major in theatre and film. With a background in acting, devising, stage management and publicity, Anna loves to work in a collaborative setting, specialising on the wild, the wacky and the comically absurd. She has worked around Aotearoa on and off stage with large casts, durational works, and solo managing large venues.

Theatre for young people had a strong influence on Anna growing up, sparking an ongoing love of performing arts. This is Anna's first adventure into solo performance, and she cannot wait to bring to life an original piece for young people that hopefully ignites a simmilar passion for live theatre.