Show Ponies makes its long-awaited debut in Tamaki Makaurau! After smash-hit shows for Verb, Featherston Booktown, NZ Young Writers Festival, and Brisbane Writers Festival, the show finally arrives – presented by Samesame but Different and Auckland Pride in an exciting Pride Edition – with a lineup of nine LGBTQIA+ NZ poetry icons.

If you haven’t heard of Show Ponies, the concept is simple: poets are pop stars now. It’s poetry with the volume right up, more gig than reading. Aotearoa’s most engaging live poets perform their work in outrageous costumes, amongst bright lights, beats and backup dancers. This is an electrifying poetic extravaganza that you won’t want to miss.

The PRIDE edition of Show Ponies will feature Freya Daly Sadgrove, Dan Goodwin, Emma Barnes, Vanessa Mei Crofskey, Sam Duckor-Jones, essa may ranapiri, Ruby Solly, Rebecca Hawkes and our 2023 Honoured Writer Chris Tse.

“Show Ponies was something else. Freya Daly Sadgrove had a vision, and she brought it to reality in more luxury, glitter and glory than anyone could ever have hoped.” —Hannah Newport-Watson, Pantograph Punch

“Show Ponies was expressive, evocative and entertaining.” – Virag Dombay, Nothing Ever Happens in Brisbane


Content warning: Contains adult themes, strong language and references to mental health.

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Please arrive at least 15 minutes before show start time. Latecomers admitted into the theatre at Basement's discretion. No refunds will be given. 

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COVID-19 measures at Basement Theatre:

- Our spaces are small and have a lack of airflow, so we still strongly encourage you to wear a mask while watching a show. You are welcome to remove it to eat and drink.

- If you have any COVID-19 symptoms or have been required to isolate, please stay home. If you find yourself with a ticket but are unable to come, here are the details on what you can do with your ticket.

- Full details of Basement Theatre’s Covid-19 prevention measures