How does a Theatre celebrate its 15th Birthday? By dressing up as a cruise liner, of course...

BATS Theatre is turning 15 so the staff are throwing a massive cruise liner themed fundraising party, hoping to be able to buy the well loved theatre some new lights and upgrade its lighting grid as a special birthday gift.How does a Theatre celebrate its 15th Birthday? By dressing up as a cruise liner, of course...

BATS Theatre is turning 15 so the staff are throwing a massive cruise liner themed fundraising party, hoping to be able to buy the well loved theatre some new lights and upgrade its lighting grid as a special birthday gift.For one day only on Wednesday 7th April the theatre becomes the Love BATS, complete with the Starlight Lounge, a grand ballroom, and even the opportunity to dine with Captain Stubing and buy a drink from handle-bar moustached Isaac.

Though BATS is still a teenager, the BATS lights are definitely of the flower-power generation, dating back to the 1960s with a past that includes work for TVNZ in the 70s. With over 50 shows through BATS every year,
including hundreds of technicians, it is time for the old lights to enter blissful retirement and give some newbies a chance to shine.

The local arts and business communities have shown their love of BATS Theatre with donated prizes for the evening flowing into the office, a reflection of the mana built-up by BATS from 15 years of providing fantastic and accessible theatre to the public.

But the fundraiser is not just for a good cause. "Its going to be the party of the year", says BATS Programme Manager Paula van Beek. "We are having
everything from a karaoke cupboard to a beauty salon, with fantastic bands and DJs of all types and styles to give us an international flavour."

Tbe "Love Bats" will be taking guests round the world with the help of bands and DJs donating their time and talents. The Raskalnokovs will be providing a Russian stopover, with the chance to learn to Salsa when the ship cruises through the Caribbean. Tufaan Express DJs take partygoers to India, before a stop off in the Pacific Islands where the drummers from The Tempest might be persuaded to teach a hula. Those in for a late night can then get their funk on with Uncle Barnie and Dunc tha Funk spinning records into the wee small
hours.

As with all BATS shows, everybody is welcome to come and cruise around the world on the "Love BATS" on Wednesday 7th April at 1 Kent Terrace from
7.30pm till late, $10 on the door.

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BATS THEATRE
1 Kent Tce
Wellington
Aotearoa-New Zealand
bookings 04 802 4175
office 04 802 4176
fax 04 802 4010
BATS