About Auckland Theatre Company

Auckland Theatre Company was founded in 1992, out of the ashes of the Mercury Theatre, and produced its first season in 1993. The first Artistic Director was Simon Prast, who established the Company as a successful artistic force, performing at theatres across the city. He was followed by Colin McColl ONZM, who created an unprecedented 18 seasons including opening the Company’s new home, ASB Waterfront Theatre, a place where theatre-makers can dream big. The Company is currently led by Jonathan Bielski who presented his first season as Artistic Director in 2022.

Auckland Theatre Company’s purpose is powerful storytelling that connects communities and enriches lives. The backbone of the Company’s artistic work is writing by New Zealand playwrights, reviving canonical works and investing in new commissions every year.

The Company provides leadership for the performing arts sector, offering resources and professional development for theatre workers and nurturing the next generation of New Zealand storytellers. The Company engages and inspires young people as learners, audience members and artists in their own right.

The result of the Company’s work is inspired communities, where storytelling uplifts, unifies and challenges.