St James Theatre Wellington
Macbeth Ballet Wellington 2026 | Book Tickets Now
More Timings
| Date | Price | Book Now |
|---|---|---|
| Feb 26 Thu 7:30 PM | - |  |
| Feb 27 Fri 7:30 PM | - | |
| Feb 28 Sat 7:30 PM | - | |
| Feb 28 Sat 1:30 PM | - | |
Overview
The Royal New Zealand Ballet presents Macbeth, a bold and visceral reimagining of Shakespeare's tragedy that marks the opening of their dynamic 2026 season. Choreographed by internationally acclaimed Australian artist Alice Topp, this world premiere co-production with West Australian Ballet transforms the classic tale into a contemporary exploration of political ambition, power, and downfall set within a volatile high-society world. The production features a groundbreaking score by Christopher Gordon that layers full orchestral arrangements with heavy metal influences and live string octet, creating an electrifying soundscape that propels audiences through themes of seduction, paranoia, and inevitable destruction.
Macbeth showcases the Royal New Zealand Ballet's artistic versatility through cutting-edge choreography and exceptional performances from the company's dancers. The production brings together an exceptional creative team including award-winning designer Jon Buswell and Sydney-based costume designer Aleisa Jelbart, whose bold contemporary aesthetic brings the volatile political world to life. Performances take place at St James Theatre Wellington, one of New Zealand's premier theatrical venues, offering an intimate yet grand setting for this searing exploration of ambition and its consequences. 
Highlights
World Premiere Choreography: Alice Topp's groundbreaking new work marks a major contemporary ballet for Aotearoa, bringing a world of bloodshed, betrayal, and intrigue to the stage through cutting-edge choreography that draws upon the full versatility of the company's dancers.
Innovative Live Score: The production features a pounding new composition by Christopher Gordon that layers a full orchestral score with heavy metal influences and a live string octet, creating a visceral musical landscape performed by the New Zealand Symphony Orchestra.
Award-Winning Design Team: Renowned designer Jon Buswell creates both set and lighting design, while Sydney-based costume designer Aleisa Jelbart brings a bold, contemporary aesthetic to the stage, creating a volatile political and media world.
Co-Production with West Australian Ballet: This major new ballet represents a significant collaboration between two of Oceania's leading ballet companies, bringing together exceptional talent from across the region for a truly ambitious theatrical production.
Festival Premiere Event: Macbeth premieres as part of the Aotearoa New Zealand Festival of the Arts and Te Ahurei Toi o Tāmaki Auckland Arts Festival, positioning this production as a major cultural event for 2026.
Artistic Range Showcase: The production demonstrates the Royal New Zealand Ballet's incredible versatility as a company, showcasing the technical skill of their dancers and the capabilities of their technical team in delivering contemporary theatrical ballet.
Sentiment Analysis
World-class contemporary choreography by internationally acclaimed artist Alice Topp
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Innovative fusion of classical ballet with live orchestral and heavy metal music
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Exceptional creative design team delivering cutting-edge visual storytelling
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Showcases the full artistic range and versatility of Royal New Zealand Ballet dancers
Contemporary experimental style may not appeal to traditional ballet purists
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Limited venue capacity at St James Theatre may result in high ticket demand
Know Before You Go
Performances of Macbeth take place at St James Theatre Wellington, located in the heart of Wellington's cultural district. The Royal New Zealand Ballet recommends arriving early to ensure entry without delays, as demand for this world premiere production is expected to be high. General admission is available to audiences of all ages, though the visceral and intense nature of the production may be more suitable for mature audiences and those comfortable with contemporary interpretations of classic themes. Patrons should check the official RNZB website for current bag policies and any venue-specific restrictions. This co-production is presented in association with Avis and has received significant support from the Haythorne Circle.
Hot Tip
Book your tickets early through the Royal New Zealand Ballet's official website or via the St James Theatre Wellington box office, as this world premiere production is anticipated to sell out quickly given the international acclaim of choreographer Alice Topp and the innovative nature of this contemporary reimagining of Macbeth.
Frequently Asked Questions
Location
Meeting Point
St James Theatre Wellington Wellington NZ NZ
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