IWhen I was growing up, New Zealand’s total contribution to global culture was the crooner of Crowded House and Shortland Street, playing Midwestern music to an afternoon soap opera audience. I felt that because my dad is from New Zealand. New Zealand – she still uses an Edmonds cookbook and memorably described the birth of my son as “the strangest thing” – and I’ve had a New Zealand passport since I was nine.
So it’s really exciting to see this year’s Edinburgh Fringe Festival line-up full of exciting young New Zealand talent that truly rivals Europe and America. Rosa MatafioOf course; Star and co-writer StunnedRival and voice of Taskmaster in the upcoming Moana 2. Comedian and host Guy Montgomery. Guy Mont Spelling Bee by Guy MontgomeryIt’s simply crying out for a UK TV deal. Then there are many Alicia SneddonPaul Williams, James Roque, Guy Williams and the Clown Trygway Wakenshaw.
In the world of cinema, obviously, there is Peter Jackson’s woolly mammoth, but… Taika WaititiJemaine Clement and Jane Campion. For books, Meg Mason (she lives in Australia, but we can still claim her) and Eleanor Cotton.
Musically, as well Lord conquers all There are interesting solo artists like Aldous Harding, Princess ChelseaJonathan Brie is a singer, songwriter and Netflix star Sweet toothMarlon Williams. For a population of just over 5 million, that’s not a bad situation.
When I decided that one of the main characters in my new novel would be a New Zealand comedian who comes to England after an unexpected DNA test, it was not a question of innovation but of authenticity. London is full of New Zealand creatives, making their nationality believable and dramatically effective.
It is difficult to say why this upsurge of New Zealand culture occurred. An added benefit of Jacinda Ardern’s tenure as Prime Minister? The global power of social networks? Or the return of former Prime Minister Helen Clark’s children? Who can tell? I’m glad I don’t have to talk about split ens anymore.
“Typical beer advocate. Future teen idol. Unapologetic tv practitioner. Music trailblazer.”