Review Archive
James Redwood brings a discerning eye and a life-long passion for storytelling to his work as a theatre reviewer. While his direct experience in performance lies in live music promotion, his deep appreciation for the performing arts stems from a profound respect for their ability to connect and transform communities.
Known for his meticulous attention to detail, shaped by his neurodiverse perspective, James approaches theatre with high standards and a commitment to celebrating excellence. Yet, this critical lens is always balanced by his admiration for the generosity and dedication of those who bring stories to life on stage.
For James, the magic of theatre lies in its ability to disappear, leaving only the story behind—one so powerful it moves audiences to tears. He believes theatre, when done well, teaches us about the world and equips us to navigate it. As an introvert, James sees theatre as a bold, even risky, act of connection—one that can unite audiences in profound and meaningful ways. To him, the joy of a well-told story in the theatre surpasses all other forms of storytelling.
Outside the theatre, James is an experienced educator, having taught a range of subjects at both secondary and tertiary levels. He now (2025) works in management at Kuratini Tuwhera. With a Bachelor of Communications and a deep appreciation for good writing in all its forms, James combines his love of words with a passion for the land, nurturing a connection to the soil and everything it cultivates.
As a proud member of the Theatreview team, James is honoured to contribute to the vibrant tapestry of Aotearoa’s performing arts community.
Welcome to the review archive.
Theatre and dance reviews since 2006.
BUCK SCOURGE: LIVING NIGHTMARE
Wellington
01/11/2025 - 01/11/2025
"Celebrates the silliness we allow ourselves with the people we love..
Is it off? - Mo Munn
Wellington
07/05/2025 - 13/09/2025
"Fearless comedy, beautiful singing; relatable, honest, endearing, affirming..
"When Mo is on point, her show goes off in very good way..
Chloe’s Revenge
Wellington
10/09/2025 - 13/09/2025
"Impressive performance, funny, poignant – and script could use some editing..
For the Love of Spam
Wellington
03/06/2025 - 07/06/2025
"A truly unique, beautiful and humanising experience..
He Ingoa
Wellington
30/05/2025 - 31/05/2025
"We are elevated, empowered, connected, identified..
Kajun Brooking Escapes The Hood
Auckland, Wellington
13/05/2025 - 24/05/2025
"A painful redemption story with painful, pun-driven dad jokes..
Brynley Stent – Bonetown
Auckland, Wellington
07/05/2025 - 17/05/2025
"More variety would be welcome from top-notch talent..
Henry Yan – Dancing Is Just Physical Talking, So Let's Make A Podcast
Auckland, Wellington
06/05/2025 - 17/05/2025
"Engaging material in search of a story arc..
He Huang – White Man's Burden
Auckland, Wellington
06/05/2025 - 14/05/2025
"Brilliant, subtle satire; supremely confident crowd work and scripting..
James Mustapic – All Good If Not
Wellington, Auckland
09/05/2025 - 17/05/2025
"Profoundly Good comedy as an empathy-builder..
Dan Boerman – Folds A Fitted Sheet On His Own
Wellington
06/05/2025 - 09/05/2025
"Gentle laughs, wry chuckles and guffaws at poignant insights..
The Wicked Winds of Wellywood
Global
14/02/2025 - 08/03/2025
"Good idea needs more work to satisfy the real murder mystery audience..
Space Invaders
Dunedin, Wellington
19/03/2024 - 08/03/2025
"Intimate message bravely spread with humour, grace, skill and authenticity..
"Making hysterectomies hysterical..
HAUSDOWN
Wellington
04/03/2025 - 06/03/2025
"Dry and devastating innuendo, selective and amplifying profanity, knowing and joyous archetypes..
Don't Bully Me! I'll become a Comedian
Wellington
27/02/2025 - 01/03/2025
"Despite WIP problems, well-worth the bargain ticket price..
OH SUBSTANCE
Dunedin, Wellington
28/03/2019 - 22/02/2025
"A physically powerful, exposing performance – deserves to be seen..
"Clever entwining of separate narratives..
Death, Ray.
Wellington
18/02/2025 - 22/02/2025
"Philosophical conundrums explored; brilliant, snappy dialogue; hilarious and masterful..
The Tittles!
Wellington
18/02/2025 - 22/02/2025
"Powerful comedic performances; concept could develop further..
ASMR PARTY
Wellington
17/02/2025 - 17/02/2025
"Leaves the audience of self-selected ASMR connoisseurs well-satisfied, tingling..
THE BALLAD OF BACKBONE JOE
Wairarapa, Wanaka, Nelson, Tauranga
21/04/2015 - 21/10/2017
"She's a bit ropey, mate, but it does the trick..
"Multi-tasking to the extreme..
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