A New Brain

Written by William Finn and James Lapine
Directed by Cassandra Tse
Music directed by Lauren Simpkins

Part of the HEART+MUSIC Festival

Footlights proudly presented the New Zealand premiere of this beloved Off-Broadway musical about life, death, brain surgery and frogs. The show's rousing full ensemble number, "Heart and Music", provided the inspiration for our festival's title.

Cast

Dominic Taffs - Gordon Schwinn
Michael Stebbings - Roger Delli-Bovi
Karen Anslow - Mimi Schwinn
Marysia Collins - Lisa
Alex Rabina - Mr. Bungee
Mike Bryant - Richard
Eugene Wolfin - The Minister
Caitlin Penrose - Rhoda
Will Collin - Dr. Jafar Berensteiner
Tania Dreaver - Nancy D./Waitress

Band

Crew

Lauren Simpkins - Piano/Conductor
Geraint Scott - Clarinet/Soprano Saxophone/Tenor Saxophone
Sam Rorke - Synthesizer
Bernadette Stander - Double Bass/Cello
Paul Gadd - Drums/Percussion

Sam Burnard - Stage Manager
Chloe Johnston - Lighting Design
Patrick Barnes - Assistant Stage Manger & Sound Design
Aaron Blackledge - Technical Operator

HEART+MUSIC Crew

Abigail Helsby - Production Manager
Sinead McLeod - Assistant Production Manager
Samantha Burnard - Stage Manager
Patrick Barnes - Assistant Stage Manager
Aaron Blackledge - Technical Director
Brendan Goudswaard - Costume Coordinator
Duncan Garrett - Set Construction
Alex Rabina - Publicity
​Margaret Hill - Front of House Coordinator

Photography by Roc+Photography