As part of New Zealand Music Month, Waimea Weekly is featuring local bands and musicians throughout May, showcasing the talent and stories behind the region’s thriving music scene. This week, Kate Russell speaks with Zeelowsguys creators Matt Werner and Pat Madsen about their mission to entertain and inspire young audiences.
With cheeky characters, catchy songs and plenty of dancing, Zeelowsguys are on a mission to bring fun to kids and families across the region.
Behind the colourful children’s entertainment project are Nelson creatives Matt Werner and Pat Madsen, who have spent the past three years creating original music, story books and live shows built around the world of the Zeelows.
Matt says the idea first came about during a simple conversation with Pat three years ago.
“I was working full-time and he asked me if I’d like to be involved in the Zeelows project. It sounded like a fun idea, and I felt like I needed a challenge and to get out of my comfort zone, so I said yes.”
He says the name Zeelowsguys seemed to be a fitting option, as it was easy to remember and summed up the project well.
Pat is the inventor and creator of the Zeelows characters and story books, while Matt writes and performs the songs for their shows.
Due to Pat enduring two head surgeries and ongoing related health issues, Matt has become the main promoter and performer, taking the music to venues around the region.
Matt says that they each bring different strengths to the project.
“Pat takes care of the visual aspect of the Zeelows creation such as individual character designs and building props. I write the music and come up with action moves for the songs.”
The songs are all original and centred around Chomper the Pony, the main featured character out of the eight creatures in the Zeelows world.
Matt says that the music is intentionally upbeat, simple and interactive.
“We come up with musical ideas that are not over complicated and easy to dance to. I also like using ‘tasty’, more interesting-sounding chords to engage the kids and make things more fun.
“As a performer, I enjoy bringing joy to people through music. Kids are already so full of the wonders and joy of life, and I love watching the mums and dads interact with their kids to the music.
“The energy is always upbeat and the main thing we focus on is fun and enjoyable, as well as making the show interactive and engaging.”
The Zeelowsguys have already published three story books and released original songs, alongside kids-sized Zeelows character T-shirts.
Pat has also been building character face masks for what the pair are calling “the big show”, with a date currently pencilled in at the Theatre Royal on 19 December.
The pair hope that the project leaves a positive impression on children and families.
“We hope children always remember to remain positive in life and you can achieve any goal you put your mind to. We also hope they remember the ‘Chomp Chomp Chomp’ song and how fun the action moves are.”
Asked to describe the Zeelows in three words, the answer comes quickly for Matt: “Cheeky little creatures.”
To listen to the Zeelowsguys music, visit: https://zeelowsguys.bandcamp.com
