A new theatre show coming to Nelson next month will shine a spotlight on rescue greyhounds at a time when greyhound racing in New Zealand is nearing its end.
Social Animal will be performed at the Theatre Royal on 7 June at 6pm as part of the Arts On Tour NZ programme, which brings professional theatre and music productions to regional centres around the country.
The show tells the story of Joe Quigley, a once-famous television detective whose life unravels after a social media scandal destroys his career and marriage. Struggling to find purpose away from the spotlight, he unexpectedly forms a bond with a rescue ex-racing greyhound that follows him home.
Presented in association with Greyhounds as Pets, the production comes just weeks before greyhound racing in New Zealand is due to end in July 2026, with thousands of dogs expected to need homes once they leave the industry.
The solo production stars veteran New Zealand actor Stephen Papps, who plays a range of characters throughout the show. Stephen has worked across theatre, film and television for more than 35 years and won Best Actor at the New Zealand Film Awards for End of the Golden Weather.
The show was co-created with writer and director Damon Andrews, known for his long involvement with Shortland Street.
The Nelson performance has been partly sponsored by PetMart, which is providing dog treats for some lucky ticket buyers.
Arts On Tour NZ organises tours of professional New Zealand performers to smaller towns and rural communities, helping regional venues access productions that may otherwise only be seen in larger cities. Previous Arts On Tour shows at the Theatre Royal have included performances by Whirimako Black. Tickets are available from www.theatreroyalnelson.co.nz
Social Animal will also be performed at The Mussel Inn in Golden Bay on Wednesday, 24 June.
