The New Zealand Symphony Orchestra
Storytime Series
In collaboration with the NZSO and Read NZ, we designed and produced this nine-part web series.
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Brief
The NZSO & Read NZ wanted to create a series of classic kiwi stories read by kiwi celebrities and filmed with a live NZSO ensemble.
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Our Vision
We wanted to transform the concert venues into cosy, magical spaces full of curious props and lights to catch the eyes of tamariki. Vintage furniture was selected to inspire nostalgia for the parents and create a homely feel.
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The Results
The series has so far received over 320,000 views online and has since been turned into a live show. NZSO are using the project as educational material to teach kids about classical instruments.
Mrs Wishy Washy’s Farm
Read by Suzy Cato Written by Joy Cowley
Our first Storytime collaboration with the talented Composer, Clare Cowan and the National Kiwi Treasure Suzy Cato!
“What a cool thing to do!!! Got to love Aunty Suzy, a timeless reminder of a great childhood!”
The Bomb
Read by Troy Kingi Written by Sacha Cotter
Sasha Cotter’s award winning story book is brought to life by Troy Kingi’s dreamy vocal performance and amplified by Clare Cowan’s textured composition.
“My boys were entranced, what a wonderful performance”
The Stolen Stars of Matariki
Written & Read by Miriama Kamo
Clare Cowan’s ethereal composition blends beautifully with Miriama’s narration of her very own book in this playful Matariki story. There is something very special about this one.
“One of the highlights of my life, to read along with the sensational NZSO and this amazing piece composed by Claire Cowan. There were tears!” - Miriama Kamo
The Little Yellow Digger
Read by Jennifer Ward-Lealand Written by Betty Gilderdale
Betty & Alan Gilderdale’s kiwi classic is infused with a jazzy number by composer Clare Cowan and read by renowned actor and 2020 New Zealander of the Year, Jennifer Ward-Lealand.
“Watching for a 2nd time as 3 year old loved it with lots of giggles.”
Tio Tiamu
Read by Maaka Pohatu Written by Kurahau
We shot this 20 minute feature in the stunning Stella Maris Chapel of Wellington. In collaboration with Huia Publishers this piece was delivered with sincere heart by Maaka Pohatu as part of Te Wiki o Te Reo Maori 2020. With a complex compostion by Tane Upjohn-Beatson this piece is a bit of a tear-jerker.
“Kia ora i tēnei! Harikoa ana ngā tamariki ki te mātakitaki. Wonderful to hear this story alongside NZSO”
The Little Yellow Digger Saves Christmas
Read by Pere Wihongi Written by Peter Gilderdale
Bringing back the OG Little Yellow Digger in this new release book! Pere brings a dynamic and exciting performance to accompany the funky number behind this kiwi christmas story.
“So creative, I love it.”
A Lion in the Meadow
Read by Anna Coddington Written by Margaret Mahy
Composition by Phillip Norman
Anna reads one of her favourite children’s stories like the pro that she is. Accompanied by the full orchestra this one will leave you on the edge of your seat.
“Children loved the story and music thank you so much from granny & grand children.“
Snake and Lizard
Read by Raybon Kan Written by Joy Cowley
Raybon reads one of Joy Cowley’s classics accompanied by the full orchestra in all it’s glory. Phillip Norman’s very cinematic composition will keep you on the edge of your seat!
“Fantastic”, “Love it!”, “Wonderful”
I Roto te Ngāhere Te Wiki O Te Reo Māori Special
Read by Ria Hall Written by Yvonne Morrison & Jenny Cooper
Nā Kāterina Te Heikōkō Mataira te kōrero Māori
This special episode was released in celebration of Te Wiki o Te Reo Maori 2021! Ka pai!
“Ngā mihi maioha i ou mahi ataahua”
“What a great way to learn te reo. Just like a pepe”
“Very special.”
Photo Edit: PeanutButterVibes Photography
Photo: PeanutButterVibes Photography
Photo: PeanutButterVibes Photography
Photo Edit: PeanutButterVibes Photography
Photo: PeanutButterVibes Photography
Photo: PeanutButterVibes Photography
Photo: PeanutButterVibes Photography
Photo Edit: PeanutButterVibes Photography
Photo Edit: PeanutButterVibes Photography
Photo Edit: PeanutButterVibes Photography
Photo Edit: PeanutButterVibes Photography
Photo Edit: PeanutButterVibes Photography
Photo: PeanutButterVibes Photography
Photo Edit: PeanutButterVibes Photography
Photo: PeanutButterVibes Photography
Photo Edit: PeanutButterVibes Photography
Photo Edit: PeanutButterVibes Photography
Photo Edit: PeanutButterVibes Photography
Photo: PeanutButterVibes Photography
Photo Edit: PeanutButterVibes Photography
Photo: PeanutButterVibes Photography
Photo Edit: PeanutButterVibes Photography
Photo: PeanutButterVibes Photography