Date of creation: 2024
c/o Ana Lorite - 393A Marychurch Road, RD4
3284
Hamilton
New Zealand
mailchi.mp/259a01e66400/unima-aotearoa-new-zealand
www.facebook.com/UNIMANewZealand/
www.instagram.com/unima.aotearoanz/
Presentation
Brief history
UNIMA Aotearoa New Zealand traces its origins to Puppeteers in New Zealand (PINZ), established in 1986 as the local branch representing UNIMA. Key figures such as Norbert Hausberg and Rose Beauchamp played a foundational role in fostering the puppetry community. Rose spearheaded the first New Zealand puppet festival in 1986, which featured a remarkable parade of Peace Doves soaring down Lambton Quay in Wellington, promoting nuclear disarmament and world peace. Following Rose’s leadership, L. Peter Wilson became the UNIMA NZ representative. A respected puppeteer and creative visionary, Peter made significant contributions to the development of puppet theatre in New Zealand, including nurturing young artists and engaging with international puppetry networks. In June 2024, UNIMA Aotearoa New Zealand was officially recognized as a national center by UNIMA International. The elected leadership includes Jon Coddington as President, Ana Lorite as General Secretary, and Sarah Bell as Treasurer.
Important projects and achievements
- First New Zealand Puppet Festival (1986): Organized under Rose Beauchamp’s leadership, this historic event included the memorable Peace Doves Parade on Lambton Quay, showcasing puppetry’s potential to inspire peace and unity.
- “Out of the Suitcase Festival” (2016): Initiated by Rose Beauchamp, this grassroots festival celebrated puppetry’s charm and accessibility, inspiring future puppetry events in New Zealand.
- Wellington Puppetry Festival (2024): Drawing inspiration from “Out of the Suitcase,” this festival brought puppeteers from across New Zealand together, creating opportunities to share skills, strengthen community relationships, and celebrate the art of puppetry.
Additional web links: https://linktr.ee/unima.aotearoanz