1 minute read
Q&A with David Sutherland
Whoa! Studios
David Sutherland - Chief Dood, Creator of Whoa! Studios and Custard’s World. In 2015, technology entrepreneur, David Sutherland had a vision – to create a space for children and families to come together through the magic of live theatre, healthy play and healthy food. He set to work transforming what was a derelict industrial site and warehouses in Henderson, West Auckland, into Whoa! Studios.
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Why is Whoa! touted as the most exciting family destination in Auckland?
Transformed with the help of talented West Auckland’s set designers; the playground, theatre, and film studio are beautifully detailed which give visitors that bygone era feeling that something magical could happen. Parents love The Grounds Restaurant, headed up by resident West Aucklander and celebrity chef Ben Bayly. The seasonal menu is delicious, as is the wine and craft brew list - and there's a children's menu suited to even the fussiest of eaters.
Can you tell us about Custard’s World?
Custard’s World is an original children’s series about a young hero and his friends who must fight off the nefarious Dr Gloom who is intent on stealing all the smiles in his home town of Doodle to become super villain of the year. Filled with laughs and adventure our heroes make sure Dr Gloom gets his just deserts – usually right in the face. Custard’s World is available to view on HEIHEI and TVNZ on Demand.
Does Whoa! have any exciting plans in the pipeline?
Although Whoa Studios has been impacted by COVID-19 which has resulted in a cancellation of the 2020 show season, we are in development for our biggest ever show for release early 2021. ‘My Little Sister’ features our Kea hero from Custard’s World and a bunch of New Zealand predator ‘banditos’ trying to steal his sister ‘Eggling’. With partnerships with Auckland Council, Kea Conservation Trust and Predator Free NZ it will be sure to inspire, educate and help make a difference to our fragile native birdlife.