Arts Spinning stories at Fairfield House

Kate Russell

Fairfield House will be brimming with stories from local youth this Friday night.

Fourteen young raconteurs aged from 12 to 17 years old will be telling their own authentic and original stories in an event called ‘Spin a Story’.

“These well-told stories will be an opportunity for individuals to share their own life experiences with young and old,” says organizer Nikki Karki. All stories will be recited in and around the grounds of the iconic and historical venue on Van Diemen St. Nikki says ‘Spin a Story’ started as a workshop run by local musician, teacher, puppeteer, and actor, Roger Sanders.

“In the workshop, youth learnt storytelling skills, and from this, they came up with a story from their own lives.”

They then attended mentor sessions with Nikki to help shape their story and be ready to perform it to an audience.

Nikki chose the event to take place at Fairfield House as the venue is close to her heart.

“I was in a theatre company called Body in Space for years, and Fairfield was our theatre residence. We rehearsed in there weekly, sometimes daily, and performed various shows, as well as ran drama and improv classes for youth and adults,” she says.

“I love how it has the beautiful grounds around it as well.”

On Friday, they will use some of the rooms to perform in, such as the ballroom with the open fire going to create atmosphere.

“As it will be nighttime and winter we will serve hot chocolate, and have the brazier going with marshmallows to roast, whilst some perform their stories. We will also use the meadow,” Nikki says.

“Some youth will also play instruments to add to the atmosphere of being around a campfire.”

People are encouraged to come prepared with a torch, warm clothes, a blanket, and comfortable shoes.

‘Spin a Story’ is on this Friday, 23 June, 7pm until 8.30pm. Tickets are $5 for youth and $10 for adults, and are available from www.eventfinda.co.nz