Ara researcher takes disability theatre work to global platforms
23 June, 2026
Christchurch audiences have rare chance to see Welcome to the Different Worlds of Different Light before it heads to international stage.
The Different Light compnay is joined by audience members on stage during the Wellington season of Welcome to the Different Worlds of Different Light
Christchurch audiences have a rare opportunity this month to see Different Light Theatre’s acclaimed production Welcome to the Different Worlds of Different Light before the company takes the work to international platforms.
Different Light will perform at the NASDA Theatre on 25, 26 and 27 June - it's first Christchurch season since 2019. The show debuted in Wellington last year.
These performances come as Ara researcher and NASDA tutor Dr Tony McCaffrey and the ensemble prepare for a significant period of global recognition.
In July the company travels to the World Congress of the International Federation for Theatre Research at the University of Melbourne, one of the most important global gatherings for theatre academics, practitioners and researchers. The appearance is supported by the Ara Foundation.
Dr McCaffrey says returning to Christchurch before heading overseas is a meaningful moment for the ensemble.
“It’s special to bring this work we performed in Wellington last year home before we take it overseas. The cast has grown enormously through touring and development and we are excited for local audiences to see what they have created.”
The international momentum continues beyond Melbourne. Dr McCaffrey has been selected to create a dedicated disability performance space at the Prague Quadrennial 2027, the world’s leading event for performance design and scenography.
Often described as a blend of the Olympics and Eurovision for performance design, the Quadrennial is a major platform for innovation in global theatre practice.
“This is a huge opportunity to showcase disability performance on a world stage,” he says. “It is a chance to demonstrate the innovation, artistry and depth of work happening here in Aotearoa.”
🎟 Tickets: Welcome to the Different Worlds of Different Light
ℹ️ About the company: Different Light Theatre