New Zealand International Arts Festival Begins

From legendary sitar player Ravi Shankar to acclaimed conductor Vladimir Ashkenazy, the New Zealand International Arts Festival presents the best arts events the world has to offer.

A total of 930 artists from 30 countries will bring the latest in international theatre, music, dance and visual arts to Wellington.

The festival features 18 Australasian premieres, including the latest work from legendary director Peter Brook. This year, the New Zealand International Arts Festival has built a new 500-seat performance venue with a nightclub on the waterfront - offering music performances and award-winning cabaret theatre.

The festival also includes an array of free events including France's street theatre maestros Royal de Luxe and their Revolt of the Mannequins - for nine days store windows in the central business district will be overtaken by 40 mannequins playing out scenes from their lives.

The festival runs from 26 February to 21 March - visit the New Zealand International Arts Festival website.