“Flanker!? I don’t even know her!?!”
Written and performed by Raureti Ormond, Grass Roots is a semi-autobiographical musical comedy based on his life as the (very) queer son of a pro rugby player.
From the club fields to Eden Park, a young man embarks on an odyssey through the New Zealand Rugby Ages. Join him in this historical exploration of queerness, masculinity and the mighty Land of the Long White Cloud. Featuring iconic kiwi hits, you’re in for a ruck-us night! Lace up those cleats… Grass Roots is about to kick off!
This solo show examines the good and the bad of rugby; the machismo and dysfunction, the camaraderie and pride. It unearths the forgotten stories of the game, from the legends of 18th Century Warwickshire to the tales of the 1981 Springbok Tour – and you can’t forget a very important stop in the clubhouse changing room! Most importantly, it speaks to the nature of growing up as a takatāpui/queer person in Aotearoa. The ultimate catharsis is found within the bond shared by a father and son, who seemingly come from two different worlds, but teach each other the true measure of what it means to be a man.
Actor, Writer
Visual artist
Designer
Musician
Operator
Spoken workd artist
Musician
Stage Manager
$45 Tīkiti Tautoko (This unsubsidised ticket price supports Te Pou Theatre)
$36 Pakeke (Adult)
$34 Kaumātua & Hapori (Senior & Community Services Card)
$32 Tauira (Student ticket) / Rōpū (6+)
*Proof of claim is required, please have your ID card ready to present when attending the event.
For Tīkiti Tūru Wīra, select ‘Wheelchair Access’ section when booking online, then select a ticket price from the list presented.
If you need assistance with your booking please contact us at booking@tepoutheatre.nz or via phone on (09) 213 0496 during the hours of 9am – 1pm.
NB: Transfers for tickets will not be permitted
When you arrive at Corban Estate, follow the signs that lead to our whare.
CycleThere is a scenic cycle way that leads to Corban Estate Arts Centre. Lock your bike up in the bike stand available on site.
Bus & trainBus and train links arrive at Henderson Transport Centre, which is within walking distance to our whare. Check the public transport route in your area to plan your trip.
ParkingFollow parking directions as you enter into Corban Estate Arts Centre.
The Te Kōpua foyer, bar, kauta and pae tīkiti will be open 1 hour before show time. 
Our Bar serves a full range of beverages (non alcoholic and alcoholic) and snacks.
Our Kauta will be open for tasty bites before the show including steamed hāngī buns from The Hāngī Master, a vegetarian platter and a selection from ‘I Love Pies’.
🎟️ Our Pae Tīkiti (Box Office) will be open for ticket sales and pick ups.
Note: We no longer accept cash payments but welcome all major cards and paywave.
Wheelchair and walker accessibility
Our whare is accessible to wheelchairs and walkers.
To ensure you have the best visiting experience, contact us at ticketing@tepoutheatre.nz about your access needs so we can anticipate your visit.
Please note, your walker will need to be stored away during the performance so that it’s not a trip hazard to other patrons. An usher will return your walker to you whenever you need it.
Service animals
Service animals are welcome at our whare. If you’re bringing a service animal to an event, contact us at ticketing@tepoutheatre.nz before your visit so we can anticipate your arrival.
Blind & Low vision patrons
For this show we are providing pre-show notes in accessible formats for blind and low vision patrons.
We encourage you to share the gift of theatre by passing your ticket onto someone else to enjoy if you have to stay home.
This show contains adult themes, coarse language, racial slurs & content that may be offensive to some.
