Purgatory: A Free Community Event from Time Shivers and Basement Theatre
Time Shivers is proud to launch Purgatory, a one night performance art event taking place on Tuesday 4 August at Basement Theatre, aligned with the opening night of On Purpose. Supported by Auckland Council through the city centre targeted rate, Purgatory brings together artists from across Aotearoa to explore what it feels like to create work in a climate that can often feel unforgiving.
Purgatory invites musicians, comedians, visual artists, magicians, and experimental performers to share their own interpretation of the creative limbo many artists experience. The event offers an intimate look at the emotional and practical realities of making art in Aotearoa. It is a space where audiences can witness the raw process behind expression, the moments of doubt, the flashes of inspiration, and the sense of shouting into the void that many creatives know well.
This free gathering is designed as a celebration of resilience, imagination, and community. It is also a chance to acknowledge the people and organisations who help keep independent arts alive in Tāmaki Makaurau. Time Shivers is grateful for the support of Creative New Zealand, whose Early Career Fund has made the development of On Purpose possible. Their backing affirms the value of emerging voices and the future ambitions of the company.
Event Details
PURGATORY, A free community event
Tuesday 4 August, Basement Theatre
Presented by Time Shivers, supported by Auckland Council. For more information: timedotshivers@gmail.com
About Basement Theatre
Basement Theatre is widely recognised as one of Auckland’s most important cultural homes. Metro Magazine has described it as the beating heart of Auckland theatre and a leader in the industry. The venue supports professional and emerging artists across theatre, comedy, dance, music, and interdisciplinary performance. It is known for championing bold ideas and encouraging work that challenges audiences and reflects the many identities that make up Aotearoa.
Each year more than five hundred artists present work in Basement’s spaces. In 2025, more than half of the programme featured new Aotearoa work, and over eighty seven percent of shows were led by vital voice communities including tangata whenua, people of colour, LGBTQIA+ artists, immigrant communities, and disabled creatives.
Basement Theatre operates as a charitable trust. All profits are reinvested into artist development programmes and a risk free box office model that supports sustainable practice for independent artists in Auckland.
Venue enquiries: jordan@basementtheatre.co.nz (basementtheatre.co.nz)
Creative New Zealand
Time Shivers acknowledges Creative New Zealand for their support through the Early Career Fund. This grant has enabled the creation of On Purpose and has affirmed the company’s kaupapa and long term vision. Time Shivers is proud to be backed by an organisation that continues to champion the arts in Aotearoa.
