Theatre, films and comedy to see this week

The Dark Horse shows at the International Film Festival tomorrow. Photo / Supplied.

PROMOTION What to see in the Heart of the City this week.

Winter is when we love to indulge our love of the theatre. There's no better way to pass a rainy evening, ensconced in another world. Nearly every night of the week you'll find something on at one of Auckland's great venues.

The New Zealand International Film Festival opens with Kiwi film The Dark Horse at the Civic Theatre. Showcasing international and local films, there's some-thing for everyone at this ever-expanding festival. We can't wait to see the much lauded Boyhood from Richard Linklater, Mexican box-office hit The Noble Family and silent film Prix de Beaute performed with the Auckland Philharmonia Orchestra.

If the orchestra or opera inspires you, you'll want to check out Tristan und Isolde on Saturday at the Aotea Centre; Wagner's take on this Arthurian tale of forbidden love which has inspired composers for generations.

The six-hour epic has a necessary dinner break, which can be enjoyed with a two-course express meal from Dawsons at the Auckland Art Gallery cafe.

Delving into blurred moral lines, Sin is in its final days, showing until Friday at Q Theatre.

Inspired by true stories told by New Zealanders in an anonymous survey, the play is set over seven days in Auckland as a tropical storm approaches. It's said to be an amusing and enlightening look at the extreme consequences of moral dilemmas in the 21st century.

Another Q Theatre pick is Putorino Hill, which began this week. Chris Molloy's story, the result of the 2013 Taki Rua and Court Theatre Maori Writer's Residency, promises to "take audiences on a unique theatrical experience into a magical and sometimes nightmarish world". The rural legend follows one man's journey through life, and it's an epic journey, including ancient battles, patupaiarehe (fairies), prophetic visions and miraculous healings.

For a hilarious and affordable night out, head to Snort. Every Friday at the Basement Theatre, some of Auckland's best comedians play a highly amusing game of improv, with fast-paced scenes based on formats used in New York and Chicago. Billed as "late night improv like you've never seen before", the core cast of more than 10 comedians includes Rose Matafeo and Guy Montgomery, with local and international guests moonlighting.

Later in July, the Auckland Theatre Company presents The Good Soul of Szechuan at Q Theatre, and the New Zealand Ballet's production of Allegro begins. We can't wait.

Sin will depict lust and other sins at Q Theatre until Friday. Photo / Supplied.

THE SHOW NEVER STOPS

Book these events early:

• Taste of Coda at Soul Bar, with Melbourne chef Adam D'Sylva of Coda. August 20.

• NZ Fashion Week at the Viaduct Events Centre, with Designer Selection Shows, hosting options and Fashion Weekend. August 25-31.

• Silo Theatre's Belleville, at The Herald Theatre from August 28.

• Auckland Theatre Company's Jesus Christ Superstar at Q Theatre, Oct 30 to Nov 22.

- VIVA