The risk is part of the itching in the oyster shell that makes the pearl. It's an essential part of what makes the performing arts so exciting.

Auckland's Nightsong Productions and Theatre Stampede have premiered in Wellington a joyous, theatrical tour de force.

Calexico's instrumentals get the best reaction - with guitar twangs and big-echo whistling, whip-cracks and rodeo yelps - writes Chris Bourke.

Mark Amery reviews 11 and 12 at the New Zealand Arts Festival.

There were years when, as both authors and as publishers, A.H. and A.W. Reed were the main source of Maori myth and legend for New Zealand readers.

Sing the Truth is a tribute to feisty, brilliant jazz diva Nina Simone.

If you do happen to get bitten by something Australian, it's a bit late then to read a For Dummies book on the subject, don't you think?

David Eggleton, who has edited the latest Landfall (it now has a revolving editor), has produced a mix of writers that is immensely satisfying.

The Independent's John Walsh speaks with the author of In Praise of Older Women as his erotic coming-of-age novel joins the ranks of Penguin Classics.

The carny folk have come to Wellington, all sweat, glitter and sawdust.

Paula Green reviews four new collections of poems

New Zealanders are guaranteed a special buzz at the latest MetOpera presentation, opening next week.