BONES a one man play performed by Julian Noel.

At some point, someone in the family has to tell the truth.

A co-creation by Julian Noel and Martine Baanvinger.

"A masterclass in storytelling." Jackson Rosie

Raw. Funny. Confronting. Human.

Fresh from an award-winning season

10 award nominations at the Dunedin Fringe Festival and Nelson Fringe Festival , including Best Show
Nominated for: Best Play, Best Actor, Best Script, Best Director
Winner: Most Promising Māori Performer
Winner: Best Script

One show only.

“Powerful, raw and deeply moving with moments of humour and relief.” Robynne Jephson

What this is

BONES is a one-man play drawn from real stories — the kind most families never speak aloud.

On a bare stage, Julian Noel shifts between characters, memories, and moments that shaped a life. An old woman. A pastor. A child. A boy trying to make sense of it all. And then, finally, himself.

There’s nowhere to hide.

"After 30 years away from the stage and performing I was writing a series of short stories. They decided to become a play. Who was I to say no?"

julian noel

This performance is a sharing for longstanding friends and fellow alumni of VCA School of Drama.

A note on content:

This work touches on family violence, sexual trauma, and inherited pain. It is told with care, and held with respect. What you’ll experience:

Stories of family, identity, and inheritance
Moments of humour that catch you off guard
Deeply human truths, told without flinching
A space that feels intimate, held, and real

Why people stay

Our stories are the houses we live in… but every house has a front door.

This isn’t about sitting in the darkness. It’s about recognising it… and stepping beyond it.

Audiences stay, talk and connect.

People say quietly,“Wow… that’s my family story.” Stories that cross cultures and generations.

There are things in this show people would rather I didn’t say out loud. Which is probably why I’m saying them.

julian noel

“Everybody in New Zealand should see this show.” Producer, Dunedin Fringe Festival

This is a FREE performance.

koha, donations, are welcomed but not expected.

Register now Seats are limited.

This is an intimate room.

Event Details

Location: 75 Reid St. Fitzroy North.

Time: 2:15 PM start

Duration: Approx. 90 minutes + Q&A + optional post-show gathering

For more information visit BONES Website

The experience (after the show)

Stay for conversation. Post show birthday drinks/dinner... if you want to.

Created by

Julian Noel — writer & performer
Martine Baanvinger — co-creator, director

Contact the host of BONES

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