Sometimes all you need to inspire change is a piece of gum

Co-written by Te Wehi Ratana and Tainui Tukiwaho
Directed by Tainui Tukiwaho

In December 2023 the group ‘Te Waka Hourua’ set the country alight when they painted over the English Treaty of Waitangi Exhibition at Te Papa to read… ‘No. Her Majesty the Queen of England the alien. ration the Queens veges.’ This ‘redaction action’ provoked strong opinions across Aotearoa – some sang their praises, others called for blood. While all of the artists were charged, only one received prison time: Te Wehi Ratana.

This uplifting new one-man play is inspired by true events, and shares the remarkable experience of the abseiling activist during his 48 hours at Rimutaka Prison.

Ration the Queen’s veges is a story of how one action can inspire change in unlikely places. It is a story about the quiet voice of defiance that still burns within us even when we are silenced – a piece of gum and Brian, Te Wehi’s ingenious cellmate, were all that was needed to fan the flames and hear them roar.

Click here to download the ration the Queens veges Circa Theatre show programme

Saturday 16 August to Saturday 13 September
Preview Night: Friday 15 August
Sunday Special & Q&A: Sunday 17 August
Choose Your Price Night: Tuesday 19 August
Tues – Sat 7.30pm, Sunday 4.30pm
Circa Two
$30 – $60

Runtime: 50 Minutes (no interval)
Audience Care: This show contains course language that may be offensive to some.

Relaxed performance: 4.30pm, Sunday 24th August
Pre-show notes are available on request – email [email protected]

Audio Described Performance: 4.30pm Sunday 7th September