Our Kaupapa

It’s boring sitting still for an hour. RUFF AS GUTZ aims to create high-energy performances that are fun, chaotic and engaging. The company is populated by people who HUNT for memorable experiences and things we have never seen before, cultivating RUTHLESS JOY whenever we can.

Developing strong, positive interpersonal relationships across the Aotearoa theatre scene, each project works in a non-hierarchical structure that puts wellbeing ABOVE the final product, striving to give all who work with us agency in the making of the work.

Across design and performance disciplines we emphasise devising in our creative processes. Holding open rooms for collaboration is part of how we create alive spaces that are inclusive and VIBRANT.

We design theatre as a GATEWAY DRUG. We bring new audiences to the theatre and TRICK THEM into thinking they should go again. Aiming to push boundaries and divert expectations, our shows break the rules in both form and audience expectations. Show-goers are invited to relax and be themselves, to laugh, throw milk balloons, talk and share the moment with those around them.