Dramatic Pause
A newsletter for arts and culture coverage across New Zealand and the world, including journalism, reviews, and essays by Sam Brooks.

Latest

Mar
14
Critical Corner: Smashed and Hedy!

Critical Corner: Smashed and Hedy!

In this edition of Critical Corner, reviews of Auckland Arts Festival shows SMASHED - The Nightcap and HEDY! The Life and Inventions of Hedy Lamarr.
4 min read
Mar
07
Critical Corner: Belle

Critical Corner: Belle

In this edition of Critical Corner, a review of Belle, playing as part of the Te Ahurei Toi o Tāmaki Auckland Arts Festival.
3 min read
Mar
05
I Have Too Many Thoughts and Feelings About Six: The Musical

I Have Too Many Thoughts and Feelings About Six: The Musical

Some too-deep thoughts and scattered feelings about Six: The Musical.
5 min read
Feb
27
Critical Corner: Mā

Critical Corner: Mā

In this week’s edition of Critical Corner, a quick review of Mā, the final show in this year’s Pride Elevates programme.
3 min read
Feb
20
Critical Corner: Star Gazers, Body Story, Panti Bliss

Critical Corner: Star Gazers, Body Story, Panti Bliss

In this edition of Critical Corner, capsule reviews of Body Story, Star Gazers and Panti Bliss.
5 min read
Feb
13
Critical Corner: What Happened to Mary-Anne?

Critical Corner: What Happened to Mary-Anne?

In this edition of Critical Corner, a review of What Happened to Mary-Anne?
4 min read
Jan
28
Critical Corner: Didion and Babitz

Critical Corner: Didion and Babitz

In this edition of Critical Corner, a review of biography Didion and Babitz.
5 min read
Jan
14
Critical Corner: The Book of Love

Critical Corner: The Book of Love

In this edition of Critical Corner, a review of Kelly Link’s debut novel, The Book of Love.
5 min read
Jan
03
Critical Corner: Best Books of 2024

Critical Corner: Best Books of 2024

A little bit late, but hey, here's my best books of last year if you want to get
6 min read
Dec
18
Critical Corner: Best of Theatre 2024

Critical Corner: Best of Theatre 2024

In this edition of Critical Corner, the best shows I saw in 2024, plus specific standouts.
9 min read