What does it take to survive when the world around you is falling apart?
That question sits at the heart of Mother Courage and Her Children, the powerful anti-war play coming to the Kāpiti Coast with Maven Theatre Company in partnership with Te Raukura ki Kāpiti, and with support from Kāpiti Coast District Council’s Arts Sustainability Fund.
Lee Hall’s adaptation of Bertolt Brecht’s iconic play follows Mother Courage, played by Lindsey Rusling, a determined woman travelling through war with her children. Doing whatever she can to keep her family alive. Packed with humour, unforgettable characters, stirring music, and moments of heartbreaking humanity, this bold production explores the price of survival in times of conflict.
Written more than 80 years ago, Mother Courage and Her Children remains incredibly relevant. With wars continuing around the world and social division affecting communities, Brecht’s exploration of conflict, survival, compromise and the choices people make in desperate circumstances feels particularly timely.
While the subject matter is confronting, this is far from a sombre night at the theatre. The production is filled with humour, music and theatrical energy, alongside moments that are both moving and deeply unsettling. It is theatre designed to entertain, challenge and stay with audiences long after the curtain falls.
For Maven Theatre Company, the production continues its commitment to bringing bold, ambitious and thought-provoking theatre to local audiences. Following their inaugural production The Ballad of Maria Marten in 2025, Maven is thrilled to continue their journey with this bold new work for Kāpiti audiences.
The play contains adult themes and some content that may disturb and is recommended for audiences 16+.
What: Mother Courage and Her Children
Where: Te Raukura ki Kāpiti Sir Jon Trimmer Theatre:
When: 2-10 October 2026, 7:30pm.
Tickets $38 – Book at Te Raukura ki Kāpiti or in person at the Coastlands Mall Customer Service Counter.
https://teraukura.nz/event/mother-courage-and-her-children
