Universally acclaimed and emotionally powerful, HOME LAND cements Gary Henderson's reputation as one of New Zealand's leading playwrights. On February 20 The Court Theatre proudly presents Henderson's compelling family drama to Christchurch audiences.

Stephanie McKellar-Smith directs a stellar cast of actors: John Bach plays Ken Taylor, an aging farmer who adamantly wishes to remain on the family land despite his increasing infirmity. Alistair Browning, Eilish Moran, Ross McKellar, Sandra Rasmussen and Amy Straker complete the cast as the children and grandchildren who return to the family farm to make the difficult decision as to Ken's future.

McKellar-Smith acknowledges that "the themes of the play are deeply moving and very powerful - I don't think there are any New Zealanders who haven't been touched in some way or another by this situation. We set out to find the light in a dark situation - despite the troubles they face, they are a family and HOME LAND celebrates that strength as much as the heartbreak".

Artistic Director of The Court Theatre Ross Gumbley also salutes the strength of Henderson's script. "At the first read-through - just six actors in chairs reading the work aloud - there wasn't a dry eye in the room: the play speaks that effectively."

HOME LAND has received considerable acclaim throughout New Zealand: it was commissioned for the 30th anniversary season of The Fortune Theatre in Dunedin in 2004, and in 2007 was nominated for six Chapman Tripp Theatre Awards in Wellington, winning five (including "Best new New Zealand Play" and "Production of the Year").

McKellar-Smith has worked with Henderson before, performing in The Court's Production of Henderson's play PENINSULA, which he also directed. She regards Henderson's ability to capture the "voice" of New Zealanders as one of the playwright's greatest strengths. "The relationship between New Zealanders and their parents and grandparents is something that everyone can recognize. This play is a testament to the power of family."

Additional notes:

* Stephanie McKellar-Smith is Co-ordinator of Acting at the National Academy of Singing and Dramatic Art at Christchurch Polytechnic. In 2006 and 2007 Stephanie appeared in the world premiere of Gary Henderson's play PENINSULA at The Court which toured to the Brisbane and Nelson Arts Festivals. She has directed John Bach in two plays at The Court: THE RAFT in 2007 and BLACKBIRD in The Forge in 2008.

* John Bach has appeared in several Court productions in the past few years, including the world premire seasons of THE RAFT and YEAR OF THE RAT.

* Eilish Moran makes a welcome return to The Court after a two-year hiatus, last appearing in UNDER MILK WOOD in 2008.

HOME LAND by Gary Henderson

Directed by: Stephanie McKellar-Smith

Venue: Court One, The Court Theatre, Christchurch

Cast: John Bach, Alistair Browning, Ross McKellar, Eilish Moran, Sandra Rasmussen and Amy Straker

Production Dates: 20 February - 20 March 2010

Performances: 6pm Monday / Thursday; 7:30pm Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday and Saturday (no show Sundays).

2pm matinee Saturday 27 February

Tickets: Adults $45, Senior Citizens $38, Tertiary Students $26, School Children $15,

Group discount (20+) $33, Matinee $29 (27 February only)

Bookings: The Court Theatre, 20 Worcester Boulevard; 963 0870 or www.courttheatre.org.nz