Three iconic New Zealand actors join forces this November at The PumpHouse Theatre in Takapuna in performances of the classic play ‘Heroes’.

Gustave (David Aston), Phillipe (Stephen Papps) and Henri (Bruce Phillips) – war heroes all – keep each other company on the back patio of an old soldier’s retirement home, plotting to escape their confinement, providing a reminder that you are never too old for a bit of anarchy and laughter.

Well known throughout New Zealand, the three veteran actors will all be instantly recognisable to any theatre or film lover. They have all entertained on stage, radio and TV (all of them in the obligatory Shortland Street at some point) and film screens for decades.  They have also appeared on stage in Auckland at the Mercury Theatre, Silo, Pop-Up-Globe and Auckland Theatre Company, Downstage and Circa in Wellington, Court Theatre in Christchurch and the Fortune Theatre in Dunedin.

Milford resident David Aston has performed on most of the main stages around New Zealand over the years. Although he has attended shows at the PumpHouse Theatre many times, this is his first time on the PumpHouse stage. He considers ‘Heroes’ a play that is at times sad and at times absurd, but one that touches our souls – and frequently also presses our funny button, as we get to know the three war veterans and their foibles and eccentricities. David comments, “I look forward to working with my fellow actors, Bruce and Stephen, to make this play come alive and take our audience on a moving journey.”

‘Heroes’ was the 2006 winner of the Laurence Olivier Best New Comedy Award. Originally written in French by Gerald Sibleyras and translated and adapted by the inimitable Tom Stoppard, this hilarious and poignant tale highlights the unlikely bonds formed through shared experiences.  The play may be set in France but these are characters we all recognise, with director Janice Finn working with the veteran actors to bring them to life on the PumpHouse stage.

Heroes plays in a strictly limited season at The PumpHouse from November 7 to 17. Early Bird booking discounts are available until Friday 18th October

Bookings (09) 489-8360   www.pumphouse.co.nz

Performances: Tuesday to Saturday at 7.30pm (No Monday performance)

Matinees: Saturday 16 November at 2pm; Sundays 10 & 17 November at 4pm

Ticket prices

Adults               $45 (Early Bird booking $39)

Groups (10+)   $39 (Early Bird booking $35)

Seniors             $39 (Early Bird booking $35)

Friends of the PumpHouse    $30

Students/Equity                       $25