The New Children's Ballet: The Bomb
12–13 September 2026
The Bomb is a joyful, uplifting story about courage, confidence, and celebrating what makes you unique.
The Bomb follows a young boy determined to perfect the ultimate bomb (or manu!) into the water. Guided by his Nan – a former champion – and learning to trust his own instincts, he discovers his own spectacular style and delivers a bold, breathtaking, acrobatic bomb that’s sure to delight audiences of all ages.
This magical 40-minute ballet is the perfect introduction to the world of dance, offering children and their whānau an unforgettable live theatre experience, followed by an opportunity to ask questions about the performance.
Free for all whānau and communities to enjoy, The Bomb makes its debut at Soundings Theatre, Te Papa, on 12–13 September 2026. No pre-booking is required – just come along! Seating is available on a first come, first served basis, so arrive early to secure your spot!
📍 Soundings Theatre, Te Papa Tongarewa Museum of New Zealand
📅 12–13 September 2026
🎟️ Free entry – seating is limited, arrive early to avoid disappointment.
✨ Relaxed performance featuring NZSL interpretation on 12 September.
💬 Performance narrated in Te Reo Māori on 13 September.
👯♀️ Optional Dance workshops at Rongomaraeroa on level 4 ($5 per child)- bookings essential.
Behind the scenes
These Royal New Zealand Ballet Dance Workshops are a unique opportunity for children to learn ballet from RNZB Dance Educators.
These 30-45 min workshops offer a special insight into The Bomb, by the Royal New Zealand Ballet and introduce some basics such as foot and arm positions, pliés, balances, and jumps.
Suitable for children aged 3 – 10 regardless of their previous dance experience.
All workshops $5.00 per child. Limited capacity, book below.
Email education@rnzb.org.nz with any questions or concerns.
Credits
Creative Direction
Lauren Byrne
Choreography
Josh Guillemot-Rodgerson
Costume Design
Victoria Gridley
Composer
William Philipson
Set Design
Anne-Lisa Noordover
Author
Sacha Cotter
Illustrator
Josh Morgan
Publisher
Huia NZ
Narration
Ngareta-River Ingram, Te A Kruger-Taylor and students from Toi Whakaari NZ Drama School
Commissioned with support from
The Fehl Charitable Trust