Buckle up: Ben Tucker-Emerson on a rollercoaster of a musical
Saturday, 18 April 2026
Ben Tucker-Emerson, co‑founder of WITCH Music Theatre, is the director of the New Zealand premiere of Ride the Cyclone, running at Circa Theatre until May 9. Known for his work in contemporary musical theatre, he talks to The Post about why this cult musical feels like a match for the city and what audiences can expect.
Hi Ben! For anyone new to it, can you tell us what Ride the Cyclone is about and what makes it such a unique musical?
After boarding a doomed rollercoaster ride, six members of the St Cassian Chamber Choir find themselves in limbo. Greeted by a mysterious mechanical fortune-telling machine, they are given the chance to return home in one piece. So, you know, your classic musical theatre tale.
What makes Ride the Cyclone unique is the way it reveals each character’s inner world through a cleverly constructed shape-shifting score and a whip-smart book. One minute you’re in a glittery space opera, the next a French cabaret, and then suddenly something surprisingly sincere. It’s truly unlike anything else, and that’s exactly why it’s built such a devoted global following.
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What drew you to this show as a director, and why did you want to bring it to Wellington for its New Zealand premiere?
It drew me to it because it doesn’t quite play by the rules, and that’s always a great sign that you’re in for something interesting. I’m attracted to titles with a strong point of view and a distinct voice. Ride the Cyclone sits unapologetically left of centre, yet remains surprisingly vulnerable and full of heart, which makes it incredibly exciting to direct.
I was also keen to bring something that pushes the form. Playful, sharp, and trusting of its audience to keep up with its antics. As a city, I think we’re pretty proud of embracing work that challenges expectations and offers something new to the conversation, so this piece felt right at home within that cultural identity.
The musical has a cult following overseas. What do you think will resonate most with New Zealand audiences?
I think New Zealand audiences have a real appetite for irreverent humour, especially when it’s laced with self-awareness, a bit of naughtiness, and quick wit, which this show delivers in spades.
At the same time, there’s something deeply familiar about it. From its game-show format to the awkward intensity of adolescence, Ride the Cyclone resonates across generations while tapping into bigger questions about mortality, loss, and what makes a life worth living.
How would you describe the tone of the show?
For those who don’t know it, Ride the Cyclone is surprisingly hilarious. And I’m not just saying that; audiences have been in hysterics. It’s got a very smart book with an ironic, witty and satirical tone that feels sharp and accessible.
I think that’s the key, too. It’s a comedy first and foremost, which is often the best way to explore these heavier ideas and themes. The humour disarms you, and then suddenly you’re somewhere much more emotional without quite realising how you got there.
As a director, that balance between absurdity and sincerity is the joy of the piece. You’re constantly walking that tightrope, and when it lands, it really lands. This cast absolutely delivers on that.
What can you tell us about your cast and creative team?
Where do I even begin? This team is stacked — Maya Handa Naff, Lane Corby, Henry Ashby, Jade Merematira, award-winning Jackson Burling, and newcomer Logan Tahiwi, alongside swings Natasha McAllister and Finlay Morris. Their generosity, comic instinct, and technical skill are what make these outrageous characters not just entertaining but genuinely human.
Holding it all together is Jthan Morgan (fresh from TVNZ’s Mr Hugo’s Little Library ), in a brilliantly demanding multi-role as Stage Manager, as well as the voice and puppeteer of Kira Rose Kemp’s stunning design for The Amazing Karnak.
Behind the scenes, we’ve got a powerhouse team: Emily McDermott’s choreography is rich, collaborative, and story-driven; Hayden Taylor’s musical direction soars across the score’s many genres; and our designers — Scott Maxim (set), Alex Fisher (lighting), Rebekah de Roo (projection), Ollie Devlin (sound), Dottie Olsen (costume), Courtney Ilton (props), and Josh Tucker-Emerson (technical direction) are firing on all cylinders to create something pretty spectacular on the Circa Theatre stage.
Why should audiences grab a ticket?
It’s unlike anything else on stage in Wellington right now. Ride the Cyclone is wildly imaginative, a little bit bonkers in the best way, and unexpectedly life-affirming.
Like any great comedy, it keeps surprising you; you’re never quite sure which way the ride will turn next, but you can be certain it’ll be one hell of a journey.
With a sold-out opening weekend and glowing reviews already rolling in, this is one musical you’ll want to catch while you still can.
Ride the Cyclone, WITCH Music Theatre, Circa Theatre, to May 9. Tickets: circa.co.nz