Interactive festival to light up Tauranga

More than 20,000 people experienced Dreamer during its debut season. Photo / Melissa Nickerson

More than 20,000 people visited the Dreamer show in Auckland.

Now the immersive, interactive light exhibition is coming to Tauranga’s Mercury Baypark Arena from July 10 to 19.

Event producer Jamie Newman said Dreamer was created to offer a light festival without the unpredictability of winter weather.

“Outdoor light festivals are great, but they’re at the mercy of the weather.

“By bringing everything indoors, people can enjoy the experience regardless of the conditions, and because it’s inside, we’re open throughout the day as well.”

Visitors can draw with light, play glowing games, create music on an interactive drum kit and step into digital installations that transform them into a blooming bouquet.

 Producer Jamie Newman says Dreamer brings the magic of a light festival without winter weather risks. Photo / Melissa Nickerson
Producer Jamie Newman says Dreamer brings the magic of a light festival without winter weather risks. Photo / Melissa Nickerson

New features have also been added since Auckland, including a glow drawing room, a musical light installation and updates to the exhibition’s infinity mirror experience.

Beyond the lights and technology, Newman said creating opportunities for people to connect was at the heart of everything he did.

“There’s a lot of division in the world, and experiences where people can connect with friends, family and even strangers help remind us we’re more alike than we are different.”

 Large‑scale digital and light artworks will transform the arena into an immersive playground. Photo / Shakie Cinematography
Large‑scale digital and light artworks will transform the arena into an immersive playground. Photo / Shakie Cinematography

That philosophy also comes from Newman’s other venture, Morning People, the early-morning dance events that have been held in New Zealand for the past decade.

As part of Dreamer, a free Morning People session will be held inside the exhibition on Saturday, July 11, from 7am to 8.30am. It will feature Auckland DJ and Synthony music director Dick Johnson.

Morning People tickets are free but must be booked separately from Dreamer admission.

Newman has plans to take the Dreamer exhibition to other parts of the country.

Dreamer ticket prices

Child: $16 + booking fees

Adult: $24 + booking fees

Under-5 free, no ticket required

Family Pass: $54 + booking Fees

 

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