World of WearableArt Show

The World of WearableArt (WOW) Show is an internationally acclaimed annual event. Held every spring, WOW is New Zealand’s largest arena spectacle, often described as “Broadway meets Cirque du Soleil”.

At the heart of WOW is the world’s premier wearable art competition. Designers from across the globe spend months creating extraordinary works of wearable art. Talented performers then bring these phenomenal works to life on the WOW stage. The show combines performance, live music, aerial artistry, dance, and cutting-edge digital technology. It’s a collision of art, fashion, design, and imagination.

Every garment seen on stage is a finalist in the World of WearableArt competition. They’re chosen for their imaginative storytelling and exceptional execution. The competition offers a global platform for artists and designers to break boundaries and push limits. They tell stories through movement, form, and the materials they choose to create with.

The World of WearableArt competition began in 1987 in Nelson. It was founded by Dame Suzie Moncrieff. Her aim was “to take art off the wall and out of static display. To adorn the body in wildly wonderful ways. To celebrate creativity in a lavish and unique on-stage spectacular that will inspire us all.”

The very first WOW show was a humble event attended by around 200 people. In 2005, WOW moved to Wellington’s TSB Arena, allowing for a much larger audience and greater creative possibilities. In its first year in Wellington, the audience size surged by 60%, reaching 28,000 people. Now, the event attracts around 60,000 attendees each year.

The WOW Show delights audiences and allows them to experience the best of Aotearoa’s performance and design talent. It’s an annual must-do for many, drawing visitors from around the country and abroad.

Meg Williams, CEO of WOW, says the city has a special energy during the WOW show season. “We love seeing the wonder that WOW brings to people, and for many, getting out and about in Wellington is a big part of the WOW experience. From soaking up the city’s waterfront to enjoying the shopping and eateries, it’s terrific to see people making the most of the capital when they are here for the show.”

Hero image credit: Myths & Legends Section, Roots of Light, Invisible Tale & Loinnir na Mara.