Theatre that talks back
Sharp, funny, and deeply felt, with strong, relatable, character-driven scripts. Plays that fill houses, spark conversation, and stay with audiences long after the curtain falls.
Comedy
When Beach Haven Rest Home faces closure at the hands of a developer, the aging residents resolve to raise the money to stay put by starting an adult chat line.
"A brilliantly written and uplifting comedy — with witty one-liners and poignant moments of comic genius."
Drama
A dinner party among long-time friends spirals spectacularly out of control. Buried secrets, war trauma, and bitter truths collide in a night no one will easily forget.
x"I did laugh out loud, but then wondered whether I had any place doing that given how confronting Fall Out is. It made for a lengthy discussion in the car on the way home."
Comedy / Drama
Heaven and Hell need a reset. God and Satan are collaborating on a new development for non-believers, and all they need is one stubborn atheist to sign on the dotted line.
x"If this is James Carrick's debut as a playwright, then the theatrical world is in for an absolute treat. The one question on everyone's mind — when's the next one?"
Comedy / Drama
Shaving Ewe follows a community thrust into the spotlight when the international sheep shearing finals unexpectedly come home.
x"This play perfectly depicts a slice of rural Kiwi life — we found ourselves wondering if this English fella who resides in Auckland had been eavesdropping on our conversations down at the pub."
James Carrick is an English-born, New Zealand-based playwright whose sharp wit, warmth, and deep appreciation of everyday humanity have made his work a favourite with audiences and performers alike. Originally from Brighton, England, James moved to New Zealand in 2007 and has called Devonport, Auckland, home since 2017, where local conversations, lived experience, and community stories continue to fuel his writing.
A former stand-up comedian, current musician/songwriter, and ongoing award-winning actor, James brings a finely tuned ear for dialogue and character to the stage. His plays — including Shaving Ewe, Fall Out, Welcome to Hellansville, and the widely acclaimed Call Girls — are celebrated for their humour, heart, and relatability, balancing laugh-out-loud moments with genuine emotional insight.
Central to James's creative life is his partner and trusted editor, Liz Cannon, whose insight, support, and editorial eye play a vital role in shaping his work. Their creative partnership is closely tied to Phoenix Theatre, the North Shore community theatre company where James began his theatrical journey in 2012. A passionate advocate for community theatre, James believes live performance builds connection, empathy, and shared experience.
"We knew we were onto something when ticket sales started rolling in. We reached our break-even point before opening night and had full houses through the whole season."
Phoenix Theatre, Auckland, on Call GirlsAll licensing for James Carrick's plays is handled by Playmarket NZ, New Zealand's leading script licensing agency. They'll take care of everything you need to get a production underway.
View All Works on Playmarket
Have a question about a script, want to find out more about a play, or just want to say hello? James is happy to hear from you directly.