Upper Clutha residents will get the chance to watch a supremely well-reviewed play ‘The Daylight Atheist’ when it comes to Hawea later this month as part of a national tour.

‘The Daylight Atheist’ probes at the broken heart of a family, and draws the audience into the truth of a profoundly tragic figure who rejects any need for tenderness or normal human intimacy.

Written by award-winning satirical cartoonist and Footrot Flats co-writer Tom Scott, the play is inspired by Tom’s own father, a deeply flawed yet charismatic man.

The character is brought to life by legendary Kiwi actor Michael Hurst who takes on the persona of Danny Moffat, an ageing Irish raconteur.

Retreating from the harsh light of the world to his bedroom, Danny sorts through a lifetime of memories and regrets, from growing up as a boy in Ireland, to the hopes and disappointments of immigration to New Zealand.

The inventive and fiercely funny play “has its audience roaring with laughter” (The Age, Melbourne) and the writing “sparkles with wit” (NZ Herald). 

Broadway World says the show is unmissable. 

"Michael Hurst is simply captivating as Danny Moffat. Hurst didn't show us the life of Danny Moffat, he took us with him, melding skills with charisma ... 'The Daylight Atheist' is a must-see".

The play is being brought to Hawea with support from Arts on Tour New Zealand, a touring agency which takes productions to rural and outlying areas of New Zealand.

The performance will take place at the Lake Hawea Community Centre on Sunday July 26 at 7pm. 

Tickets are $25 for adults and $10 for children, and tickets can be purchased at Sailz Lake Hawea and OCD Cafe at the Wanaka Medical Centre. There will also be door sales. 

PHOTO: Supplied