Dakota of the White Flats

Dakota of the White Flats is an adaptation of the novel by award-winning author Philip Ridley. A high-action pulpy punk noir that snatches the classic coming-of-age adventure story out of the hands of a gang of boys, and passes it to two loud, unapologetic, brave young women.

Dakota Pink is 13-years-old and afraid of nothing. She lives in a bleak housing complex on the edge of a polluted canal. Abandoned supermarket trolleys litter the streets and the oil slick water is filled with monstrous mutant eels. Dakota and her best friend Treacle discover a secret that propels them across the water to the Broken Glass Fortress on Dog Island.

Delivered in electronica inflected neon and grime, Dakota of the White Flats is a finely crafted narrative shot through with comedy, horror, immersive soundscape and live music. Directed by Ella Becroft, with set design by John Verryt, lighting by Rachel Marlow and composition by Eden Mulholland, this fast-paced and electrifying show celebrates the resilience, bravery and hope of young people in a changing world.

Powered by a pulpy 90s tone infused with the high-octane energy only a child could muster, all cylinders are firing here to create a delightful epic audiences won't forget quickly. Ethan Sills, The New Zealand Herald

Red Leap has delivered entertaining, imaginative theatre that pays homage to gutsy girls, friendship and hope. Buckle up for the ride. Mary de Ruyter, Theatrescenes

Awards & Nominations

2022 PAYPA Awards

Most Original Production

2023 Wellington Theatre Awards

Nominated - Director of the Year, Ella Becroft
Nominated - Excellence Award for Ensemble
Nominated - Lighting Designer of the Year, Rachel Marlow
Nominated - Set Designer of the Year, John Verryt

Nominated - Sound Designer of the Year, Eden Mulholland
Nominated - Costume Designer of the Year, Ana van Shie de Pont
Nominated - Performer of the Year, Batanai Mashingaidze

Once in a while, a show like this comes along and drives home how important live theatre and the arts are for young minds. Kate Morris, Eyes on Wellington

An hour of fizzing, popping, sparkling theatre. A gourmet of the galloping variety. Every moment crammed full of creative inventiveness. Jan Fisher, Theatreview