Christchurch performers unite to help talented brothers reach world hip hop championships

Kineta Knight
Kineta Knight
Jul 17, 2026 4:52 pm |
Barnaby and Franklin Domigan / Supplied

Some of Christchurch’s most recognised musical theatre performers are joining forces for a one night only cabaret to help two talented young brothers represent New Zealand on the world stage.

All profits from ‘One Night Only’ will support Barnaby and Franklin Domigan as they prepare to compete at the Hip Hop Unite World Championships in Tauranga later this year.

The brothers earned their place at the international competition after winning silver in the duos category at the New Zealand Hip Hop Unite Championships. Funds raised will help cover their travel, accommodation, competition entry fees, uniforms and other costs associated with representing New Zealand.

The intimate cabaret will feature Alyssa Parkinson, Chris Symon, Cole Moffatt, Grant Lowe, Phoebe Finnie, Sarah Kelly and Sophie Harris, alongside Barnaby and Franklin.

Actor, director and improviser Daniel Pengelly will host the evening with Christchurch drag performer Little Miss Cinnamon.

The audience can expect iconic musical theatre numbers and other well-known songs performed by artists familiar to audiences through The Court Theatre, Showbiz Christchurch and other local productions.

Barnaby, 13, and Franklin, 11, are no strangers to the Christchurch stage. The brothers recently shared the demanding lead role of Charlie Bucket in Showbiz Christchurch’s production of ‘Charlie and the Chocolate Factory’, alongside fellow young performer Shepherd Brooks.

They have also performed together at The Court Theatre, sharing the roles of John Bechdel in ‘Fun Home’ and Ainsley in ‘Appropriate’.

Their latest hip hop achievement follows earlier success as members of Anna Lee School of Dance junior crew Full Force, which won its national division in 2025 and qualified to represent New Zealand at the World Hip Hop Championships in Prague.

Maddison Vallance and Bella Mather from the dance school have also won places at the Unite World Champs.

‘One Night Only’ will be staged on Sunday 2 August, 7.30pm, Silhouette Studio Theatre, Christchurch.

More information here.

Kineta Knight
Kineta Knight

Kineta Knight is a highly experienced senior journalist, content creator and producer. She has worked as a reporter for radio, TV, digital and print, as well as editor of lifestyle magazines in NZ and the UK. Kineta's interests include all-things creative and community. Contact: [email protected]

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