The sequel to Phantom of the Opera has hit Australia and it is a treat for the ears and eyes of Lloyd Webber fans.

A week ago, 18 hopeful young violinists were in Queenstown, contesting the elimination rounds of the Michael Hill International Violin Competition; on Saturday night, three were vying for top honours.

Matariki is a way for non-Maori to learn about Maori culture in a relaxed setting.

An early painting by renowned New Zealand artist Charles Frederick Goldie could bring more than $500,000 when it goes up for auction in Auckland next month.

Auckland arts patron James Wallace is worried about financial support for the arts by upcoming generations of wealthy professionals.

In The Brothers Size, a Silo play now on at Auckland's Herald Theatre, Pua Magasiva plays Oshoosi Size, a wayward young African-American just released from prison.

There seems to be a trend for long titles with meanings that remain obscure until you've read a decent chunk of the book.

The biggest pop star in the world, she doesn't have fans so much as disciples. But has Lady Gaga's Jesus complex gone too far? asks Simon Hattenstone.

Actor James Franco has delayed the opening of his James Dean-inspired art exhibition in Venice, Italy because he needs more time to "fully realise" his vision for the project.

Silo Theatre's ambitious season opening is an all-too-rare opportunity to see the work of an African-American playwright on the Auckland stage.

It may not be the first place that springs to mind when you're after an art fix, but Waikato is home to two exhibition spaces that will have culture seekers revelling, writes Libby Nicholson-Moon.