Join us on Sunday 22 November 2026 for an intimate night of original songwriting, featuring five artists bringing their own perspectives, stories, and sounds to the stage. From cinematic indie-folk and atmospheric pop to witty, confessional folk and heartfelt singer-songwriter performances, this showcase is an opportunity to discover local talent and experience the stories behind the songs.
Whether you’re a lover of thoughtful lyrics, beautiful melodies, or music that makes you feel something, come along for an evening of connection, creativity, and original music in a welcoming live music setting.
Featuring:
Clara van Wel
Clara van Wel is a nationally recognised musician, comedian, and writer whose witty, thoughtful storytelling has captivated audiences for more than a decade. Moving effortlessly between music, comedy, and writing, Clara brings a distinctive theatrical flair to the intimacy of folk songwriting. With dynamic performances, reflective lyrics, and a playful sense of humour, their songs offer a fresh and engaging take on the art of storytelling.
Ollie Howlett
Hailing from the beautiful East Coast of Aotearoa, Ollie Howlett is an indie-folk singer-songwriter weaving heartfelt stories with driving guitar and melodic fingerstyle. Drawing inspiration from artists including Benjamin Dakota Rogers, Bon Iver, and The Dreggs, Ollie creates music with a genuine, down-to-earth warmth. His songs invite listeners into a world of honest reflection, memorable melodies, and heartfelt storytelling.
Sophie Gibson
Originally from Tauranga and now based in Auckland, Sophie Gibson is a singer-songwriter known for her raw vulnerability and distinctive vocal style. Her upcoming conceptual album traces her journey through grief, with each song reflecting on a year since the loss of her brother in 2015. Earlier this year, Sophie was named a finalist in the MLT Country Music Songwriting Awards for Cherry Blossom, a song exploring coming of age while navigating grief. Through deeply personal songwriting, Sophie creates music that connects through honesty, tenderness, and the shared experiences of being human.
Tebsin
Tebsin is the solo project of Rotorua-born, Auckland-based musician April Nisbet, creating moody, cinematic pop shaped by vulnerability, atmosphere, and emotional honesty. After a decade fronting pop-punk band False Heights, Tebsin has embraced a more intimate sound, allowing her voice and deeply personal songwriting to take centre stage. Exploring themes of identity, loss, transition, and connection, her immersive performances offer a space to feel understood, less alone, and fully present in the music.
Xix Hearty
Xix Hearty is a passionate songwriter whose music comes straight from the heart. “Xix” is an acronym for musics, while “Hearty” reflects his deep love for music, performing, and expressing what the heart feels.
His original songs are inspired by his journey through life, capturing its highs and lows, sorrows and joys, moments of upliftment, and lessons learned along the way. Blending heartfelt emotions with poetic storytelling, Xix creates music that shares meaningful experiences and aims to inspire listeners around the world.
