A bit of velvet, a bit of rebellion, and a whole lot of heart.

Velvet Rebels is a celebration of the music and style our kaumātua (elders) grew up with — that golden era of Māori showbands, Rat Pack swagger, and smooth jazz lounge vibes. But this isn’t a throwback — it’s a modern take. We’ve curated the classic style with fresh eyes, keeping the humour, the glamour, and the music we know and love, while making sure the conversation feels current.

I made this show because I wanted to create a space where our old people could sit alongside their tamariki (children) and mokopuna (grandchildren) — laughing, singing along, and sharing in the experience together. It’s an intergenerational meeting point, where the timeless charm of the past meets today’s voice and values.

It’s stylish, it’s cheeky, it’s warm — and it’s made with aroha (love).

- Rutene Spooner