The Prime TV presenter says she's looking forward to acting as MC for part of the show, to be held at the Aotea Centre in Auckland on December 1st, World AIDS Day. “I’ll just be there to introduce some of the most stunning creatures you’ll ever see, and I’m fully expecting to be completely overshadowed by all of them!” she laughs.
Ali says she feels it’s important to continue raising awareness about HIV and AIDS in a time when it seems to have slipped off the radar: “It may not be seen as a ‘hot’ issue because of the new treatments that are available, but AIDS is something that hasn’t gone away or disappeared – it’s still a serious life-threatening illness.”
“Queen of the Whole Universe” director Jonathan Smith says there have been four choreographers hard at work on the extravagant show, which promises to be an evening of glamour and high camp. “The opening routine is going to blow people’s socks off – 34 girls, four muscle boys, and contestants as far away as Burkina Faso,” he says.
While light-hearted, the show also contains a strong acknowledgement to World AIDS Day, with the inclusion of the New Zealand Quilt Project. “This show is about reflection, not just on those we have lost but also literally – some of these costumes could light up the National Grid,” Smith continues.
“Queen of the Whole Universe” takes place 8pm this Friday December 1st at the ASB Theatre, Aotea Centre, THE EDGE. Tickets are available from Ticketek on (09) 307-5000, and all seat prices include an invitation to the post-event party. Profits from the show will be donated to the New Zealand AIDS Foundation for its education and prevention work, and support for all New Zealanders living with HIV.
