Forbidden Love – the tale of Oshichi

In 2020, local writer and actor Helen Moulder set up Shopfront Theatre on Collingwood St, where she developed her play The Bicycle and the Butcher’s Daughter. Helen held open rehearsals where people could get see the play in development – it was a great success. Soon, Japanese master puppeteer Akiko Miyamoto was also using the same space for Pop-Up Little Japan, with puppet shows and exhibitions. Fast forward to 2026, and Helen and Akiko needed somewhere to rehearse their new collaborative project Forbidden Love – the tale of Oshichi as part of Nelson Fringe 2026. The play uses Bunraku puppets to tell the tragic story of young love.

We knew just the spot for a rehearsal space! The old Christian Science building (next to The Free House) has a space just perfect for open rehearsals. The play was a massive success with three sold out performances – with Theatreview heralding the play for its “heart-breaking emotions, comedic delight and a sense of awe”.

Helen and Akiko are now working on the next steps for the play – we’ll definitely let you know when it does a return season in Nelson.

And better still, there are plans afoot for an exciting ongoing project to use the space.

Massive thanks to Wakatu Inc., who own the Christian Science building.