Michael Jones: From Town Crier to Director’s Chair, a Te Puke Legend Returns to the Stage
Michael Jones, affectionately known as Te Puke’s former town crier, modestly dismisses the idea of being a local icon. “I’m just a Te Puke boy who over the years has been involved in a lot around town,” he shares. While many recognize him for his distinctive calls, Jones’s extensive contributions also span key roles in the kiwifruit industry, town promotions, and an incredible 65-year involvement with Te Puke Repertory.
Born in Te Puke in 1948, Jones’s life has been intrinsically linked to theater. His parents were instrumental in founding the Te Puke Repertory Society in 1952. “Apparently I was there when it all started—it began in our home,” he grins, reflecting on the society’s humble beginnings.
Over the decades, Jones, now the society’s patron, has embraced every imaginable theatrical role, from romantic leads to even a “lifeless corpse.” This year marks his return to the director’s chair for his eleventh major production: Call Girls, a hilarious comedy by New Zealand playwright James Carrick.
“I’m delighted Te Puke Repertory chose this hilarious comedy for our July production at Litt Park Theatre,” he says. “Call Girls is a brilliant, uplifting story set in a small retirement home that’s under threat from a developer and a burgeoning bureaucracy. But the women who live there use their wit and cunning to fight back.” The play features a vibrant cast, including a pompous councillor named Leonard and an inept reporter named Glen.
Jones describes the play as “fast-paced, packed with sharp one-liners, some adult humour, with a bunch of fascinating characters that the audience will be won over by. It’s shaping up to be a very entertaining night out.” He’s quick to praise his production team, particularly his assistant, Pam Chapman, and the dedicated support crew. “They are creating a memorable production. Be in quick because tickets are selling fast.”
A Life Dedicated to Te Puke and the Arts
Jones’s journey in theater began when he returned to Te Puke at age 20 and was “dragged into” a production by his parents’ friends. “Initially to do sound effects—and then suddenly I was on stage!” Since then, he has directed ten major productions, penned original pieces for short play festivals, and even created a local revue titled The First and Final Te Puke Review. Despite what he humorously calls “a total shambles,” the revue was a sellout hit. “It was about Te Puke—that was the point,” he laughs. “It had all the local characters in it. People loved it.”
Beyond the footlights, Jones dedicated 12 years to public service, serving as a Western Bay of Plenty District Councillor for the Te Puke Ward from 1998 until his retirement in 2010. “I’ve always been a strong supporter of Te Puke and was grateful for the support I received,” he notes.
The Voice of Te Puke: From Crier to Community Pillar
Jones is also widely recognized for his three-decade tenure as Te Puke’s town crier, a role he embraced in the mid-1990s while serving as deputy of the Te Puke Promotion Society. “We needed someone to lead the Christmas parade, and I thought, why not a town crier to tell people what’s going on—and how to behave,” he recalls, explaining the quirky origin of his iconic role. He officially retired from the position last year due to health reasons, passing the bell to new town crier Glen Ward.
Call Girls features a cast of 15, centered around four feisty women residents and their manager, Sarah. “There are some very experienced actors in the mix, and it will be entertaining for everyone,” Jones assures.
Don’t miss Call Girls running from July 15 to 26 at Litt Park Theatre, Te Puke. Tickets are available now and selling fast!
