Since the iconic riff of Sultans of Swing first captivated the world 46 years ago, Dire Straits has solidified its place in music history. Today, we announce that fans in New Zealand are in for an electrifying treat as The Dire Straits Experience makes its triumphant return this October with their Shiver in the Dark World Tour.
Led by Dire Straits’ own Chris White and featuring the extraordinary talents of singer-guitarist Terence Reis alongside six world-class musicians, The Dire Straits Experience promises an unforgettable concert experience. This exclusive event showcases the band’s greatest hits, transporting audiences back to an era when rock music reigned supreme.
Despite disbanding over 35 years ago, Dire Straits’ influence remains as potent as ever. Their catalogue of legendary tracks continues to inspire new generations of music lovers around the globe. With over 120 million albums sold worldwide, Dire Straits’ music transcends time, resonating deeply with both long-time fans and newcomers alike.
The upcoming concert Shiver in the Dark World Tour is a celebration of Dire Straits’ enduring legacy. From timeless classics like Money for Nothing to the soulful melodies of Brothers in Arms, The Dire Straits Experience promises an evening filled with nostalgia, energy, and pure musical excellence.
Tickets are on sale today for concerts in Christchurch on October 15, Wellington on October 16 and Auckland on October 17, via Ticketek and Ticketmaster.
This ensemble reignites the greatest hits from Mark Knopfler’s platinum catalogue with the breathtaking skill and showmanship of the original 120-million-selling album phenomenon.
The ensemble has been handpicked from the highest echelons of the international touring circuit, with combined experience spanning Paul McCartney, Joe Cocker, Ray Charles, David Bowie, Tina Turner, Rod Stewart, Van Morrison, David Gilmour and Mark Knopfler himself.
“In Terence Reis, I think we may have found the only person on the planet that is able to play and sing like Mark, but maintain his own integrity and identity. I think this is the very essence of why the fans have been so accepting of what we do. They believe in Terence as his own man. They know he is not trying to be Mark. Because of his respect for Mark, Terence is able to perform these songs in a very honest way that allows his energy and talent to come through. This is exactly what allows the performances to feel alive and fresh. Not slavish copies of a bygone time. Without Terence, this would simply not work.”
And so it is that these songs, in all their ambition, grandeur and aching beauty, are once again presented live… for the fans that that have kept them alive. The Dire Straits Experience – bringing back to life, the music of one of the most creative and unique bands in rock music.
“Finally, after the disaster of COVID and the prolonged aftermath of reschedule and delay, I can’t tell you how excited I am that after six LONG YEARS, we will at last be returning with The Dire Straits Experience to play for all of our friends in Australia and New Zealand,” says White.
“It has absolutely made my year that we have been able to make this happen. We have missed you all so much . I have missed you all so much. Can’t wait to be with you again in October!”
White, who has been collaborating with Mark Knopfler on film scores since the early 1980’s, joined Dire Straits in 1985 for the record-breaking Brothers In Arms world tour. This included their performance at Live Aid and later at Nelson Mandela’s 70th Birthday Concert in 1988. He played on Dire Straits’ final album, On Every Street, and took part in the subsequent two-year world tour, which resulted in a live album and the DVD On the Night.
The iconic song Brothers in Arms, with its strong anti-war message, is more relevant today than ever due to the ongoing global conflicts. We invite all fans of Dire Straits’ legacy to join us in celebrating their exceptional music.
Tickets on sale today via Ticketmaster and Ticketek. Prices start at $99.
