Ecz-asth-perated Fever

Absurd Degree Productions presents 'Ecz-asth-perated Fever' - set to debut at the 2026 Wellington Fringe Festival from 24th-28th February in the Dome at BATS Theatre.

'Ecz-asth-perated Fever' is an original play written by an emerging absurdist playwright Christian Heart. The story takes place in a world where diseases are humanoid and work for a criminal organisation entitled ‘The Monetisation of Earthly Diseases Incorporated’ or ‘Med Inc.’ for short. Founded by the Black Death upon his retirement from freelance work in 1353, the dystopian organisation (inspired by Orwell’s 1984) provides a valuable setting for critiquing the fascist ideals disguised within a capitalist system. Through comedic prose, and an abundance of itching, sneezing and coughing, the play tackles relevant political themes with a primary focus on the malevolence of healthcare pricing/funding. 

Here at Absurd Degree Productions, our kaupapa involves active collaboration between the plethora of emerging creatives that have signed onto the project. We want to collectively create an artistic, absurd and politically charged play that’s like nothing Fringe has ever seen before. There are too many students who have allowed their health to deteriorate due to the fear of financial ruin that Aotearoa’s healthcare system imposes. The entirety of the Absurd Degree Productions team is made up of current and recently-graduated students who have either experienced exorbitant healthcare pricing or are close with someone who has. Together, we aim to send a message that Aotearoa’s healthcare should be a priority!