New Zealand’s ‘Happiness’ Musical Series Debuts with Unique Charm

New Zealand has embraced its first musical television series, titled Happiness, which premiered on HBO Max on November 4, 2025. This six-episode comedy distinguishes itself from typical fare through original songs and a heartfelt narrative, combining elements reminiscent of popular series like Schitt’s Creek and Glee.

The series opens with a somewhat dated airport flashmob set to the Backstreet Boys’ iconic hit, “Everybody (Backstreet’s Back).” While this introduction may seem cliché, it quickly becomes evident that Happiness is much sharper and more innovative than its opening suggests. The show features quirky, original numbers drawn from The Trojan Horse, a fictional musical performed by the amateur theatre group Pizazz. The plot centers on a strained mother-son relationship, exploring themes of distance and reconciliation through the lens of amateur theatre.

The protagonist, Charlie, played by Harry McNaughton, returns to his hometown of Tauranga from New York. Initially, he views the city as a “parochial swamp,” only coming back to renew his visa before directing rehearsals with renowned actress Sally Field for a Broadway revival of *Cats*. Despite his snide remarks, Charlie is drawn back into the world of Pizazz and its first original musical, written by high school music teacher Gloria, portrayed by Marshayla Christie.

As the narrative unfolds, Charlie’s character evolves. McNaughton effectively portrays Charlie’s pretentiousness, allowing viewers to empathize with his struggles. The series captures moments of genuine connection, revealing the softer side of Charlie as he witnesses the talents of local teens during rehearsals.

Dynamic Characters and Musical Numbers

Happiness showcases a variety of characters, each embodying familiar archetypes found in amateur theatre. Among them are the domineering director, the delusional leading lady Jessie Lawrence, and the reluctant yet talented performer, a sparkie played by Henry Auva’a. The show boasts a tight script, with each episode lasting only 20 minutes, ensuring that the pacing remains brisk and engaging.

The musical numbers, typically one or two per episode, highlight the cast’s vocal talents and the show’s commitment to original content. With influences from contemporary musicals, including the emotional ballads of Dear Evan Hansen and the comedic stylings of Six, the performances offer a rich tapestry of musical styles. Charlie frequently critiques the songs, humorously asserting they are not “Broadway-ready,” adding another layer of character development.

While Rebecca Gibney is likely the most recognizable face for international audiences, her character Gaye is somewhat underutilised. Gaye, portrayed as a cheerful people’s pleaser, often sets aside her needs for the sake of others. Her character reaches a breaking point later in the series, prompting viewers to wish for her to take center stage sooner. This narrative choice hints at potential developments in a second season, which is already in the works.

A Promising Start for a New Genre

Happiness is an ambitious entry into the musical television genre, showcasing the unique charm of New Zealand culture. It captures the essence of amateur theatre, where passionate individuals often embody clichés, yet the series embraces these stereotypes with warmth and humor.

As the first musical series of its kind in New Zealand, Happiness is set to resonate with audiences for its relatable themes and engaging characters. With the promise of more to come, viewers can look forward to the continued exploration of Charlie’s journey and the vibrant world of Pizazz.