Capping Show is the longest-running student comedy show in the world, with a 130-year legacy as a cornerstone of Otago student culture. Blending satire, physical and musical comedy, ​ Capping Show presents a hilarious snapshot of Dunedin student culture. Come join us for an evening of shameless absurdity like none other, with performances from the Sextet, Sexytet, Selwyn Ballet, and our very own live band.

The theme for Capping Show 2025 is "How to Train Your Fresher". The story follows the adventures of Fuckup, a hapless young breather struggling meet the expectations of the scarfie elite. Amongst the freshers’ relentless reign of terror on Castle Street, Fuckup finds an unlikely ally in Useless, a fresher he was supposed to haze. Together, they uncover the truth about freshers, and learn that there is more to their chaos than meets the eye. Packed with absurd comedy, over-the-top characters, and a uniquely Dunedin twist, this year’s Capping Show takes a hilarious journey through the mayhem of Otago student life, and provides a surprisingly refreshing take on the traditions that define Dunedin student culture.

What to expect:

Capping Show is a comedic revue, blending formats and covering a wide range of topics relating to student life, politics, and beyond. The main theme "How To Train Your Fresher" provides a rough structure for the show which makes up around a third of the total show time. Interlaced between main sketch segments are a range of side sketches, and musical parody performances, including a live band, and three historic performing groups: The Sextet, The Sexytet & The Selwyn Ballet. Capping is an extremely energetic and fast paced show, and nothing is off limits - expect the unexpected. You can see clips from previous years show on our social channels @cappingshow

When & Where:

📅 May 10th, 13th, 14th, 15th, 16th, 17th, 21st, 22nd & 23rd

🕒 Doors open 7pm. Show starts 7.15pm.

📍 143 Union St E, Dunedin Central, University of Otago College of Education Auditorium

What previous audiences have to say about the show:

"I was confused about what I was watching. It was very good. "

"loved every minute"

"an incredible event - it was rude, politically incorrect, funny but it was never offensive or disgusting. Hugely enjoyable"

"Very funny and great event"

"far too many anal sex jokes, it ruined out date night" (paraphrased, but this was an actual complaint about the 2023 show, which we think is pretty funny)