Napier Frivolity Minstrels were formed in 1897 and their first public show was in 1898. The Frivs have the New Zealand record for the longest continuous performances without a break.
They have performed at least one show a year and never went into recess in wartime nor during the 1931 Napier Earthquake. The original format of the show was the first half dedicated to a Minstrel show and then the second half being a pantomime.
Many successful people and performers have had their start with the Frivs. The current focus with the Frivs is encouraging children and youth into theatre with annual shows.
