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MATAATUA

In collaboration with Te Wharekura o Mauao in Tauranga Moana, MATAATUA is a devised, bilingual theatre extravaganza that features singing, dance, haka and authentic storytelling and text (monologue and poetry), encouraging audiences to have faith in ourselves, find courage in the face of adversity, and take hold of the wisdom bestowed on us by those who came before.

FAITH. COURAGE. WISDOM.

Directed and designed by Jason Te Mete of Tuatara Collective, collaborating with a team of highly experienced kaiako from Te Wharekura o Mauao, MATAATUA is part of the Creatives in Schools programme through the Ministry of Education.

 

The mighty waka Mataatua carried our tīpuna (ancestors) across the Pacific, a life-changing journey to find new lands, and to find themselves. Weaved amongst the voyaging tales are local stories about our more recent tīpuna who found themselves in situations that required them to have faith in themselves and call upon their ancestors for strength and guidance. In sharing their stories we explore the challenges that they had to overcome to survive, and find similarities to the challenges that our rangatahi face today.

 

These stories are based on fact, some perhaps exaggerated for theatrical effect. Aroha and care is given to ensure these stories are developed and shared with respect. Some include the Māori Wars, Pukehinahina, Public Works Act, kaitiakitanga, religious pursuits and tackle issues pertinent to Tauranga Moana such as climate change, local politics and the renaissance of Te Reo Māori.

 

Scattered with Aotearoa songs by prominent Māori artists performed live by students (with a full band), dance elements including contemporary fused with hip-hop, traditional Pasifika Siva, Fa’ataupati and ura, as well as poi, mau rakau/taiaha and haka.

Baycourt Addison Theatre
24th - 27th May 2022
 
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