July 25, 2018
New home in west for Maori theatre
Auckland Maori theatre hub Te Pou is taking up a new residency at Henderson’s Corban Estate Arts Centre, giving it a chance to reach a larger audience.
The move from its current New Lynn base will start with the third annual Koanga Festival in September, two weeks of performances, showcases, workshops, readings and social events.
Other arts companies based at the Corban Estate include Atamira Dance Company and Red Leap Theatre.
Kaihautu Amber Curreen says the move allows Te Pou to continue to be part of the core theatre fabric of Tamaki Makaurau in a more permanent and fit-for-purpose home, without the stomping from the basketball court or the cacophony from the tap dancing classes on the floor above.
The Koanga Festival will include Whakarongo Mai, two evenings of live readings of new works by four Maori playwright on September 15 and 16.
Other events include Tuhi Tika, a wananga for Maori playwrights and the world premiere of Albert Belz’ award-winning Cradle Song, which will open September 5 in a production directed by Tainui Tukiwaho.
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