Maori Dance Company To Perform Thursday

By Vanessa Wolf

Courtesy photo

The New Zealand Herald knows a thing or two about a thing or two.

Presumably.

So when the New Zealand Herald declares a dance company Auckland’s “hotspot of contemporary dance,” you best listen.

That stated, Atamira Dance Company, Auckland’s “hotspot of contemporary dance,” will be performing KAHA, a program of short works in MACC’s Castle Theater on Thursday at 7:30 p.m.

KAHA is a dance program celebrating the strength and pride of Maori contemporary culture, featuring a collection of short works choreographed by the members of Atamira.

Selections include:

• Moko –explores the art of body tattoo in Maori culture;
• Haka – a contemporary work fusing traditional movement and modern dance;
• Te Paki – refers to the tradition of watching and listening to waves to find internal rhythms;
• Mitimiti – an edgy piece depicting isolation and evolution in a small community;
• Paarua – an energized look at sporting culture;
• Indigenarchy – highlights the public perception of the indigenous person;
• Pou Rakau – an exciting new twist on the art;
• Poi E – the full ensemble version of the popular dance as seen in the hit movie Boy.

Courtesy photo.

Founded in 2000 and based in Auckland, Atamira Dance Company is New Zealand’s leading Māori contemporary dance company, a diverse collective with tribal connections from around Aotearoa. Atamira strives for innovation and experimentation while respecting and drawing from their cultural heritage.

The choreographers and dancers of Atamira strive to express their experience of being of an indigenous people in a contemporary world by creating innovative works that reflect Aotearoa ‘s history, legends, societal issues, and whakapapa (genealogy/tribal links).

Their mission is their message: “We are passionate about sharing our stories, and asserting the unique and important voice Māori have in New Zealand. We create dance work that reflects these values, and contributes to the collective voice of contemporary Māori art.”

Prior to the concert, there will be a free half-hour talk by Artistic Director Moss Patterson on the topic of “The Mana of Dance” from 6:00 – 6:30 p.m.

The KAHA starts at 7:30 p.m.

Tickets for Atamira are $15, $20 and $35. Admission is half price for children 12 and younger.

Have an idea for a fun or thought-provoking story or topic? Get in touch: we want to hear from you. -Vanessa (@mauinow.com)