Te Ope o Rehua
Contemporary Performing Arts
This committee was formed in 1988 to promote the growth and development of contemporary Maori dance and drama.
Committee members:
Stephen Bradshaw - Pouwhakahaere (Auckland)
Terri Crawford (Hamilton)
Initially a funding scheme helped raise the profile of the committee. The committee hosted workshops on the traditional performing arts. These proved popular with tertiary students who wanted access to this training.
In 1998 the 'National Hui on Contemporary Maori Performing Arts' at Tuhono Marae in Porirua, featured artists presenting papers and case studies towards the development of a strategy for the performing arts. Speakers included Tama Huata, Wi Kuki Kaa, Keri Kaa, Piri Sciascia, , Hone Kouka, Jim Moriarty and Roma Potiki.
The issue of a base for Maori dance/theatre was discussed. Taki Rua Theatre in Wellington had developed a reputation for encouraging the mounting of Maori performance. It is continues to be a strong producer and tour agency for theatre.
Another issue was the revival of a full time Maori Contemporary Dance Company. Tai Ao was the most recent full-time company. The establishment of Ahi Wai, Atamira, Mika Torotoro and Merenia Gray Dance Company showed promise. There were concerns for the sustainability of Maori dance choreographers and dancers. Work in mainstream companies was available and few Maori choreographers were developing work for production. The increasing number of Maori performing arts tutors in the tertiary sector is a promising area for development.
Kapa Haka continues to provide the principal area of performing arts for Maori. The contemporary choreographic elements filtering into this area are promising.
Vision:
That drama and dance is central to contemporary Māori arts
Purpose:
- To maintain and develop the networks related to drama and dance
- Identify and nurture pathways to provide professional careers
- Promote quality and integral performances with an unique point of difference
- Facilitate crossovers from drama and dance to other art form for artists and audiences through the networks of Toi Māori Aotearoa
Deliverables
- Develop choreographers and evaluate level of capability
- Develop international networks
- Free the art of dance for Māori
- Collate information, evaluate and disperse
Specific Objectives
- Update database of practitioners
- Produce events as creative and financial promotional avenues
- Develop joint ventures and partnerships with other Toi Māori art form committees as well as other drama and dance organisations
- Grow funding base through subscriptions and projects
Strategies
- Aitanga Descendance Maori Contemporary dance national summit
- Stephen supporting industry people through advice and assistance
- Funding sponsorship and grants
- Australian & Canada connections developed
- Displays & presentations at Māori MARKet & other industry related events