Genre: Cabaret

Shel We?

Shel We hero image

Le Moana's Shel We is being presented in Aotearoa as part of PANNZ's touring programme, Tour-Makers.

 

 

 

Creator: Tupua Tigafua
Designers: Lisa Maule and Spencer Earwaker
Featuring: Sean Macdonald, Tupua Tigafua, Chris Ofanoa, Kosta Bogoievski, Andy Faiaogo, Carl Tolentino
Producer: Le Moana

Image credit (hero): Image Credit – Pati Solomona Tyrell
Image credit (production photos): Celia Walmsley - Stagebox Photography

Inspired by American writer Shel Silverstein, Shel We? is an enchanting, playfully intriguing, and visually stunning dance show that can be enjoyed by the whole family and appeals to different generations from all walks of life. Created by Tupua Tigafua a highly accomplished dancer and one of the most ingenious storytellers of his generation.

Shel Silverstein a critically acclaimed writer of children’s books such as Where the Sidewalk Ends, Falling Up and notably The Giving Tree. He also wrote iconic ballads such as Sylvia’s Mother for Doctor Hook and A Boy Named Sue for Johnny Cash.

Shel’s off beat style and brilliant use of metaphorical imagery in his poetry and illustrations is what inspires Tupua’s choreography - ultimately, delivering a tribute to his parents, his family and the environment that has inspired him over the years.

"Humorous, wonderous, playful, polished, sharp, well timed, joyful, thoughtful, simple yet intricately layered." - Theatreview

Thoroughly Modern Māui

Metro Māori Productions Ltd's Thoroughly Modern Māui will be presented across Aotearoa in September/October 2022 as part of PANNZ's touring programme, Tour-Makers. Tour dates and regions will be announced soon.

 

 

 

Director - Matariki Whatarau
Dramaturge - Kate Prior & Renee Lyons
Writer/Performer - Rutene Spooner
Music - Te Aihe Butler & Rutene Spooner
Costume - Tina Thomas
Executive Producer - Metro Māori Productions Ltd
Production Partner - Pilot Productions

Image credit (hero): Ivan Muller
Image credit (production photos): Jack Barry, 2113 Creative

Many moons ago, a superhero of a different kind ruled this side of the Pacific. His name was Māui-Tikitiki-A-Taranga – MĀUI.

A warrior and demigod, his adventures are woven into the fabric of Pacific history. In Aotearoa, this ‘Māori Superman’ was fast, fit, and funny. He was the total package. He slowed the sun, fished up the North Island and brought fire to the world – to name just a few of his feats!

Burgeoning music theatre star Rutene Spooner is channelling this Māori hero into a modern-day icon – complete with rhinestones and glitter. This ‘haka-boogie-hori’ will be pulling out all his tricks from the past and reincarnating Māui into a living breathing musical rock star before your very eyes. Featuring charmingly quick-witted songs, hilarious antics and heart-felt storytelling.

 

Developed in partnership with Auckland Live.

"A highly talented and hilarious performer... the whanaungatanga
between Spooner and his band radiates authenticity and joy." - Theatrescenes