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