Presented by Ka Papahana Hana Keaka Hawai‘i – University of Hawai‘i at Mānoa
As part of Kia Mau Festival’s He Ngaru Nui programme, Puana, takes its first international steps bringing the Aotearoa premiere from Mānoa, O‘ahu-a-Lua, Ka Pae ‘Āina o Hawai‘i.
Puana is rooted in the exploration of the spiritual and artistic connections that we share with our ancestors. Music is a powerful modality of communication that speaks to the heart, mind, and soul. In this mo‘olelo (story), the mele (songs) reveal previously unknown facets of a grandfather’s journey to his mo‘opuna (grandchild). The mo‘opuna’s discovery of their ancestor’s past enriches their modern day endeavors.
This large scale work also reflects on the accomplishments of haku mele (composers) and pu‘ukani (musicians) who were raised in that practice and those who traveled the world to share Hawaiian music abroad. Puana celebrates our musical heritage and legacy, reminding us that poetic compositions from the past serve as a foundation and guideposts for our contemporary artistic journeys.
E pua ana ka puana a e mau ho‘i ka puana a e lohe ‘ia.
An Aotearoa New Zealand Premiere, Puana is presented by Ka Papahana Hana Keaka Hawai‘i – University of Hawai‘i at Mānoa.
He Ngaru Nui is more than just a collection of performances—it is a bold statement about the value and significance of Indigenous narratives. These shows take stories that sometimes feel small, intimate, or unheard, and amplify them on the grand stages they deserve. This programming strand honours the storytelling traditions of Māori, Pasifika and global indigenous cultures, while pushing the boundaries of contemporary performance. It’s about taking stories from our communities and sharing them with the world in a way that is both respectful and revolutionary.
Creative Credits
Playwright & Director Tammy Hailiʻōpua Baker (Kanaka Maoli, Kamawaehuelani)
Playwright Kaipulaumakaniolono Baker (Kanaka Maoli, O‘ahu-a-Lua)
Composer R. Keawe Lopes, Jr. (Kanaka Maoli, O‘ahu-a-Lua)
Composer and Arrangements Zachary Alakaʻi Lum (Kanaka Maoli, O‘ahu-a-Lua)
Arrangements of E Hui Ai Kāua Tawaroa Kawana (Rangitāne, Wairarapa)
Choreographer / Kumu Hula Tracie Kaʻōnohilani Lopes (Kanaka Maoli, O‘ahu-a-Lua)
Costume Design Kāneikoliakawahineika‘iukapuomua Baker (Kanaka Maoli, O‘ahu-a-Lua) & Maile Speetjens (Kalāheo, Kaua‘i)
Scenic Design Christopher Kekoa Patrinos (Kanaka Maoli, O‘ahu-a-Lua)
Properties Design Antonio Hernandez (Arizona)
Lighting & Projection Design Noelani Montas (Kanaka Maoli, Kaleponi)
Learn More About Ka Papahana Hana Keaka Hawai‘i – University of Hawai‘i at Mānoa:
Ka Papahana Hana Keaka Hawai‘i was established in 2014. The program includes courses on the history of theatre in Hawai‘i, the study and analysis of indigenous Hawaiian theatre, and training in both traditional and contemporary Hawaiian performance forms. Original hana keaka productions reflect and honor the language, traditions, history and values of Kānaka Maoli. A primary focus of the program is to grow practitioners of hana keaka; actors, playwrights, directors, designers, technicians, and patrons in order to grow the profession of hana keaka. Through the vision and intentions of Ka Hālau Hanakeaka, a Hawaiian-medium theatre troupe founded by Hailiʻōpua and Kaliko Baker, coupled with the curriculum and productions of the Hawaiian Theatre Program, our hui continues to serve the community and build capacity in the discipline of Hawaiian theatre. Ua ao Hawaiʻi, ke ʻōlino nei.
Puana is the eighth original hana keaka of Ka Papahana Hana Keaka Hawai‘i.
Learn More About Kia Mau Festival
Tihei mauri ora!
Ka mihi ki ngā uri o te whenua o Te Upoko o te ika a Māui.
E ngā haukāinga o te rohe nei, Te Ātiawa, Ngāti Toa Rangatira, Ngāti Raukawa ki te Tonga, Taranaki Whānui,
Tēnā koutou, tēnā koutou, tēnā koutou katoa!
Kia Mau Festival is at the forefront of contemporary Tāngata Whenua, Tāngata Moana, and Indigenous theatre and dance in Aotearoa and beyond. We are innovators—pushing boundaries, redefining forms, and forging new paths with creative risk-taking at every step. Right here, right now, we bring together local, national, and international artists in Te Whanganui-a-Tara. We find the intersection where our stories intertwine, creating an experience that is uniquely ‘local’ yet unparalleled in Pōneke throughout the year.
Kia Mau offers a truly unique experience, led by Tāngata Whenua, Tāngata Moana, and Indigenous voices at every level—from our leadership to our artists and audiences. Unlike any other festival, we are not just a platform for presentations; we are a hub for kōrero and whanaungatanga.
Our festival serves as a whare where Tāngata Whenua, Tāngata Moana, and Indigenous artists and their communities are supported throughout the creation, development, and staging of their works. By providing a nurturing environment, we empower individual artists, strengthen their capabilities, and enrich the arts sector, celebrating the diversity and talent of Tāngata Whenua, Tāngata Moana, and Indigenous artists.
With our deep understanding of the arts sector and strong relationships with artists from emerging talents to established figures, we identify those at pivotal moments in their careers or with significant projects. By including them in the Kia Mau Festival programme, we support them in taking strategic steps forward. This approach has allowed Kia Mau Festival to make a substantial impact on numerous artists and, consequently, shape the contemporary arts landscape.
Returning to Te Upoko o te Ika a Māui, Aotearoa New Zealand from 30 May – 14 June 2025. Nau mai, haramai! Nau mai, hoki mai ki te hui ahurei o Kia Mau!
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