The Aotearoans
New Zealand or Aotearoa? Or both? Or nah?
From Īhaka Martyn, a recipient of Kia Mau Festival’s inaugural innovative new initiative, He Toi Puaki, we present the World Premiere Season of The Aotearoans.
Five DIVERSE New Zealanders.
One simple question.
A nation’s identity at stake.
Brought together to decide once and for all—New Zealand or Aotearoa?—this unlikely panel of personalities quickly discovers that nothing about this debate is simple. As opinions clash and tensions rise, the group’s differences become more of a hindrance than a help. But as they struggle to reach a consensus, something far bigger looms over their discussion.
Because the elephant in the room? It might not be an elephant at all… or even from this world.
A sharp, thought-provoking, and unexpectedly otherworldly exploration of identity, belonging, and the forces that shape us—don’t miss this bold new work.
He Toi Puaki – Seed Commissions, is a significant evolution in Kia Mau’s commitment to nurturing indigenous voices and fostering homegrown talent amongst our arts whānau here in Te Upoko o te Ika a Māui.
He Toi Puaki embodies the essence of its name by serving as a platform for emerging artists to blossom from seeds of creativity into fully realised productions. This commissioning opportunity is set to redefine the landscape of indigenous performance art in Aotearoa.
Among the inaugural recipients of the He Toi Puaki commission are Emma Katene, Īhaka Martyn, and the dynamic partnership known as CONJAH, forged between Jahra Wasasala and Ooshcon.
“I am hoping to make people really interrogate what “New Zealand” or “Aotearoa” means to them… Most of all I hope to get out what is inside, namely a great sense of hōhā about this post-colonial nightmare, and its massive identity crisis.” - Īhaka Martyn
Recipient of Kia Mau’s He Toi Puaki Commission
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