HBAF 2022 - Thoroughly Modern Māui

METRO MĀORI PRODUCTIONS & PANNZ PRESENT Thoroughly Modern Māui

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. Don’t miss the charmingly quick-witted songs, hilarious antics and heart-felt storytelling from this cultural hero and trickster shape shifter.

Developed in partnership with Auckland Live.

Director - Matariki Whatarau
Dramaturge - Kate Prior & Renee Lyons
Writer/Performer - Rutene Spooner
Music - Te Aihe Butler & Rutene Spooner
Band - Bray Jefferey, Timothy Shacklock, Rhoshill Kishore, Māia Huia
Costume - Tina Thomas
Executive Producer - Metro Māori Productions Ltd
Production Partner - Pilot Productions

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

"Audiences will have the pleasure of learning and laughing while being exposed to a personal insight into the life of this highly talented and hilarious performer." - Theatrescenes