Meremere is a profound and wonderfully crafted autobiographical work based on the life experiences of the award-winning performer Rodney Bell | Ngāti Maniapoto.
Meremere Brings to you the incredible journey and story of Rodney Bell (Ngāti Maniapoto) from an international career in integrated dance, through years of homelessness in America, to returning home to Te Kuiti, Aotearoa. The work powerfully layers movement, projected imagery and documentary footage to bring his stories to life in an hour-long work. It is a beautiful, and intimate performance experience that invites the audience inside this unique and inspirational memoir.
This multimedia performance piece has been developed in collaboration with director Malia Johnston’s performance design company Movement of the Human (MOTH). Meremere includes AV by award-winning designer Rowan Pierce, and live music from the renowned composer Eden Mulholland, bringing this insightful, surprising and very personal story to life.
A critically acclaimed dancer and performer, Rodney is renowned for his physically integrated performance. In 2007, Rodney joined AXIS Dance Company (USA) as principal dancer for five years. Before his return home, Rodney experienced a period of homelessness on the streets of San Francisco - a life-changing experience that inspired the creation of Meremere.
Each performance will be sign language interpreted and audio described.
This show may contain: haze, some flickering / lights, and strong language. This show will also be filmed.
Sponsors: Creative New Zealand
Director: Malia Johnston Producer: Romola Lang Performer: Rodney Bell | Ngāti Maniapoto Live Musician: Eden Mulholland | Ngāti Uepohatu Audio Visual Design: Rowan Pierce Audio Visual Operator: Zane Allen Lighting Design: Ruby Reihana-Wilson | Ngā Puhi Lighting Operator: Elekis Poblete Teirney
New Zealand Dance Company, New Zealand String Quartet, and Chamber Music New Zealand have collaborated to develop a new work 100 Winds | Taupō Hau Rau, choreographed by NZDC Artistic Director Moss Te Ururangi Patterson (Ngāti Tūwharetoa).
