In a collision of ancient and contemporary stories, Moe Miti erupts onto the stage and pushes theatrical boundaries, exploring Pasifika identity through choreography, indigenous instrumentation, evocative text, and cutting-edge technology.
Through choreography, indigenous instrumentation, evocative text, and cutting-edge technology, Moe Miti erupts onto the stage. In an ode to the power of storytelling, three generations of Pasifika women attempt to rewrite the future by contending with the past. In the shifting space between waking and sleep, ancient lineages take shape in the darkness.
Pepe, a young woman born in New Zealand, confronts a severance from both her mother Valu and her language and culture. Her land and lineage are on the tip of her tongue, but Valu leaves her mute as she vies for centre stage. When their ancestor Aiga emerges in a dreamscape, and refuses to be ignored, ancient and contemporary identities converge in a collision of intergenerational reconciliation and transformation. Origin stories of cruelty and courage crawl into consciousness.
As plumes of smoke, beams of electric blue light, and spirits appear and recede into the darkness, ancient and contemporary stories collide, pushing theatrical boundaries. Through a uniquely Pasifika lens, this production explores universal themes of family, identity, migration, and the quest for connection. Moe Miti is a means to reclaim identity, honour heritage, and forge a path towards healing.
Presented By:
Red Leap Theatre
Cast: Katerina Fatupaito
Ma'aola Faasavala
Malama Tila
Creative Team: Director - Katrina George AV/Spatial Design - Owen McCarthy Lighting Design - Jane Hakaraia Costume Design - Tori Manley-Tapu Musical Composers - Samara Alofa and Hannah Lynch Dramaturg - Anna Marbrook Producer - Jessica Underwood Varma
Sponsors and Acknowledgements:
Creative New Zealand
Foundation North
Centre for Pacific Languages
Ministry for Pacific Peoples
Pacific Development and Conservation Trust
Chisholm Whitney Charitable Trust
Pacific Dance New Zealand
Image credit:
Featuring - Katerina Fatupaito
Photography/Design - Pati Tyrell
Audience warnings:
Contains haze, strobe effects, themes of emotional abuse and horror-genre spirit images.
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