This two person show Poropiti (“Prophet”) is a series of vignettes traversing different points in Māori history; from utopian visions of a pre-European Aotearoa, to the emergence of the Māori prophetic movements, including that of T W Ratana; to meditations on current day capitalist dystopia. The show incorporates physical-theatre, choreography and live music, and brings innovative theatre practitioner Tola Newbery, and the acclaimed voice and musical presence of Mara TK into challenging multi-disciplinary roles on stage; roles that evoke the surreal and avant-garde as well as deep aspects from the their own indigenous history. It’s a meditation on Māori history, hope and spirituality. Produced by Gareth Farry at Sugarlicks.
“Told in movement, song, sound and theatrical lyricism, it is a beautiful surrealist duet.” Tama Waipara, Auckland Festival.
“Poropiti is imbued with a profound sense of grace and dignity, … a fascinating and hypnotic show” Erin Harrington – Theatreview.
Poropiti is a meeting point of Tola Newbery’s innovative physical theatre and Mara TK’s deep and soulful musical explorations. Told in movement, song, sound and theatrical lyricism, it is a beautiful surrealist duet.
