FIRST ANNUAL NEW YORK / PACIFIC ISLAND TIME SHOWCASE

Our world is constantly changing and evolving around us. One of out joys at Te Ao Mana is to be able to experiment and also allow our creativity to evolve simultaneously. We firmly believe that for us and our cultural heritage to survive through ever changing times, we must also evolve as keepers, stewards, and practitioners of our cultural heritage. Our modes of expression may change and develop and our foundations are firmly rooted.

We were delighted when the 92Y and NYPIT showcase asked us to submit a proposal for the inaugural event, with several other Hawaiian and Pacific Island choreographers. Dabbing in contemporary forms amalgamated with traditional movements can be both inspiring and challenging. This work Te Aho Matamua a Te Ta’ata (The First Breath of Man), is a creation story. It is based on the creation of the man from two perspectives, the Tahitian version of Ta’aroa from Rumia, and a Hawaiian perspective with Kāne, Kanaloa, and Ku. Blood, dirt, and word were part of the first creation. We collaborated with Pūoro Jerome Kavanagh and his ethereal Maori sounds, Te Orokohanga O Te Ao, utilizing numerous instruments that require breath to produce sound. Together it is an entrancing and peaceful depiction.