National Dance Company Has A New Home Out West

MEDIA RELEASE 02 February, 2012

National Dance Company Has A New Home Out West

New Zealand's leading Maori Contemporary Dance Company - Atamira Dance Company, is thrilled to have a new home at Corban Estate Arts Centre and is celebrating this move with a performance of 'HOU 2012' on Saturday March 24 at 7pm.

The established company, who just celebrated their 11th Birthday, tour widely throughout the country as well as internationally offering professional dance works inspired by Aotearoa's history, legends and contemporary issues.

"We are passionate about sharing our stories, and asserting the unique and important voice Maori have in New Zealand. We create dance work that reflects these values, and contributes to the collective voice of contemporary Maori art."

Corban Estate Arts Centre will be the Company's new home, and will serve as a central hub, where the creative and administration teams can work side by side. "Corban's is an excellent venue for us as we can rehearse and workshop new work, conduct meetings, and carry out production and office management all on the one site". Moss Patterson, Artistic Director.

Many of the Company's Dancers, and key Contributors are 'Westies', including Moss Patterson (Artistic Director), Louise Potiki-Bryant (Choreographer, AV Desginer, Dancer), Paddy Free (Composer), Vanda Karolckzak (Production Manager, Lighting Designer), Gaby Thomas (Dancer), Zoe Williams (Producer), and Wendy Preston (Board Member).

As well as performing and working on their new and existing performance repertoire, Atamira are involved in education and community projects, and are looking forward to engaging with the vibrant local Arts Community on site and throughout the Waitakere area.

The Company welcomes visitors to their office located in the Corban's Homestead and invites audiences to join them for 'HOU 2012' when three of New Zealand's leading Maori choreographers unveil their new work, the result of a demanding challenge to create a dance piece during a six-week development period.

Moss Patterson (Atamira Dance Company's Artistic Director) is inspired by the traditional art of Moko. Jack Gray is inspired by the unearthing of tribal stories from Mitimiti and Taane Mete has created a solo work based on his Te Arawa family history. As part of the performance Atamira dancers, present two other short works from the company's existing repertoire.

Tickets on sale from iTicket $20/$10 plus booking fees (Ticket includes a glass of wine / juice and catered food).

'HOU 2012' coincides with Waitakere Open Studio weekend and Atamira Dance Company welcomes the public to their open studio to observe the dancers in rehearsal from 11 - 1.pm.
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