Rauru: Māori and Pasifika Stories Take Centre Stage

Rauru: Māori and Pasifika Stories Take Centre Stage

Newly established theatre company Cove Theatre is bringing real stories to the stage in their inaugural production- Rauru. A short debut season running at The Meteor Theatre November 21-23, Rauru is a devised piece that explores concepts of family, identity and loss through the story of Ruby, Ata, and their ailing grandmother.

Written by Cian Gardner and Karina Nathan with direction by Kathleen Christian, Rauru promises to be a work “that really hits home”.

“It’s a story told with gentleness, humour and compassion about people you will recognise, maybe even within yourself.” Says director Kathleen Christian.

Set in the family home as its occupants are preparing for a Tangi, interpersonal relationships are explored as family secrets are uncovered, and old wounds are opened while the women straddle dual cultures and battle ghosts from their past.

“The relationship between these three Māori women is fraught, honest, loving and real.” Says Christian, “None of them perfect, all very different, but all indelibly connected to each other.”

“Connection is definitely one of the main themes explored within the piece” says Cove Theatre Creative Director Cian Gardner. The word ‘Rauru’ refers to “a form of weaving pattern where three ropes are twined into one, typically a spiral pattern. It is also the Māori word for umbilical cord, specifically the part connected to the mother.”

An authentic and inclusive story Rauru is the first of many Māori and Pasifika stories to be retold onstage by Cove Theatre. The groups aim is to create a sense of belonging for performers and audience members and empower stories that are not always told.

Rauru is running at The Meteor Theatre November 21-23 at 7.30pm. Tickets are $17 General Admission and $12 Concession (Gold Card and Student ID). More information and tickets can be found at www.themeteor.co.nz.

© Scoop Media