Pasifika and Māori playwright, Poe Tiare Tararo, has written a new play, Raru e Maruakaītā, inspired by the lack of theatre about the Cook Islands and its people.
Based on a traditional Cook Islands fable, the play tells the story of a brother and sister caught in a struggle with the gods, warning of the dangers of greed and ambition.
Poe Tiare, who has a Masters of Fine Arts, is dedicated to preserving Cook Islands’ culture through storytelling.
The play, which she also stars in alongside fellow Pacific performer Roy Iro, will debut in Auckland at Te Pou Theatre in November.
Directed by Tainui Tukiwaho, Raru e Maruakaītā blends indigenous storytelling with innovative theatre to explore family dynamics in Pacific culture.
The show will run from 1 – 2 November at Te Pou Theatre in Henderson, Auckland. For more details, visit www.tepoutheatre.nz.
