Te Pou Theatre — Attraction in Henderson-Massey

Te Pou theatre is a lot of things to a lot of people. Of course you can go see a show there, and they range in style and type. You may have noticed the name and the line, “the home of Maori theatre”, not every show is in Te Reo and doesn’t need to be to embody the philosophy of the home of Maori theatre. This speaks to a broader philosophy of inclusivity, community and nurturing people. As an actor I have watched many a professional show here, attended rehearsals, performed here and relaxed with friends like any other punter while other events were put on here. It’s a hub of activity and it strikes a balance of warmth and professionalism and community in the arts world that is seldom seen at other places. The actors, writers, producers, creatives and geniuses that were responsible for its creation have made something more than the sum of their parts, they have created a legacy in the professional theatre scene that will span time and go down in history as the moment when art and people of all kinds came together in the community and everyone was the better for it. That is incredible stewardship. Many of the actors involved in this theatre are professionally trained to a high level (think 3 years at a performing arts school or have history equating to a similar hard earned credibility), the interior is homely, welcoming and many productions allow for a glass of something to drink and some nibbles at intermission. You should note that the entrance is not on Portage road, you go round the back using the side road for...

Me He Korokoro Tūī

I am in total awe 😲 of the vocal and instrumental talents of these brilliant artists 👏

Aptly named "Te Manu Waiata" (The Songbird) 🐦 Te Pou Theatre at Corbans Estate in Henderson hosted Kākahu Coughlan, a student of opera 🎶 to perform and raise support for her classical musical education 📖

Kākahu was joined by her peers 👥👥 and mentors for a stunning performance of classic music ❤️

During intermission we were offered a spread of seasonal fruit 🍓 cheese 🧀and drinks 🥂where we had the opportunity to meet the artists.

Corbons Estate provided the ideal 😊 setting for a brilliant afternoon.

Main performer: Kākahu Coughlan

Soprano: Grace McCarthy Sinclair Maria Gow Ariane Cordeiro

Alto: Gianna Cordeiro Aura Sanders

Piano: Jonathan Dunlop

Violoncello: Rupert Archer

Harp: Gracie...

We watched the Haka Party Incident. Definitely food for thought, performed in a really emotive manner, the actors conveyed the depth of their emotions through words, song, and dance. The power of the performance was highlighted by the absence of props... the performers were all that was needed to convey that powerful message of the need for awareness, respect, and inclusivity for indigenous people especially on their own land and on issues related to their own culture. It was a story of raising your voice to be heard - and they did raise their voices...