The World's First Lovers
Written by Jessica Latton (Kāi Tahu, Waitaha)
A heady mix of uniquely Kāi Tahu narrative and a pulsating, smoke-filled, ‘80s Ōtepoti.
Forged in Te Wai Pounamu and revealed in an ethereal world of theatre, dance and sound, this new work from Jessica Latton (Kāi Tahu, Waitaha), pays homage to Hineahuone…and reminds us all how deeply we belong.
“Being Indigenous in a colonised country has been an intrepid navigation. Being an Indigenous woman in a colonised patriarchy has been a minefield; soothing and cajoling those who have power, apologising always for speaking, standing, existing. Living in the cracks to survive it. Not any more. We refuse. We make space in the world for ourselves, and so for our children. We are the uri of Rangi and Papa. We walk in the light on the earth that loves us.” - Metiria Turei (Development Creative 2021/2022)
“This work has the potential to become a defining piece of Ōtepoti and Kāi Tahu theatre.”
Content Warning
PG Use of haze, strobe and low level lighting. References to suicide, violence and trauma.
There is a complete lock out for this show.
Creative Team
Writer: Jessica Latton
Director: Juanita Hepi
Producer: H-J Kilkelly
Cast: Jessica Latton, Nick Tipa, Grace Turipa, Manu Syme-Hepi and Catherine Duval
Taoka Puoro: Ben Whitaker
Set Design: Mark McEntyre and Tony De Goldi (GOM Arts Collective)
Costume Design: Amber Bridgman
Lighting Design: Marty Roberts
Sound Design - Tristan Dingemans
Production Manager: Sahara Pohatu-Trow
