For one night only, WORD transforms Tūranga to bring to life the story of Tāwhaki, which is woven into the building itself: a tale of mana and tapu, lightning and thunder, intrigue, revenge – and the odd bawdy joke. Using the spectacular central staircase as the stage, with audiences ranged around the balconies on all sides,Tāwhaki will fly you to the heavens in pursuit of matauraka, the knowledge of the gods.
The show is created by artistic director Juanita Hepi (Kāi Tahu, Ngāti Mutunga, Ngā Puhi, Ngāti Wai), narrated by Corban Henare Te Aika (Ngāi Tahu), and features composition and waiata by taonga puoro storytellers Ariana Tikao (Kāi Tahu) and Mahina-Ina Kingi-Kaui (Kai Tahu, Kati Mamoe, Ngati Porou, Te Atihaunui a Pāpārangi), with collaboration from master storyteller Joseph Hullen (Ngāi Tūāhuriri / Ngāti Hinematua). This is your chance to hear a uniquely Murihiku Ngāi Tahu telling of a story that is well over 1000 years old.
Please note that while some seats are available, most audience members will be standing for 30 minutes. First in, first served – there are limited numbers.
With support from the Ministry for Culture and Heritage, Christchurch City Libraries, and Te Rūnanga o Ngāi Tahu.
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