WHENUA

The New Zealand Dance Company (NZDC) showcases unique creative voices from Aotearoa New Zealand in this stunning double bill WHENUA.

Commissioned to make a new work for this programme, choreographer Malia Johnston will collaborate with celebrated indigenous artist Rodney Bell (Ngāti Maniapoto) to create Imprint.

This new work will be paired with Eddie Elliott’s (Ngāti Maniapoto) Uku - Behind the Canvas, which premiered to rave reviews in 2022 and will make for a distinct yet complimentary programme.

Drawing from nature, these incredible artists explore and investigate our relationship to land and the natural environments and elements with which we coexist.

Malia and Rodney are innovative dance makers known for their explorative visions that awaken our imaginations, vibrate our senses and leave audiences enthralled. Working alongside Aotearoa artists including Eden Mulholland and Rowan Pierce, the sound and digital design will provide a landscape that will bring the space to life.

Eddie’s strong voice for tangata whenua (Māori) is expressed through confronting storytelling is at its most raw. Using elements rooted in te ao Māori (the Māori world) and kapa haka (traditional Māori dance), Eddie’s works are alive with cultural heritage and visceral personal experiences transmitted authentically and deeply through his movement vocabulary.

In WHENUA, these captivating artists will weave stories that reflect humanity and showcase unique voices that are the essence of Aotearoa New Zealand.