HENARE
Henare is a story inspired by renowned Ngāti Porou composer Henare Waitoa. A play created by two of his mokopuna – award winning playwright Hōhepa Waitoa and directed by award winning artist Hone Kouka.
Set in the village of Tikitiki, a story performed by Henare’s mokopuna, siblings Hōhepa and Sheree. The two are of the many who were born and raised away from the East Coast. Although they never met their koroua – both multi-talented musicians – Sheree and Hōhepa wonder who and how Henare was. The play Henare blends whaikorero, theatre and waiata, including waiata composed by grandfather and grandson – Henare Waitoa and Hōhepa Waitoa.
This is Henare.
Henare premiered at Rāhui Marae, Tikitiki, as part of Te Tairāwhiti Arts Festival in 2019. Presented in partnership with creative cousin company Mahi Mahi Productions.
Images by Strike Photography