FOOTPRINTS / TAPUWAE
Premiered University Theatre, November 2001
Production Credits

Picture
In the 19th century Richard Wagner tried to support a German revolution or regeneration by going back to ancient myths in his musical dramas. His return to the native German roots can be compared with the present New Zealand return to its own native Maori myths and cultural roots. In Footprints/Tapuwae these two 'returns' are juxtaposed in making an experimental, bicultural music theatre performance. Wagner's 'Ring of the Nibelung', which provides the material for the Pakeha side of the production, ends in the twilight of the old mythical world; in this production the Maori mythical elements lead to a rebirth of the Maori heritage and strength.
  • Act I: Tranquility of Nature - River of Peace
  • Act II: Possession of Nature - Gold & Goldmine
  • Act III: Siegfried Fights Dragon with His Song
  • Act IV: Possession By Love
  • Act V: Twilight of the Gods - River of Fire
  • Act I: Waiata Aroha (Love Song) from Te Kahu (Fairy Princess) to Tukaha (Warrior Chief)
  • Act II: Haka-Tuhaka Challenges Taniwha and Gets Eaten
  • Act III: Waiata-Tangi - Lament for Tuhaka
  • Act IV: Waiata Harikoa Oriori - Instilling of Values and Establishing Identity of Kaitaniwha
  • Act V: Haka - Kaitaniwha Kills Taniwha

Reviews

'Powerful and Edgy' theatre
Barry Grant, The Star, 21 November 2001
    
Experimental musical drama excites imagination
Alan Scott, The Press, 19 November 2001
   
   Footprints/Tapuwae... Return of the Native
Stephen Austin, Theatre News Aug/Sept 2001


Publicity

Maori meets Wagner
Christopher Moore, The Press

Te Puna Toi performing arts initiative under way
Chronicle - Nov 29, 2001