BIRD LIKE MEN - TARARUA ENSEMBLE

Bird Like Men is a multimedia performance that brings together the artistry of Ariana Tikao, Ruby Solly, Al Fraser and Phil Boniface with visual artist, Louise Pōtiki Bryant, weaving together sound worlds from both te ao Māori and te ao Pākehā. 

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Drawing inspiration from Māori rock art depictions of bird people at the Maerewhenua site in Otago, from whānau manuscripts of Tikao and from kōrero from Kāi Tahu Whānui, it is a contemplation on migration and travel and the deeply embedded desire that draws us to return to our spiritual homelands.Tararua’s evocative music combines taonga pūoro, waiata, karakia and pūrākau (story) with a strong southern Māori influence, partnered with the western instrumental elements of the cello and double bass.

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