Thoroughly Modern Māui

Metro Māori Productions & PANNZ present: Thoroughly Modern Māui
Developed in partnership with Auckland Live. Created with support from Creative New Zealand.

From Auckland's Cabaret Season to Ōtaki... For one night only! If you love musicals, showtunes, glitz, and glamour... You do not want to miss this!

Many moons ago, a superhero of a different kind ruled this side of the Pacific. His name was Māui-Tikitiki-A-Taranga – MĀUI.

A warrior and demigod, his adventures are woven into the fabric of Pacific history. In Aotearoa, this ‘Māori Superman’ was fast, fit, and funny. He was the total package. He slowed the sun, fished up the North Island and brought fire to the world – to name just a few of his feats!

Burgeoning music theatre Rutene Spooner is channelling this Māori hero into a modern-day icon – complete with rhinestones and glitter. This ‘haka-boogie-hori’ will be pulling out all his tricks from the past and reincarnating Māui into a living breathing musical rock star before your very eyes. Featuring charmingly quick-witted songs, hilarious antics and heart-felt story.

"The content and witty presentation of each original waiata is what makes this performance so memorable and unique among the current musical theatre scene of Aotearoa. Following the simple use of a tīpare and wig to transform into his ancestor, Māui, Rūtene launches into song telling of his adventures and thoughts." - Molly Daley 'REVIEW: Thoroughly Modern Māui'

Director - Matariki Whatarau
Dramaturge - Kate Prior & Renee Lyons
Writer/Performer - Rutene Spooner
Music - Te Aihe Butler & Rutene Spooner
Band - Bray Jefferey, Timothy Shacklock, Rhoshill Kishore, Māia Huia
Costume - Tina Thomas
Executive Producer - Metro Māori Productions Ltd
Production Partner - Pilot Productions