61-69 Abel Smith St
Wellington, New Zealand 6010
office@kiamaufestival.org
HIKULE’O
HIKULE’O is a work that celebrates the stories and mana of the paramount chieftess of Tonga’s underworld, Pulotu. Hikule’o was responsible for harvesting, fertility and had supreme power over her brothers’ children.
While this work aims at reclaiming and reconnecting with ancient knowledge, the work also recreates ancient sounds and movements.
The work features 2 parts, which brings together ancient sounds of ‘Otuhaka, Me’etu’upaki, chants as well as modern acapella singing. The work also weaves together ancient and modern Tongan choreography and dances as well as spoken words and the recreation of old chants and scales.
My passion for preserving our culture is immeasurable. Our stories, our music, our dance and language are things that occupy my thinking and imagination a lot. There are no words that can encompass this. I wish to continue to create platforms and places where the knowledge, stories and history can be protected and stored.
Creative Credits
Artistic Director: Sisi’uno Helu
Choreography: Sisi’uno Helu and Daniel Mateo
Music: Sisi’uno Helu and Daniel Mateo
Costume: Virginia Helu
Cast:
Sisi’uno Helu
Tamia Mahe
Mele Taufa Naulu
Clive Ellwood
Molonai T makalio
Presented in partnership with Pacific Dance Festival
Dates
13-14 June 2023
6.30pm
Venue
Te Auaha
Tapere Nui
65 Dixon Street,
Te Aro,
Wellington
www.teauahaevents.com
Tickets
Adults $30
Concession $25
Students $20
Learn More About the Collective
The group Tautahi, was founded in Sydney, Australia and aimed at telling stories of ancient Gods and Goddesses through music, poetry and movement.
Tautahi’s artistic director, Sisi’uno Helu has been a choreographer and musician for almost 30 years and has toured internationally.
The group brings together versatile dancers, poets and musicians of First Nations, Tongan, Samoan, Fijian and
European heritage.
