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Michael James Manaia by John Broughton premiered at Downstage in 1991 and was swiftly recognised as a landmark work in New Zealand theatre history and went on to tour internationally.

Michael James Manaia by John Broughton premiered at Downstage in 1991 and was swiftly recognised as a landmark work in New Zealand theatre history and went on to tour internationally.

Twenty-one years later Taki Rua revived the play with a brand-new production which drew rave reviews at this year’s New Zealand International Arts Festival. History repeated itself still further when the production was invited to participate in the Melbourne International Arts Festival, recognised as one of the major multi-arts festivals in the world.

On Saturday 1 September Taki Rua is presenting two tour fundraiser performances of Michael James Manaia at Downstage (3pm & 7.30pm), to raise money towards freight, airfares and accommodation. Tickets are $30 ($25 concession) and are available from Downstage or 801-6946.

Michael James Manaia is a tour-de-force one man show with Te Kohe Tuhaka playing the title character in the current production. Telling the story of a Vietnam war veteran with both Maori and Pakeha ancestry the play was received well by critics with Tuhaka’s powerful and subtle performance drawing particular praise. Comments included:

'Thrillingly addictive viewing. Tuhaka's is a captivating, bold and fearless performance.’ – The New Zealand Herald (NZ)

‘A confident, dynamic and fully charged performance that is as physical and energetic as you'll ever see.’ – The Dominion Post (NZ)

‘(Michael James Mania) packs a mighty wallop.’ – Theatreview

‘Tuhaka offers us a superb, gutsy, unforgettable experience.’ – Capital Times (NZ)

Mary Lou Jelbart Artistic Director, fortyfivedownstairs said:

“Michael James Manaia is one of the most truthfully written and powerfully performed theatre works I have seen in many years.  We are absolutely delighted to be presenting this outstanding production by Taki Rua at the prestigious Melbourne Festival”

About the opportunity, Taki Rua Tumuaki/Artistic Director James Ashcroft said:

“It is fantastic to have the quality of the production recognised internationally, and to have the opportunity to represent New Zealand at such a high-profile international festival. Touring a production – even a one-man show – is expensive. Our tour fundraiser performance will make a big difference to our company in terms of making the most of this exciting opportunity.”

Nathaniel Lees – Director

Nathaniel has been an actor and director for almost 30 years. In this time he has acted in many productions both here in Aotearoa and internationally. As an award winning director, he has directed productions throughout Aotearoa and the Pacific. His work in the film and television industry is well documented, from numerous NZ television series and productions to blockbusters such as The Matrix Trilogy and 30 Days of Night. Nathaniel currently works as an acting tutor at Toi Whakaari: NZ Drama School.

Te Kohe Tuhaka – Performer
Ngati Porou

Graduate of Toi Whakaari: NZ Drama School. Te Kohe has worked extensively as an actor and presenter in theatre, film and television. Recent film and television highlights include Billy, What Really Happened at Waitangi, Go Girls and Eruption. Stage credits include Silo Theatre’s acclaimed production of The Brother Size, Maui: One Man Against the Gods and the award winning Paua by SEEyD Theatre.  

Media Release: Downstage