Performance poet Grace Taylor has created a boldly experimental fusion of theatre and verse that offers a fresh perspective on the sprawling contrasts of Auckland City.
Opening with an impassioned declaration of independence, the show takes us on a poetic journey into an unseen city that reveals its secrets through intensely personal stories, seasoned with down-to-earth humour and unexpected beauty.
An assortment of sharply drawn characters step out of the poems and are given a life of their own by the three-person cast.
Gaby Solomona captures the staunch posture of a South Auckland teenager, glaring out from the shadow of her hoodie before opening like a flower to speak of the pain of abandonment and the consolation in trying to forge a better path for her child.
With a deftly handled role change she also delivers a blistering satire on the gushing enthusiasm with which well-heeled arts organisations patronise the raw talent of Pacific Island youth.
