AK03: Awhi Tapu at the Regent Theatre

By STUART YOUNG

Taki Rua's powerful, moving production of Albert Belz' Awhi Tapu reconfirms that the Wellington-based company generates some of Aotearoa's most vital theatre. Although the venue exemplifies Auckland's desperate need for adequate theatre spaces, the production works well in the decommissioned Regent in the St James complex.

Awhi Tapu portrays four young people trying to salvage their lives and a blighted community in the Urewera.

Their forestry village has become a casualty of ecological enlightenment. Belz shrewdly draws on the history and mythological associations of the territory to introduce into the play an epic dimension and fantastical elements.

In her imagination Girl Girl (Fiona Collins) embarks on a journey that amusingly, and frighteningly, echoes The Wizard of Oz, while Wendyl (John Katipa) experiences visions of redemption that recall the Tuhoe prophet Rua Kenana.

Belz weaves the different elements of the play with great assurance, and it builds impressively in emotional power.

Considerable humour is generated by Sonny's (Taungaroa Emile) attempts to package his story as a Hollywood screenplay starring Denzel Washington.

However, like the mists closing in over the mountains, the mood gets darker: when Wendyl's vision is realised, it is in unforeseen, tragic circumstances.

Toni De Goldi's set and Lisa Maule's lighting create both the requisite epic quality and intimacy.

A huge backdrop reminiscent of McCahon alludes to Te Kooti and Rua. Raised platforms on the large, wooden stage and beautifully modulated lighting effects serve to focus the space for particular scenes.

The production is directed by the team responsible for The Songmaker's Chair at the Maidment, Nathaniel Lees and Nancy Brunning, who appreciate that this is an actor's play. Four performers play several roles with admirable flair and wit.

Rajeev Varma is especially versatile, and hilarious as Hempman (aka the Strawman from Oz). The male actors need only to refine their vocal projection for the acoustic.

In many ways Awhi Tapu belongs to the three male friends, Wendyl, Sonny and Casper, but, as with so much Maori drama, it is the woman who carries the burden of the drama. There are just two more performances of this play for AK03. See it.

Herald Feature: Auckland Festival AK03

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