For the first time Whangarei Girls' High School's year 13 drama students are bringing back their graduation show, Waiora by Hone Kouka, for a second season.
A group of Whangarei students hope their school show will create a stronger understanding of Maori culture and colonisation while also providing a platform for people to discuss depression.
For the first time Whangarei Girls' High School's Year 13 drama students are bringing back their graduation show Waiora, by Hone Kouka, for a second season.
The story is based in the 1960s and follows a Maori family who move away from their home town Waiora to the new Pakeha growing world in the South Island. It explores the spiritual and emotional consequences of the move which includes the loss of identity.
The first shows, performed in May, were so popular they decided to do it again.
Drama teacher and director, William Walker, said it was "phenomenal".
"We had blow all bookings to start with, we filled out opening night, and people couldn't get in the last two nights," he said.
Whangarei Girls' High School is bringing back hit show Waiora. Photo/Supplied
The cast comprises 14 Year 13 drama students, two Year 12 students, and kapa haka performers from Whangarei Boys' High School.
While the story is set in the 1960s, the themes explored are relevant in today's society. Phoenix Karaitiana plays Rongo who is struggling with depression.
"It wasn't all humour...It's something people don't like to talk about so we've decided to use Waiora as a platform for mental health," Miss Karaitiana said.
Local kaumatua Hohepa Rudolph will bless the first show and dedicate it to mental health.
The students said they had become aware of depression and suicide affecting young people in the community and realised their show made it easier to talk about those issues.
"We didn't really think about that side of the issue that much in the first play. It just was happening so much and we just realised our show connected with so many," said Hana Gilbert, who plays Boyboy.
Meg Robinson, who plays Steve, Phoenix Karaitiana, who plays Rongo, and Hana Gilbert, who plays Boyboy. Photo/Michael Cunningham
Meg Robinson, who plays Steve the only Pakeha male in the story, said she hoped the play would also educate people about Maori culture.
"I hope people have more understanding of Maori culture and colonisation. I still think there is inequality for Maori and to change that would be good."
Six of the students have started theatre company Wahine Works for the school's leavers so they can continue making theatre even after graduation.
Waiora, which is packed full of waiata, haka, humour, and emotion, will play in the school theatre Wednesday, December 6 to Saturday, December 9 at 7pm and Sunday, December 10 at 2pm. Phone 09 430 4460 to book.
