Taane Mete is the first to admit that the television series Fame inspired him to become a dancer. ''Money was scarce when I was growing up so becoming a gang member would have been the easy solution,'' he says. ''Instead I chose to concentrate on dance to gain independence.'' Following
21 years as a performer, the 39-year-old New Lynn resident is currently collaborating with Ann Dewey and Taiaroa Royal to direct Renu O Te Ra. Literally meaning ''the edge of the sun'', Renu O Te Ra has been devised by some of Auckland's most promising young dancers as part of ignite07. Ignite07, programmed and nurtured by The Edge, opens up new pathways for youth to find their voice in the creative arts through workshops, seminars and exhibitions. ''The inaugural show of the developing contemporary dance, Renu O Te Ra explores our relationships in the world we live,'' says Taane. ''It is a reflection of how people see themselves in Auckland, New Zealand, and ultimately in a global perspective.'' Considered one of the country's most versatile dancers, Taane has performed with Footnote Dance Company, Fusion Dance Theatre, Taiao Dance Company Michael Parmenters' Commotion Company and The Royal New Zealand Ballet. He has also appeared on Xena: Warrior Princess and was an extra in Peter Jackson's King Kong. As one of Renu O Te Ra's directors, Taane says, ''I've really enjoyed the development process and it's been amazing working with youth for the first time. Above all, this experience has taught me to be sensitive to the youngsters' ever-changing energy patterns and emotions. ''I hope this is the beginning of a long association with contemporary youth dance work.''
ignite07 workshop of Renu O Te Ra, Great Hall, Auckland Town Hall, May 1, 7. 30pm. Free entry, koha appreciated. It will be staged in its entirety in July.
