Taki Rua Theatre - Breaking Barriers

Throughout the 1980s, humble Wellington venue The New Depot evolved into Taki Rua Theatre, a pioneering kaupapa Māori performing arts organisation. Taki Rua has overcome financial struggles, creative disputes, internal conflicts and the odd quake to become New Zealand's unofficial national Māori theatre. Director Whetū Fala's debut documentary celebrates Taki Rua's artistic legacy, and its plans for the future. In this trailer the theatre's vital contribution to Aotearoa's creative landscape is discussed by actors, writers, directors and kaumatua, including Jim Moriarty, Rena Owen, Jason Te Kare and Keri Kaa.  

Taki Rua was, and continues to be, a place where my voice was valued.

– Actor and playwright Jason Te Kare on Taki Rua

Key Cast & Crew

Briar Grace-Smith

Subject

Tungia Baker

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Nancy Brunning

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Wi Kuki Kaa

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Rena Owen

Subject

Whetū Fala

Director, Writer, Producer