KA MUA KA MURI

“…high-energy, emotionally resonant exploration of Mātauranga Māori…blending cultural storytelling with dynamic choreography”

Cilla Brown, Theatreview

Derived from and inspired by, the whakatauki Kia whakatōmuri te haere whakamua, KA MUA KA MURI relates to Māori perspectives of time where the past, present and the future are intertwined, offering a contemporary dance experience that explores both the significance of whakapapa while defining new aspirations for the future.

Remain by Eddie Elliott (Ngāti Maniapoto) explores the continuity and vitality of whakapapa, tikanga, and a deep connection to Tūpuna, emphasizing the importance of preserving these cultural foundations to honor the past, understand the present, and shape a promising future for rangatahi.

Whakamaheahea by Bianca Hyslop (Te Arawa) showcases urban Māori experiences by transcending loss-based narratives, embracing multifaceted identities that encompass divine, ancestral, and human elements, and weaving stories of empowerment, transformation, and resilience to inspire a brighter collective future. 

By intertwining these perspectives, this collaboration offers a holistic view of the continuum of cultural identity. Hyslop’s focus on the future provides a lens through which to envision how the values, customs, and knowledge preserved in Elliott’s work will be carried forward and adapted by future generations. Similarly, Elliott’s exploration of the past grounds Hyslop’s forward-looking perspective, highlighting the deep roots and enduring relevance of te ira tangata.

Bound together by a stellar design team, a cast of dynamic Māori dance artists and the high-quality production values that Atamira is known for, this double bill, full of energy and heart, invites audiences to experience a transformative hour where tradition collides with innovation, and past, present, and future converge on stage.

“…culturally profound and visually captivating.”

Cilla Brown, Theatreview

“…slick, extremely contemporary and entirely captivating.”

Malcolm Calder, NZ Arts Review

“Having each made 2 significant works as independent choreographers over the last 6 years, it has been very exciting to welcome Bianca and Eddie back into the whare of Atamira to work with our collaborative and unique dancers. 
Ka Mua Ka Muri has truly been an inspiring unfolding of creativity manifested by our skilled dance, design and technical artists and we hope our audiences enjoy an invigorating and inspiring arts experience”

Executive Director Marama Lloydd 
(Ngāpuhi, Ngāti Kahu, Te Rarawa) 

"Through dance, we express the heartbeat of our Māori souls, a living and moving language that honours our ancestors and celebrates our collective identity. To watch us dance is to hear the whispers of our past intertwining with our present, weaving our heritage into the fabric of the future. We share our art to not only preserve our legacy but also in hope that it inspires, connects, and uplifts our whānau and community.”


Artistic Manager Kelly Nash 
(Ngāi te Rangi, Ngāpuhi)