Te Tangi a Te Tūī: By Tainui Tukiwaho and Amber Curreen

In this stunning circus piece, we experience the story of Aotahi who lives peacefully on her ancestral land, in Aotearoa (New Zealand), near a forest shrouded in mystery. Within its depths lurk the Patupaiarehe, supernatural fairy-like beings, and Kōiriiri, the Bird Man—a creature bound by an ancient curse. When Aotahi gives birth to her son, Piri, the first male in their family line for generations, his arrival awakens a long-dormant curse.

As Piri grows up, he becomes the focus of two powerful beings. Te Pua o Te Reinga, a Patupaiarehe mourning her lost lover, wants to use Piri as a vessel to resurrect his spirit, stolen from her when Māori were displaced from their lands. At the same time, Kōiriiri seeks revenge on Piri’s ancestor, who imprisoned him, cut out his tongue, and bound him to the land with a priest’s spirit. Kōiriiri plans to make Piri take his place, freeing him from his torment.

In this allegorical tale, both beings represent opposing oppressive forces of colonial impact on a family, culture and language, over multiple generations.

As the magical beings intensify their pursuits, each shares their story, hoping to win Piri over to their cause. From the shadows, Aotahi watches helplessly, knowing that the moment will come when her son must make a choice—a decision that could cost them both their lives.

What will Piri choose—and how will his ancestors' song end?

Don’t miss Te Tangi a Te Tūī, a breathtaking allegorical tale of love, hope, and legacy from Aotearoa/New Zealand. Performed in Te Reo Māori, the Polynesian language of the Māori people, this visually stunning production immerses spectators in the awe-inspiring artistry of cirque theatre for an unforgettable experience.