Maori singer/songwriters Maisey Rika, Rob Ruha and Seth Haapu are joined by Horomona Horo, Aotearoa's leading practitioner in taonga puoro (traditional Maori instruments). They will be creating music that fuses cultural roots, memorable tunes and honest, gripping lyrics on the Kahilu Theatre stage Sunday, January 21st at 4 pm and again on Monday, January 22nd at 7 pm.
Each of these artists have deep roots in their Maori culture and are superb musicians, revered for their artistry and Maori activism. They are at the forefront of a new generation of indigenous performers, who have been commissioned by the World of Music, Arts and Dance (WOMAD) to create new works together, highlighting their native language, te reo Maori. WOMAD is an internationally recognized organization that aims to promote cross-cultural awareness and tolerance. Aotearoa’s Finest have all performed together at festivals and events—however, this project takes their collaboration to the next level.