Meremere

Meremere is a unique autobiographical performance from the critically acclaimed dancer, Rodney Bell | Ngāti Maniapoto. Collaborating with award-winning company, Movement of the Human, Rodney and the artistic team have created an extraordinary work of art where design, AV and lighting play as significant a role as story-telling, music and dance.

Meremere was inspired by Rodney’s extraordinary life and stories. The performance takes the audience on a journey from his life on the streets of San Francisco, to performing with acclaimed dance companies, to his homecoming and reconnection with whānau and whenua in Aotearoa, New Zealand.

Wherever it has been performed, Meremere has delighted its audiences. The work premiered to rave reviews during its 2018 North Island tour, claiming awards for design,direction, performance and music and further entranced audiences across the South Island in 2019. This is a compelling and profoundly moving performance delivered by an exceptional artist who has responded to extraordinary life challenges with strength and artistry. Meremere features live music by the equally acclaimed musician Eden Mulholland, and in 2021 his brother Jolyon joins the team.

“This autobiographical, multi-disciplinary and life-affirming survival story drew the cheering opening night audience to its feet.” - Dominion Post

“Profound and wonderfully crafted” - Theatreview