ORO MĀIA

Poems by an acclaimed American poet get a special te reo Māori treatment at Wellington Jazz Festival. ORO MĀIA blends live music and poetry all performed by wāhine toa . The name ORO MĀIA translates as ‘Still I Rise’. It references a poem by poet, essayist, and civil rights activist Dr Maya Angelou. The performers use spoken word, song, and live music to interpret the poetry. You’ll experience the strength, humour, and wisdom resonating through the words.

Expect powerful performances by artists Maisey Rika, Miriama McDowell, Erena Koopu, Tuakoi Ōhia, and Maarire Brunning-Kouka. This concert features a captivating soundtrack of new music by Maarire Brunning-Kouka (of the band MĀ and the Fly Hunnies). It will interlace contemporary soul, jazz, and funk. This collaboration between artists and artistic disciplines and worlds and worldviews will make for a compelling performance.