Sustaining Māori indigenous performative knowledge: Engaging practices that foster ihi within a contemporary dance theatre context

Abstract

In this article I explore the creative potential of Māori indigenous performative knowledge such as ihi. My research investigated personal experiences as a performer and choreographer during the creative process, exploring and engaging with practices that foster ihi within contemporary performance. I draw on practice-led research methods in the choreographic and performance process of creating a duet called Ngā Whaiaipo o te Roto - Lovers of the Lake, performed in the Auckland Tempo Dance Festival (Williams, 2012). By exploring Māori concepts of performance within contemporary dance practices, I explored the potential to sustain indigenous knowledge, meanings and connections in how Māori cultural concepts are transferred into a theatre context.