Michael James Manaia - New Zealand International Arts Festival ...

History of Michael James Manaia
History
First performed at Downstage in 1991, Michael James Manaia has received much critical acclaim,
completing performance seasons throughout New Zealand and abroad. This story is as relevant
today as when first performed and speaks not only to our identity and history as New Zealanders but
also to the ongoing and widespread issues associated with the war that affects much of the world
we live in. This work has the potential to initiate valuable dialogue and awareness around questions
of war and manhood, doing so through a rich and dynamic performance experience.
The first workshop of Michael James Manaia, facilitated by Playmarket, was held at Tapu Te Ranga
Marae in Island Bay, Wellington, 24-24 October 1990.
Michael James Manaia opened on 15 February 1991 at Downstage Theatre, Wellington. Manaia was
played by Jim Moriarty, and Colin McColl directed.
This production then went on to open at:
The Trustbank Theatre, Dunedin on 5 April 1991 for New Zealand Writers week
The Traverse Theatre, Edinburgh, Scotland on 13 August 1991 for the Edinburgh Festival
Watershed Theatre, Auckland on 24 November 1991
The National Library Theatre, Wellington on 21 March 1992 for the New Zealand Festival of
the Arts
Michael James Manaia is presented by arrangement with Playmarket
New Zealand International Arts Festival