Popoto Whakamiharo Awe-inspiring Maui's Dolphin
Original thirty minute performance about the local rare Popoto
(Maui's dolphin popn 110) and the threats it faces from invasive research, set nets and seabed sandmining. Choreography by Ardre Foote featured audience participation, including an option to address the governement with written message on special postcards.

Since February 2005, troupe gave twelve performances at NZ events including Soundsplash Eco-Reggae (Whaingaroa Raglan) WOMAD 2005 (Taranaki) Jambalaya (Rotorua) Xtreme Waste Recycle Raft Race (Whaingaroa Raglan). Over a thousand written messages were collected from audiences.

The final performance on 25 June 2005 at Te Papa National Museum, Wellington included the presentation of cards to Minister of Conservation along with supporting statements from WWF-NZ, ECO, KASM, Waitakere Ranges Protection Society& Dr. Liz Slooten, marine mammal biologist with University of Otago

Popoto/Maui's dolphin
• WWF-NZ Maui's dolphin webpages
• whale & dolphin artwork by Ros Rossellini (sales contribute to conservation efforts)
• "Beyond the Kelp" DVD about NZ dolphin
• DVD about set nets & trawling
• video of performance

Soul Speed
• History of troupe's first season & road tour
• Poster for Wellington performance (PDF)
• Next project:
Te Karanga Tohora: The Call of the Whale The whales call throughout the ocean --
what if we responded? contact for more info

Storyline

The Pukaea (traditional Maori trumpet) calls. The Popoto

Taonga Puoro (traditional Maori instruments) carry us into the underwater world of the Popoto who offer literal “strings of connection” in the shape of soft muslin cords to members of the audience.

Two Scientists are among the audience. They decide on a special course of action. To do this, they toss away their cords of connection. This creates a tremour throughout the scene. The music crashes into discord. The cords become a net which comes down and traps one of the Popoto.

Now the Scientists act. They use computer and satellite technology to tag the Popoto. This invasive procedure involves drilling holes in the fin of Popoto

As cello and flute sing out grief, Tangaroa lifts the net. The Popoto are released. They come to the aid of the injured one, who returns to Tangaroa for healing. Finally the Popoto discards the tagging device.

The Scientists are left with nothing. The “Empauaed Woman” (wearing a special harakeke and paua dress) takes action – together with Tangaroa, they cut each cord that the audience members are holding. Audience members are left with a tag that says “it's in your hands – don't let go!”