Cook Islands Pedagogy – Learning through Ura
Ura is the traditional dance of the Cook Islands. It is told that the expressive communication methodology of ura is closely connected to ‘ori, Tahitian dance, and hula, Hawaiian dance. Distinguished by the drumming, ura is an ancient form of storytelling and intergenerational knowledge sharing practice, through movement, costume and lyrical poetry. This workshop is a practical introduction to the performing art of ura and will teach basic technique and choreography. Her work through community learning, is founded on ancestral knowledge that connects back to Polynesia, contributing to building a body of knowledge in Pacific arts. Kaupapa Pasifika is embedded in the ethos and epistemology of ura. Te Hau will reflect on her creative process, her teaching practice, her pedagogies as a Creative Director and teacher of traditional and contemporary Cook Islands and Tahitian dance, and her passion to use dance and movement as a storytelling empowerment tool in communities. Please bring a pareu (sarong/lavalava), a water bottle and sweat towel with you (it will get hot from moving).

Te Hau Winitana (Ngāti Ruapani, Te Ati Awa, Kuki ‘Āirani) Creative Director, Īnano Dance
Te Hau is a performing artist, dance teacher and choreographer of Pacific dance based in Lower Hutt. A graduate of Whitireia Performing Arts, Te Hau is a Director and co-founder of Pacifit Group Ltd and Creative Director of Īnano Dance Company and School. Participation in international projects including performing and choreographic work with Tawata Productions and Le Moana touring Europe, Canada, America and Asia. An award winning dancer of Ori Tahiti, first time and first ever competitor from Aotearoa to receive second place in 2017 and 2018 at the Heiva San Diego (Ori Tahiti) competition. In 2018 to mark the 125th anniversary of women’s suffrage in New Zealand, Te Hau was recognised by the Petone Settlers Museum Te Whare Whakāro o Pito-one, Whakatū Wāhine – Women Here and Now commemoration for fostering cultural identity through language and dance.