After seven sold out performances of The Way of the Raukura in 2020, and regular requests for us to perform again, it became clear that taking things further would require starting our own theatre company.
In 2021, Sarah Tahere and Steve Worsley founded Toitoi Collective with the dream of bringing Aotearoa New Zealand’s past and present to life, through music and drama. We write our own musicals, and our focus is on stories we ought to know and reflect on, that impact the way we live today.
‘Toitoi’ means to inspire. And our catchphrase, ‘Mā Whero, Mā Pango ka oti ai te mahi’ means, ‘With black and red together, the work gets done’. It carries the idea that by uniting together we can achieve something that would otherwise be impossible. The working together of Māori and Pākehā to create The Way of the Raukura, as a show for both Māori and Pākehā audiences, was immensely important to us, and has made our work feel unique. In a similar way our second show, Three Forty One, involves a working together of Pacifica and Palagi cast and crew, to tell a story of global relevance, with particular outworking in the Pacific.
It has been amazing to work with so many incredibly talented singer/actor/dancers. And we have also thoroughly enjoyed helping young people find confidence and develop their talent. All along we have felt part of something bigger than ourselves. Ultimately we are thankful to our Creator for drawing us into this journey. We’re excited for all the new opportunities that await!
Toitoi Collective Theatre 