Formed in 2007, Õkāreka was established to fuse contemporary dance with indigenous Māori themes and other genres to create authentic, diverse works. Led by senior performer Taiaroa Royal, Okareka has become one of New Zealand’s most sought after and prolific dance companies.
Õkāreka holds its provenance close to its heart. Through choreography, set design, and costume, the company strives to tell bold, spiritual stories that are of and from New Zealand. Through careful collaboration, the company seeks to extend its creativity and its influence by engaging experienced artists from around the Globe – the sole driver – to create evocative, beautiful dance works that tell a story.
Õkāreka is a company guided by Māori beliefs. These beliefs are brought to its work and its audiences.
The next 5 years are very exciting for Õkāreka as it continues to grow and develop both creatively and strategically in areas of business, education and repertoire.