On a moderately chilled Tuesday winter night, two beautiful dance works immersed me in artistry in the Pacific Dance Festival’s Double bill: ANGA + POU.

The performance is as inspiring as it is beautiful to watch: the dancers glide across the stage full energy with a story to tell that you just can’t turn away from. The choreography assists the tune and feel of the music while the open and detailed movement, vocal projection and spatial awareness draws you in. Both the AUE Company and the Manu Collective dancers bring their full character, heritage and personalities to the stage. 

Xavier Muao Breed’s POU draws you in with breathtakingly fluid movements which broadcast skillful musicality. The performance builds on a journey through discovery, vulnerability, mystery and personality. Each piece is distinct and you are truly engaged in not only the emotion but the Pasifika base in movement which is expertly crafted contemporary styles culminating both story and entertainment. The dancers utilize the full stage to a degree where no part goes unnoticed for any audience member. There is a great sense of duality between the dancer, symbolism and resolve. Right down to the gestures of their hands and the strength of their formation, these dancers truly command the stage with their bodies to a key of music which enchants the ear.

Vivian Aue’s ‘ANGA’ is truly a high energy experience from beginning to end. A fullly Pacific story, movement and emotions in which the audience are enthralled. From intricate ceremonious start to the tearful finish, the performance has you questioning what will occur next as if on the edge of your seat at the newest blockbuster. These dancers combine their skilled dance movement with vocal vigor, individuality and collaboration. Their bodies utilise the stage on all levels and disperse fully throughout the space surrounding even the audience with the aura of their collective anecdotes. Truly, it is hard to draw your eyes away from them as their dance is powerful, vivacious and mesmerizing. Each part dripping in more passion than the last and the transitions executed to the full.  Even when slow you are still enamored by the scene’s depth and the love for their craft.

If you missed the opening night’s performance, you still have a chance to catch the closing night this Wednesday, June 20^th 7PM at Mangere Arts Centre – Nga Tohu o Uenuku. The Pacific Dance Festival will continue captivate and entertain you with the exciting Pacific dance scene of New Zealand until June 23^rd . Don’t miss out!

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