The Tīwhas, a takatāpui drag collective known for blending waiata Māori, drag, comedy, cabaret, and kapa haka, are taking a significant step by moving their production MĀREIKURA to the mainstage of Circa Theatre in Wellington. The show opens July 3 and runs through July 11, marking the group’s first performance on Circa One’s mainstage after two sold-out seasons in the theatre’s foyer.
Artistic lead Jthan Morgan describes the production as a tribute to wāhine—women—across generations, drawing inspiration from the women who have influenced and supported her, including her mother, grandmothers, and sisters. Each member of The Tīwhas has prepared a dedicated song honoring their own māmā, while Morgan plans to present a segment she believes is unprecedented on Circa’s mainstage.
Morgan highlights the importance of her wider whānau in shaping the show, including her best friend and vocalist Kree, longtime collaborator and creative anchor for the collective. She also acknowledges her goddaughters and drag whānau, featuring four drag-daughters among the performers, as carrying significant energy and inspiration into the production. Throughout the season, Morgan intends to incorporate subtle nods and moments dedicated to these personal connections, intertwining them with references to atua (deities) and trailblazers who have paved the way.
Moving to the larger Circa One stage reflects both a practical and symbolic evolution for The Tīwhas. As the group has grown in size and scope, their previous performance spaces no longer accommodate their full cast and ambitious production. Morgan underscores that performing at their home theatre on a mainstage allows audiences a more immersive experience of their dynamic and multifaceted show.
MĀREIKURA explores themes of motherhood and womanhood in various forms, inviting audience members to engage with the material through their own perspectives. The performance stays true to The Tīwhas’ distinctive style, featuring a mix of Māori songs, haka, drag anthems, and pop music, ramped up to deliver an energetic and unpredictable show. Morgan hints at additional surprises woven throughout the performance.
A unique aspect of this season is the inclusion of a shared supper and post-show meet-and-greet as part of every ticket. Morgan explains that sharing kai serves to whakanoa—transforming the space from tapu (sacred, restricted) to noa (free, ordinary), fostering a communal connection between performers and audiences.
MĀREIKURA will be staged at Circa Theatre, with evening performances at 7 p.m. from July 3 to 11 and a matinee at 4 p.m. on July 5. Tickets are available through the Circa Theatre website.