There is a powerful whakataukī that speaks to the heart of our recent major senior drama production: Kia whakatōmuri te haere whakamua: ‘I walk backwards into the future with my eyes fixed on my past’
This proverb, which views the past, present, and future as deeply intertwined, was the central pillar upon which our performance of Helen Pearse-Otene’s magnificent play, The Battalion, was built. It teaches us that the past is not a distant memory but a living, breathing force that shapes our present and guides our future.
In The Battalion, this concept is masterfully woven into the story of the 28th Māori Battalion. The play beautifully illustrates that these soldiers did not go to war alone. They carried with them the mana and the wairua of their tīpuna. On stage, our talented Year 12 and 13 Drama students used powerful theatrical techniques to collapse time and space, showing the past and present co-existing, and ancestors walking alongside the soldiers. The audience witnessed how the past was not just a static backdrop but an active character in the story, constantly informing the present.
The play reminds us that the soldiers' journey did not end upon their return. The experiences, sacrifices, and bravery of the Māori Battalion profoundly shaped the identity of Māori today. They carved a path and created a legacy of courage, leadership, and fierce pride that continues to inspire current and future generations.
He Mihi Nui ki te Whānau...
This performance would not have been possible without the taonga that is the script. We send a huge mihi and aroha to the playwright, Helen Pearse-Otene, her husband Jim Moriarty (the original director of The Battalion), and their whānau. They are giants in Aotearoa's theatre landscape and the most generous people.
We have been incredibly fortunate to connect with this beautiful whānau on numerous occasions this year, from a Theatre Marae workshop in Term 1 to seeing Tamati and Hariata Moriarty new show Waenga in Wellington, as well as a video call with Jim Moriarty to get his perspectives on directing Waenga. These connections have enriched our understanding and deepened our respect for their mahi.
To Our Incredible Rangatahi...
I must give a massive shout-out to our performers, the Year 12 and 13 Drama class. It has been an absolute privilege to direct you in this play, to guide you, and to share in this important mahi. I am so incredibly proud of all of you. Seeing you jump into the deep end, take risks, and build resilience—all while honouring this beautiful text—is the very heart of being a drama kaiako. You have taken this history, this taonga, and are now carrying it forward for all of us.
For our Year 13 students, this was your final major performance at McGlashan. I hope you cherished the moment; it was a significant milestone earned with immense dedication.
Finally, to our wonderful audience, thank you for your attendance, your time, and your aroha. Your support allows us to share these vital stories.
Ngā mihi nui.
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