The Jolt dance troupe is bringing their multi-media performance, Whakapapa, to Dunedin, showcasing personal stories of identity and ancestral connection through dance.
The Jolt dance troupe is preparing to bring their powerful multi-media performance, Whakapapa, to Dunedin this month. The production, scheduled for April 28 at Te Whare o Rukutia, offers a profound look at how we define ourselves through history and movement.
This performance is a highlight of the group’s current South Island tour, designed to bridge gaps through artistic expression.. During their time in Dunedin, members of Jolt will collaborate with GASP Dance and students from the University of Otago.. These inclusive workshops aim to foster community and creative exchange, proving that dance is a universal language accessible to all.
Stories of Ancestral Connection
At the heart of Whakapapa is an exploration of personal narratives.. Artistic director Lyn Cotton explains that the performance features the unique stories of six dancers living with intellectual disabilities.. By weaving together text, film, and choreography, the dancers—Joel Forman, Jokani Coe, Robert Sopoaga, Jono Bennett, Jacob Levington, and Lachlan Oakes—present their own experiences of heritage and belonging.
The show moves well beyond the limitations of labels, focusing instead on the vibrant reality of the individuals on stage.. For many performers, this process of co-creation has been a transformative experience, allowing them to reclaim their narratives.. It serves as a reminder that disability is merely one facet of a human being, while culture and ancestry often hold the deeper keys to self-identity.
A Homecoming for Joel Forman
One of the most poignant elements of the Dunedin show is the personal journey of Joel Forman.. As a member of Ngāi Tahu, Forman uses his segment of the performance to detail his reconnection with his marae in Moeraki.. Having been adopted into a Christchurch-based whānau as an infant, the journey to his ancestral roots has been significant.. Visiting his marae for the first time in 2023 was a pivotal moment in the creation of his work, bringing him a sense of peace that he describes simply as feeling like he is home.
This show represents more than just a tour; it is a manifestation of the collective artistry within Jolt.. By prioritizing the voices of the dancers, the production challenges the audience to look past superficial judgments.. The goal is to highlight the internal landscape of the performer rather than the external perception of their disability.. In a world that often boxes individuals into categories, this performance encourages a more nuanced understanding of human dignity and cultural pride.
As the tour continues, the impact of these stories will likely ripple beyond the stage.. Through the lens of dance, the performers are demanding space for their voices to be heard, creating a powerful vision of what it means to belong.. Their work reminds us that while our paths to discovery may differ, the search for connection is a shared human endeavor.