Movement of the Human and Auckland Live Present TŌRUA – An Urban Dance Experience by Malia Johnston
Published: Thursday 13 March 2025
Movement of the Human and Auckland Live are proud to present Tōrua, an urban dance work by acclaimed choreographer and director Malia Johnston (World of Wearable Arts, Belle - Performance of Air, Auckland Arts Festival).
Tōrua is a free immersive dance experience that will transform Auckland’s cityscape over two weekends in April, bringing movement, sound and storytelling to two of the city’s most iconic public spaces - Te Komititanga and Aotea Square.
Tōrua features an outstanding ensemble of dance artists, including Levi Siaosi, Sefa Tunupopo, Kia Jewell, Xin Ji, Jemina Smith, Ella Williams, Andre Busby, Petronilla Su'a and Cameron Holland. Hailing from across Aotearoa New Zealand and Australia, the performers will lead audiences on a journey through the urban environment, using the city as their stage - moving and responding to the city.
“We are thrilled to bring Tōrua to the city streets of Tāmaki Makaurau Auckland as a free event, allowing audiences to experience contemporary dance in a unique and innovative way. Malia Johnston is one of New Zealand’s most revered choreographers, and her work continues to push boundaries and inspire.” Helaina Keeley, Auckland Live
The performance is accompanied by a soundtrack composed by Anna Edgington and Eden Mulholland (Ngāti Porou), creating a fully immersive experience. Audience members will receive headphones to hear the soundtrack during the show while moving through the city.
Tōrua is a celebration of movement, place and connection - a powerful performance that invites audiences to experience the city through dance in an entirely new way.
Locations: Te Komititanga and Aotea Square, Auckland Central
Dates: Friday 4 - Sunday 6 April 2025 (Te Komititanga) + Friday 11 - Sunday 13 April 2025 (Aotea Square)
Tickets: Free ticketed event
Book your free tickets:
Te Komititanga
Aotea Square
For more information visit aucklandlive.co.nz
Audience members are encouraged to wear comfortable walking shoes, as the performance involves movement between locations. Accessible route options will be available.
Tōrua is presented by Movement of the Human and Auckland Live, part of Tātaki Auckland Unlimited, with support from Britomart, Auckland Council and the city centre targeted rate.
