Māori-Led Production “Out the Gate” Tackles Incarceration Issues

A new theatrical production titled Out the Gate is currently captivating audiences in Wellington, New Zealand, by addressing the critical issue of incarceration within Māori communities. The play, written by Helen Pearse-Otene, a psychologist and theatre practitioner, is part of a broader initiative exploring the impacts of imprisonment on health and well-being among Māori, their families, and the wider community. It is being performed at Massey University from November 12 to 15.

“Out the Gate is a theatrical conversation about incarceration in Aotearoa,”

said Pearse-Otene, whose extensive background includes work in both psychology and Māori healthcare. The production is a significant element of the TIAKI project, a public health initiative in collaboration with the Eru Pomare Centre at Otago University and Tū Kotahi Māori Asthma Trust. For three years, researchers have analyzed literature, statistical data, and interviews with people affected by the justice system.

The concept of theatre marae underpins this production, creating a unique space where traditional Māori performing arts intersect with contemporary theatre practices. This method serves as a decolonising strategy, allowing performers to express themes of colonization, trauma, and social justice through evocative storytelling.

Pearse-Otene highlights the importance of collaboration with an ensemble that includes individuals with lived experiences of the justice system. “They’re the ones who get to tell me if the script is rubbish,” she remarked, emphasizing the authenticity of the narrative shaped by those most affected.

The play not only confronts the harsh realities of incarceration but also seeks to offer hope and community-derived alternatives to recidivism. The TIAKI study aims to address the underlying causes of intergenerational incarceration while providing solutions rooted in community input.

Striking a balance between tough themes and messages of hope is a central focus for Pearse-Otene. “I hope that, in being guided primarily by the community interviews, the play mirrors this,” she explained. The production encourages audiences to engage in meaningful discussions during post-show conversations, allowing them to analyze the research and its implications on societal perceptions of justice.

The goal is for audience members to leave feeling that their ticket was an investment in understanding these important issues. “If people walk away thinking the price of admission was worth it, then I’m happy,” Pearse-Otene stated.

In addition to her theatre work, Pearse-Otene shared a personal insight, revealing her involvement with the Sanditon Sisterhood, a global fan group advocating for the renewal of the television series Sanditon. This engagement, she noted, provided a sense of community during the isolation of lockdowns.

As Out the Gate continues its tour, it stands as a vital contribution to the dialogue around incarceration and its effects on Māori communities, fostering awareness and encouraging a collective examination of justice in New Zealand.