Māori Theatre Production “Out the Gate” Explores Justice System

A new theatrical production titled Out the Gate is currently touring New Zealand, aiming to shed light on the impacts of incarceration on Māori communities. Written by Helen Pearse-Otene, who holds affiliations with various Māori iwi, the play will be performed at Massey University in Wellington from November 12 to 15. This production is a collaboration between Te Rākau Theatre and several health research organizations, highlighting the intersection of art and social justice.

Bridging Theatre and Research

“Out the Gate is part of TIAKI, a public health research project on the adverse impacts of incarceration on the health and wellbeing of Māori, whānau, and the wider community,” Pearse-Otene explained.

The project has been underway for three years, involving collaborations with the Eru Pomare Centre at Otago University and the Tū Kotahi Māori Asthma Trust. Researchers have gathered insights through literature reviews, statistical analyses, and interviews with individuals who have experienced the justice system. The findings are disseminated through various channels, including publications, a podcast, and this theatrical work.

Pearse-Otene described the ensemble as unique due to its inclusion of individuals with lived experiences of incarceration. “They’re the ones who get to tell me if the script is rubbish,” she stated, underscoring the importance of authenticity in the narrative.

Exploring Themes of Hope and Healing

The production is more than a performance; it represents a therapeutic engagement with critical issues facing Māori communities. Pearse-Otene’s background in theatre, psychology, and kaupapa Māori health offers a rich framework for crafting a narrative that resonates with both the struggles and resilience of those affected by the justice system.

The play confronts challenging themes, yet aims to instill a message of hope. “The TIAKI study examines the drivers for intergenerational incarceration while presenting community-derived alternatives to address recidivism,” she mentioned. By centering the experiences of those interviewed, the production seeks to reflect a balanced depiction of reality.

Audience engagement extends beyond the stage. Pearse-Otene hopes that the post-show discussions will facilitate deeper conversations about the issues presented. “I like to think of the post-show kōrero as an extension of the performance, allowing the audience to share their analysis of the research,” she noted.

The approach aims for a meaningful takeaway, with Pearse-Otene expressing that if attendees feel the experience was worth their admission, then the production has succeeded.

As the production continues its tour, it serves as a vital platform for dialogue surrounding incarceration within Māori communities. Pearse-Otene’s work exemplifies how theatre can be a powerful tool for social change, offering insights into the complexities of justice and community healing.

In a personal touch, Pearse-Otene revealed a lesser-known fact about herself: her involvement with the Sanditon Sisterhood, a global fan group dedicated to reviving the TV show “Sanditon” after its cancellation. This experience, she shared, provided her with support during challenging times, such as lockdowns.

With Out the Gate, Helen Pearse-Otene continues to push boundaries, bridging art and advocacy to explore critical social issues facing Māori today.