Māori-Led Production ‘Out the Gate’ Explores Incarceration Issues

A new theatrical work titled Out the Gate is currently making waves in Aotearoa, focusing on the complex issues surrounding incarceration. Written by Helen Pearse-Otene, a psychologist and theatre practitioner, the play is part of Te Rākau Theatre’s ongoing commitment to exploring Māori narratives and experiences. The production is being performed at Massey University in Wellington from November 12 to 15.

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

Pearse-Otene explained, emphasizing the play’s role in addressing significant societal issues. The work is an example of theatre marae, which merges traditional Māori performing arts with contemporary themes. This approach serves as a decolonizing strategy, allowing for a rich exploration of Māori expressions related to colonization, trauma, and social justice.

The play is not just a performance; it is part of the TIAKI research project, which investigates the adverse effects of incarceration on the health and wellbeing of Māori, whānau, and the broader community. Over the past three years, Pearse-Otene has collaborated with the Eru Pomare Centre at Otago University and the Tū Kotahi Māori Asthma Trust. Their joint efforts have included analyzing literature, statistical data, and conducting interviews with individuals who have firsthand experience of the justice system.

When asked about the collaborative process with ensemble members who have experienced incarceration, Pearse-Otene noted,

“They’re the ones who get to tell me if the script is rubbish.”

This feedback loop is vital to the authenticity of the narrative and ensures that the production resonates with the realities faced by those impacted by the justice system.

The intersection of Pearse-Otene’s expertise in theatre, psychology, and kaupapa Māori health is evident in the production. Each discipline contributes to a holistic understanding of human suffering and healing, ultimately enriching the audience’s experience.

Despite tackling challenging themes, Out the Gate also conveys a message of hope. The research behind the play looks at the drivers of intergenerational incarceration while highlighting community-derived alternatives to reduce recidivism. Pearse-Otene aims to create a narrative that reflects these findings, providing audiences with both insight and resilience.

Following each performance, audiences are encouraged to engage in a kōrero, an extension of the theatrical experience. Pearse-Otene sees this as an opportunity for viewers to analyze the research and discuss its implications. She hopes that attendees leave feeling that the experience was worthwhile and thought-provoking.

In a lighter moment, Pearse-Otene shared a personal interest that may surprise some: she is a member of the Sanditon Sisterhood, a global fan group that campaigned for the renewal of the television series Sanditon after its cancellation. This passion provided a sense of community and connection during the lockdown period.

As Out the Gate continues its tour, it stands as a testament to the power of theatre to foster dialogue and understanding around critical social issues. The production not only entertains but also serves as a catalyst for conversations that can lead to meaningful change in Aotearoa and beyond.