Majestic fusion of Pacific dance, couture takes centre stage

The Māngere Arts Centre will come to life this weekend with an exhilarating fusion of Pacific dance and fashion in a show called ARIKI.

ARIKI is the latest edition of annual events presented by Auckland-based Pacific collectives - the traditional and contemporary dance company AUĒ Dance and couture fashion innovators from The House of VA.

AUĒ and The House of VA describe their show as the “only fused Pacific dance and Pacific couture fashion show in the world”.

“A one-of-a-kind experience and I definitely know we are the only collective in the world to showcase a world-class Pacific dance and Pacific fashion fused show,” Artistic Director Vivian Hosking-Aue says.

Hosking-Aue, a renowned Cook Islands choreographer and fashion designer, is the creative force behind the show, alongside assistant choreographer Lagi Hogue.

ARIKI promises a regal experience that explores the role and history of royalty and chieftainship throughout the region and how they impact modern diasporic communities living in Aotearoa.

“An extraordinary show full of inclusivity, colour, vibrant moments, ethnic energies and indigenous excellency,” a statement reads.

Since its establishment in 2018, AUĒ and The House of VA have been committed to uplifting future generations in the creative and performing arts sector.

They aim to nurture, support, and inspire young Pasifika people to venture into the arts and see the potential as a viable career pathway.

As part of this year’s event, South Auckland secondary schools were invited to a free matinee performance on Friday, 27 June.

ARIKI follows last year’s sold-out show, TOTO, which Theatreview noted as “a mixing bowl of cultural excellence” with “not a flaw insight”.

Signature elements of their shows include body, size, and colour inclusivity, where every piece is tailored to fit each model, embodying the bountiful nature of the Pacific.

Fusing together ura, hula, and siva, models will strut to music that inspires more than just hip movement, attracting an audience of the brightest and boldest in Tāmaki Makaurau.

Audience members are often awestruck by the confidence and presence of the performers from AUĒ and The House of VA.

Hosking-Aue says Pacific people want to see and feel themselves celebrated in all spaces, and anticipation is building for their greatest show yet.

“ARIKI is a beautiful Pacific dance and Pacific couture fashion show filled with various ethnic dancers and models. An exciting opportunity for audiences to witness.”

ARIKI will be performed at the Māngere Arts Centre at 7pm on 27 and 28 June 2025. Find tickets here.