Mark Twain and me in Maoriland

Weaving historical fact with magical realism, Mark Twain & Me in Maoriland fuses a Spaghetti Western with an epic love story. Inspired by true events, this bullet-ridden, comic tale is set amidst the saloons of Whanganui in 1895 - a combustible time of mercenaries, prophets, vaudeville, and self-serving mayoralty.

This gun-toting production sparks from the true account of Mark Twain's Australasian lecture tour, which came to an abrupt halt when the outspoken writer incurred the wrath of the local English establishment. Twain shocked the colonials when he pronounced a Moutoa monument, honouring Maori loyal to the English, should be blown up for encouraging natives to become traitors to their own race. He also claimed the rebel Maori, slandered as barbarians and fanatics, were in fact the country's true patriots.

Watch the performances from 13 - 21 March at Soundings Theatre in Te Papa.

Taki Rua Productions hold an important place in New Zealand theatre. Hear the company talk about their current work on Monday 1 March at the City Gallery.