​Stepping into Hannah’s Playhouse and into the crowd gathered for the Hudson & Halls LIVE! Show is a rather juxtaposing scene coming from the strong gales and general misery outside. Inside, the atmosphere is near frenetic with excitement. People all around the foyer are smiling, hugging, taking photos. I can hear people reminiscing about when they used to watch the show, telling stories of sitting with their families, everyone laughing along with the antics of the original Hudson and Halls. Having such a great energy even before the show begins was fabulous and I became enthralled in the energy of those around me and there was a tangible feeling of anticipation to see the show in action.

​James Nokise’s Rukahu began in a more unusual way from any other show I have experienced by starting in the foyer and led us in the style of a traditional powhiri into the Propeller Stage of BATS. After much love and greetings were given to us in Samoan by Nokise’s character, Jon Bon Fasi, we were arranged into a gendered formation and, lifting his phone in the air, he played an untradtional waiata and allowed us entry. His personable nature warmed the audience early on and made us willing participants in whatever this soloist star of Rukahu, had in store. This turned out to be a impromptu and energetic dance from Jon Bon Fasi and caused a dedicated following in the audience members who joined in.

This year’s STAB commission, The Rime of the Modern Mariner is presented by The PlayGround Collective. The production is an adaptation of an adaptation and the indecisiveness of the show’s direction makes it obvious that there is not a clear vision. The Rime of the Modern Mariner is presented as a conversation starter about human involvement in environmental issues. Upon arrival, the design elements hold true to this statement. Unfortunately the rest of the show does not.
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