Tereora College students are gearing up to showcase their exceptional talents and creativity in the highly anticipated Tūrangavaevae Performing Arts assessment.

The Thursday evening event is the finale of months of dedication, practice, and artistic design which will culminate in the production of a live performance (2-4 minutes long) by the performing arts students.  

The performances are based on a concept about where they feel especially empowered and connected.

They will have their moment to shine at Te Are Karioi (National Auditorium) from 6.30pm.

Additionally, this year's fashion show will feature designs created by students from Year 10, Level 1, 2, and 3 sewing classes.

These designs will also be showcased on stage during the evening.

Tūrangavaevae originates from Aotearoa’s Tūrangawaewae - it is often translated as “a place to stand”.

Performing arts teacher Merle Pukerua said Tūrangavaevae holds a significant meaning in Reo Māori, denoting a sense of standing or grounding.

“Tūrangavaevae has been embraced by our community, and it is important for us to value and acknowledge its existence,” she said.

Pukerua was raised speaking the Manihiki dialect and would often hear her grandfather refer to “tohou turanga takahinga Vaevae” which she said simply means, one's place of standing.

“This year, we have a group of talented young choreographers who are shaping the future of this art form; as they incorporate dance into their chosen courses, they are exploring various choreographic ideas and building upon their strengths in different genres.

“At Tereora, our dance classes provide students with opportunities to choreograph dances in genres such as contemporary, modern jive, hip hop, Cook Islands and New Zealand Māori dance, and other ethnic cultural expressions,” Pukerua said.

Daniel Akai, Level 3 performing arts student said tūrangavaevae for him was a place where he stood in his church, the qualities he had, and how God saved him from temptations.

Akai said his preparations had come along well, considering his dancers had other commitments.

Ana Nooroa, also in Level 3 said “tūrangavaevae is an assessment that I always look forward to, ever since Year 9, I’ve always wanted to portray where I stand as an individual through my choreography and dance.

“My preparation has come along swimmingly, and I’m confident in my choreography and in the performances of my dancers on the night.”

Each production is worth eight credits to the student’s NCEA (National Certificate of Educational Achievement).

Students are responsible for selecting their own dancers, costumes, lighting, and the technology they use.

Before receiving their grades, Level 3 dance students must provide their planning and brainstorming process for the development of their final product, allowing markers to gain a deeper understanding of the purpose and concept behind their work.

Also on the night, the Level 2 dance class will present a theatrical dance performance based on the theme of Grease.

Tickets are priced at $10 for adults, $5 for students, admission is free for children aged five and younger, proceeds from the night will support the Tereora textile and dance classes.