A Collective Vision Rooted in Indigenous Artistry
Rooted in the rich tradition of Indigenous artistry, Shifting Centre operates as a dynamic collective dedicated to fostering creativity and community building in Te Whanganui‑a‑Tara. Under the direction of Sefa Tunupopo, this award‑winning group champions the voices of Indigenous artists, emphasising the diverse forms support can take in different contexts.
Featuring a talented cast — including Kōwhai Deuchars, Kaysee Savali, and Levi Siaosi — alongside the imaginative contributions of original soundscape designer Grayson Ziogas, The Circle stands as a testament to the collective’s mission to enrich the local arts scene and pave new pathways for Indigenous expression.
Themes of Support and Celebration
At its heart, The Circle is a meditation on what it means to support one another. As the characters navigate their alternate world, they confront various interpretations of support — understanding that it manifests in countless ways. Through powerful movement and emotive storytelling, the cast exemplifies how collective resilience is built not just through shared hardship but also by fostering joy in each other’s achievements.
Celebration stands as a central theme, emphasising that true liberation stems from acknowledging and uplifting one another. Shifting Centre invites spectators to witness the transformative power of community during the journey toward utopia. By illuminating the balance between struggle and triumph, the work calls on every audience member to reflect on their roles in nurturing their communities.
A Celebration of Indigenous Artistry at Pacific Dance Festival 2026
The Pacific Dance Festival 2026 provides a vibrant platform for The Circle, showcasing the innovative artistry of Shifting Centre, an award‑winning Indigenous arts collective. This festival invites audiences to experience the unique fusion of street dance and contemporary performance, allowing Indigenous narratives to take centre stage.
As the characters navigate their quest for utopia, the work reflects the rich cultural heritage of Aotearoa, spotlighting the importance of storytelling within Indigenous communities. The festival celebrates not only the talent of the cast — including Montell Nickel, Oto Lupo, and others — but also the collaborative spirit that defines Shifting Centre’s mission.
The return of The Circle to the Pacific Dance Festival signifies a commitment to elevating Indigenous voices in the arts. With lighting design by Isadora Lao and soundscape by Grayson Ziogas, audiences will be immersed in a multisensory experience that highlights the complexities and triumphs within the journey toward support and celebration.
Experience The Circle at Pacific Dance Festival 2026
Join us at Māngere Arts Centre – Ngā Tohu o Uenuku as The Circle returns to the stage — a bold, heartfelt celebration of community, creativity, and Indigenous excellence.
TICKETS
