KO AU recently returned with a powerful three-day mini festival, showcasing the artistry and diversity of street dance in Aotearoa. This season of KO AU kicked off Matariki in style, celebrating the fusion of dance, culture, and community through Projekt Team’s core elements: freestyle, battle, and showcase. KO AU once again proved to be a powerful celebration of street dance, culture, and the strength of community.
The festival opened with "PAREAU," a freestyle showcase where dancers created brand-new pieces live on stage. With limited knowledge of the music and staging elements, the event delivered an evening full of surprise and innovation, leaving the audience captivated by the raw creativity on display.
Day two brought "KAINGA," a vibrant battle event dedicated to the spirit of community. Dancers of all levels came together, representing their villages and tribes in an intense and thrilling battle. The event ended with an after party, where everyone celebrated the connections and camaraderie formed throughout the night.
The festival concluded with "LE'O," a collaborative showcase featuring Projekt Team alongside talented young dancers from high schools across Tāmaki Makaurau. This new rendition of the KO AU showcase highlighted the dynamic energy of our youth, paired with the experience of seasoned professionals, bringing the festival to a heartfelt and inspiring close.
Duration: 3 Days
Type: Cultural Dance Festival
Number of Dancers: Large cast of 15-20 performers
Set design and Lighting: Minimal light, no set design, background Church Setting
Art form (s): Street Dance styles, Pacific Dance, Improvisation, Freestyle and Battle