In Conversation with Harrison Cook – MATA MATA
In this edition of In Conversation, we shine a light on MATA MATA, a new dance work by Harrison Cook, premiering at The Blue Room Theatre from 19 – 30 May. MATA MATA is an offering through the act of solo dance. A summoning of the ancestral spirits that reside deep within the awa. As the taniwha stirs just beneath the surface, memory begins to flow from skin into whenua. Awakening the blood memory that is present here. Becoming a sacred ancestral ritual, allow yourself to slip into this journey of returning. Acknowledging the physical body as a vessel to conjure spirit, mana, and memory. MATA MATA is the honouring of Whakapapa and identity and the holder of space to witness the sacred act of awakening this reclamation. We caught up with Harrison Cook to dive into the creative process behind the work and what audiences can expect from this thrilling new production.
What motivated you to apply to be part of The Blue Room Theatre’s 2026 season, and what drew you to this project?
The initial motivation to apply for MATA MATA to be shared in the 2026 The Blue Room Theatre season, was actually Taniwha Matamata himself. Throughout 2025 I found myself situated in different spaces exploring different parts of my wairua and whakapapa. Through this time of personal reflection and research, I uncovered the story of Matamata as being not only a taniwha creature but a kaitiaki (a guardian and protector of the whenua from which my ancestors came from). I felt this calling, deeply, and so the work came to be. At the end of 2025 I was lucky enough to create a short 10 minute version of MATA MATA with support from Enneagon Movement and STRUT Dance and was able to share with audiences here in Boorloo. After this experience and finishing up with this first iteration I knew that this story was not over yet. So, I applied for a slot in the 2026 Annual Season at The Blue Room Theatre and I am so grateful that I have been given this opportunity to share this incredible story this year. It has been a real journey of returning, which is only just beginning.
How has the creative journey been so far, from concept development to rehearsals?
It definitely has been a journey. Through this experience of bringing MATA MATA to life, I feel I am only at the beginning of the journey that will continue onwards. I have discovered, uncovered, remembered a lot within the deepest parts of my wairua (spirit) and story. MATA MATA is truly a story of unfurling and throughout this process I have felt so honoured to share the space not only with my incredible team of creatives, but also those who move through the spiritual realm. Even though it is a solo work it feels full of life and love and that ancestral presence is definitely making itself known.
What has stood out to you during the rehearsal process, any unexpected discoveries or moments of growth?
During the process of rehearsing and creating MATA MATA I think the main thing that has stood out has been the experience of working as a solo creative. I have had many sacred moments in the studio where often I am moving alone, this has been both a challenge and a joy. I’ve also found myself learning so many new skills from the self producing side of this work. Getting to fully understand what putting on an independent work is like has been truly eye opening and given me a new appreciation for all the incredible work that our Independent Arts Community does here in Boorloo.
How has the collaboration with your cast, crew, and creatives shaped the work and your vision for it?
The amazing team I have backing me on this work have truly transformed and shaped this creative landscape into what MATA MATA is. I have immense gratitude and aroha (love) for all who have contributed their time, energy, and spirit into this work. Everyone has been so generous in sharing the essence of their craft, and it really has allowed MATA MATA to become the sacred performance experience I have always dreamed about creating.
What does having your show programmed in The Blue Room Season mean to you as a lead creative?
Having MATA MATA programmed at The Blue Room Theatre means so much to me. As an emerging independent dance artist who is only in my second year out of training, I am honoured that The Blue Room Theatre have allowed me the space to share my story. The Blue Room Theatre being the heart of independent arts here in Boorloo, is so amazing, and I really feel connected to the wonderful artistic community we have here. It’s a real pinch me moment to have my work shared for the first time within this beautiful space.
As you move closer to opening, what are you most excited, or even nervous, about sharing with audiences?
I am most excited to actually share this work to audiences here. It has been brewing within me for some time and I can’t wait to bring it to life. There is however nervousness, as MATA MATA is a deeply personal and sacred story. On opening night when the lights dim I know that I will feel those nerves come sweeping through, but I hope and anticipate that they will be followed by calm and grounded energy and excitement that I get to celebrate in the dancing and sharing of this story.
What is your show bringing to the Perth arts scene, and what do you think would help strengthen the local arts ecosystem?
MATA MATA is a work grounded in culture, spirit, and story from my beautiful homelands of Aotearoa. My hope is that by bringing this work to the stage in Perth, it will open up a conversation and a portal into a new realm of exchanges. The Perth arts scene is full of so many amazing story tellers from all walks of life and lands and waters, and I think everyone has something different and exciting to bring forwards. That is my ultimate goal for MATA MATA, is to be able to share a side of myself that many may not have realised was there.
Image by Cameron Park for Enneagon Movement and STRUT Dance