Teine Samoa | Teine Niu Sila - Being a New Zealand-born Samoan Woman, navigating cultural identity and loss in the 21st century: A Hybrid Choreographic Exploration

Abstract

In Aotearoa, New Zealand, New Zealand-born Samoans have a unique hybrid identity defined by attributes and experiences from both New Zealand and Samoa. This thesis offers a critical exploration of hybrid cultural identity and explores themes around loss, adoption and cultural belonging. Within these complexities, this thesis critically examines issues around being a New Zealand born Samoan as a choreographer and dancer. It also looks at my personal movement vocabulary combined with Samoan movement traditions, hip-hop and contemporary movement – a hybrid dance language. This research discusses six Pasifika artists who generate art from dance, spoken word, photography and visual art, critically reflecting on cultural traditions and contemporary traditions. This thesis explores how their work has influenced this study and creative work. Vā and Talanoa methodologies are engaged throughout this research. Using a narrative method, these auto-ethnographic stories provide insight into issues of New Zealand Samoan identity. This thesis aims to provide an understanding and an interpretation of Samoan traditions within contemporary New Zealand culture.