It’s 1962 and Te Puhi Johnson has just been crowned Miss New Zealand, the first Māori woman to win the title. The reluctant beauty queen only entered the pageant after being convinced by her sister, to fundraise for their kapa haka group.
Five years on, Puhi has built a successful singing career in London when an urgent letter arrives from home prompting a hasty return to Rotorua, where Puhi and her family must deal with the fallout from her long absence.
This inspiring coming of age story is an homage to the first Māori beauty queens who used their unique platform to promote their culture in a positive light.
By Cian Elyse Waitī.
Finalist - Best Play, 2016 Playmarket Adam Awards. Duration: 100 minutes, no interval.
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