Glass Ceiling Arts Collective is proud to present AHI: After Mahuika, a revolutionary new multi-sensory play designed to engage audiences of all abilities, including those with profound disabilities. This innovative production redefines theatre by making it a fully immersive, interactive, and inclusive experience that prioritises accessibility at every level.

Inspired by the Māori legend of Mahuika, the goddess of fire, AHI: After Mahuika is a journey of discovery, storytelling, and sensory exploration. The production invites audiences to experience theatre in a deeply personal way, through touch, sound, light, and movement. Rather than a traditional stage performance, AHI unfolds in an intimate setting where actors and audience members engage directly, creating a unique and responsive theatrical environment.

A Theatre Experience for Everyone

Unlike conventional theatre, AHI: After Mahuika is specifically crafted for individuals with diverse sensory and communication needs. The production integrates tactile materials, gentle vibrations, ambient sounds, and lighting effects that cater to different sensory preferences.

"This show is designed to ensure that every person, regardless of ability, can fully engage with the magic of storytelling," says Glass Ceiling Arts Collective’s Artistic Director. "We want to create a space where those who are often excluded from live performance can experience theatre in a way that feels natural and joyful for them."

Building Pathways for Young Artists

A core value of Glass Ceiling Arts Collective is creating career opportunities for young Disabled and neurodiverse artists. AHI: After Mahuika is a testament to this commitment, with a diverse cast and crew that includes emerging talent from the Collective’s inclusive arts programmes. Among them is 16-year-old Destiny, an aspiring singer and performer who has overcome significant challenges to take on a lead role in the production.

"Being part of AHI is a dream come true," says Destiny. "This show proves that theatre belongs to everyone, and I’m so proud to be part of something that is changing the way people experience the Arts."

A Step Toward a More Inclusive Arts Sector

With AHI: After Mahuika, Glass Ceiling Arts Collective continues to break barriers and push for systemic change in the Arts industry. The production challenges traditional ideas of accessibility, ensuring that theatre is not just something to be watched but something to be felt, experienced, and lived by all.

The show will debut in December 2024, with performances tailored for special schools, home-schoolers, and community audiences. More than just a performance, AHI: After Mahuika is a movement—one that reimagines what theatre can be and who it is for.

Glass Ceiling Arts Collective would like to acknowledge the follow funders and supports of AHI After Mahuika:

Auckland Council (through an Audience Development grant)
The Chisholm Whitney Charitable Trust
The Bobby Stafford Bush Foundation
The Auckland Theatre Company

Please enjoy this gallery of photos from the development season of AHI After Mahuika. Photos courtesy of Megan Goldsman.