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Why I wrote the play I wrote CIAN PARKER on Sorry for Your Loss
Right, let’s take it back to 2019. I have just sent in my application for the Waikato New Works Incubator Programme; a new programme run by Creative Waikato in Hamilton focused on developing local artists through the creation of their own original works. My email is titled ‘The Lost Ones’. The attached PDF outlines a physical ensemble piece exploring what it feels like to be bicultural. Jump forward a month, I am in the programme. I held an audition. Two people show up. One is underage. The other thought he was auditioning for a hip hop crew. It was over before it began. The Lost Ones… was lost to the ether. Until I have a conversation with my mentor Laura Haughey. It kinda went like this: “I ain’t got an ensemble.” “Ok.” “I think I am going to have to pull out of the programme.” “Why?” “No ensemble.” “Do a one-woman show.” “I can’t.” “You can.”
“I don’t know how to.” “You don’t have another option.” “Ok” Burnt. “So, I am doing a one-woman show.” “Cool.” Mentorship. My mentor, Laura Haughey, turned creative partner saw something in me that I was yet to discover. We now arrive at the conversation that really got the ball rolling. Probably where you wanted me to start from the get-go. But I thought it best to give some context. I have just raced to The Meteor Theatre for the start of our weekend of workshops. I check the whiteboard and I am just in time for my one-on-one mentor session with The Victor Rodger. Gulp. I sit down and see my original PDF application splayed across the table. On the other side of the table is Awhina-Rose Ashby Henare. Jump back in my time machine, again. Sorry, bub. But it’ll be worth it. Right 2014, I’m finishing homework for uni. I get a FB message. Blimp. “Hi Cian, my name is Awhina, I am searching on behalf
