23 Sep 2018

Isaac Te Reina hopes - to give hope

From Standing Room Only, 12:46 pm on 23 September 2018
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Photo: Provided

A Maori filmmaker and actor has written a play he hopes will give hope to young people who're struggling with mental health issues.

Isaac Te Reina is about to premiere All Good as part of the 4th ATAWHAI festival. "Atawhai" means to show kindness, and that's the festival's aim, using storytelling to reach people and help them talk about difficult issues and experiences.

This year, Isaac has won a Creative New Zealand award for Best Emerging Artist, and his past film projects include Tamanui, which encouraged Maori to reconnect to traditional tikanga practices.

Lynn Freeman talked to him about All good, which premieres on Tuesday at Auckland's Basement Theatre before heading to Bats in Wellington.

If you are seeking help with issues you are facing, 0800 543 354 is the number for Lifeline.