‘It started with a kiss’

Worldwide women organisations and agencies celebrate International Women’s Day on the 8th of March, in celebration and solidarity with each other on holding steadfast to supporting the progress made to date, and continuing the work to ensure that our women are not forgotten in the plans and developments of our countries.
This year the theme is ‘equal rights and opportunities for men and women’.
This year, the Cook Islands National Council of Women in partnership with Punanga Tauturu, are supporting this event with a difference.
A stage play written by Vaine Wichman, produced by Tereapii Napa, and directed by Clare Waldroun dedicated to this special day will be staged on Monday the 8th March 2010, at the Assembly of God church in Takuvaine at 7.15 pm.
The title of the play is ‘It started with a kiss’. The theme running through the play is universal, but is set in a period context in Rarotonga. Targeted at our young people it explores the theme of first love, teenage pregnancy, violence in relationships, and the complexities of being in love.
A cast of experienced but first time stage play actors has been assembled. Uirangi Bishop assumes the lead role of Temana, a young beautiful and growing woman in love with life, and naïve about what the real world offers. Sean Wichman accompanies her performance as the young Tama who loves as all men love their women. Maria Tuoro cast as Nina portrays the island side of these deep issues trying to challenge issues that we often try to sweep under the table. The narrators – Elizabeth Wright-Koteka and Ty Connal, complement the messages from the actors as the conscience of our communities.
The entry is $5.00, and interested theatre goers are invited to be seated early.
Punanga Tauturu has been the lead agency advocating for equality in the home, and the importance of protecting the health and status of women and children. The Cook Islands National Council of Women continues to represent the women of the Cook Islands and her affiliate organisations that work towards ensuring that the voice and rights of women and children remain a prominent part of any development discussion.
- Punanga Tauturu media release