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Tama Waipara - Balancing Acts
From New York to New Zealand, singer/songwriter Tama Waipara is a seasoned pro at balancing a range of different musical projects while he’s on the move. Now at the end of his summer national tour with vocalist Maisey Rika, Tama is looking forward to playing the anarchist professor Tom Collins in the upcoming production of the musical RENT. We managed to pin him down and talk to him about RENT (opening at The Civic on 22 April), studying in New York and his future plans.
How did you become involved in the upcoming musical RENT?
I heard about the upcoming production and I was keen to audition. A friend of mine introduced me to the musical many years ago, right before I moved to live in New York to attend Manhattan School of Music.I guess I felt a strong emotional connection with the piece.
Can you tell us a bit about the production and your role in this?
RENT is a strong ensemble piece which relies heavily on the strengths of the entire cast. I'm just one of the cogs turning the wheel in that sense. I play the part of Tom Collins who is an anarchistic yet affable Professor.
The production is the eight-longest-running Broadway show and has won numerous awards. Why do you think RENT has been so successful?
The music is fantastic for a start,but it is an epic love story, about people feeling worthy of love. These characters are all carrying baggage and come from totally different walks of life but share the pursuit of love in common with each other. The music reflects that diversity of background too. Rock, Gospel and some stunning ballads.
RENT is considered revolutionary for bringing controversial topics to the stage. How do you think New Zealand audiences will respond to the adult themes through this medium?
I hope with an open mind and an enthusiasm to talk about these topics in the open in an entertaining and compelling way. All the controversy aside, it is a bunch of people with big dreams trying to figure their way through life. That experience is universal and I think New Zealand audiences know a good yarn when they see it.
A graduate at the Manhattan School of Music - can you tell us about your musical journey in New York and how did this opportunity come about?
I auditioned for a Masters degree in Clarinet and moved to New York in 1998. After I graduated in 2001 I was signed as a singer to Obliqsound in NY, recording my first album and touring thereafter. New York has an energy that can propel you from one project to the next and if you;re open to those twists and turns it can be amazing.
What's your favourite spot in New York City?
There are many, but lately I have been thinking about a Chicken Stew from a Dominican restaurant called Malecon which is in Washington Heights. So good!
You're often involved in a series of musical projects on the go - from composing Flintlock Musket to recording Sir Plus and the Requirements and many others. How do you balance these projects out?
It can be quite hard to balance things but I love the variety and challenge of the work. There is always something to learn, and I have been very fortunate to work with some incredible people so at the moment, I guess keeping a good planner is the best way to stay on top of things.
What other upcoming musical projects do you have scheduled?
I'll be playing the role of Api Puoro in Albert Belz' new play "Raising the Titanics", alongside Fran Kora and that starts rehearsing shortly after RENT finishes. I just finished a national tour with Maisey Rika which was a real joy so I'm also keen to get back on the road later in the year, and will definitely be working new material for an album as well.
How would you describe your musical style?
Eclectic is probably an understatement but irrespective of genre or feel I always try to be authentic and honest. I love soul, alternative, classical, rock, pop and jazz too. The last album I did had one foot in 50's Pop and the other in 70s Soul which is probably a good starting point.
What are you most looking forward to in April?
RENT is a huge part of it and I'm excited to share the stage with such incredible talents. The cast are amazing and very talented and I feel privileged to be performing alongside them. |
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