The Battalion

A moving story about friendship, loyalty, madness and redemption – seen through the eyes of Paora Matene, a war veteran, and relayed to his wayward charges Rimini and George.

Sent back to their Whanau in the “one cow town” of Tamariri, Rimini and George aren’t interested in any of the locals or their family history – they just want to get back to the city.

It was the same for five young men in 1939. Drawn in by the excitement of war, they run away to the army and join the 28 Māori Battalion. Thus begins their adventure of a lifetime ...

The Battalion by Helen Pearse-Otene features a foreword by legendary theatre persona Alan Scott, and notes from the director and writer. 

An extensive educational resource is available to purchase here.

The eBook is available to be purchased here.

This work be can performed by as few as 17 actors, or as many as the company decides to use in its Chorus / Kapa Haka group.