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Regional | Dance

Rākaumangamanga student lands male lead in 'Born to Dance' film

Well-known for his role as 'Munter' on the NZ hit show Outrageous Fortune, Tammy Davis is set to begin filming his debut feature film 'Born to Dance', and nailing the lead male role in the film is a newcomer from Te Kura o Rākaumangamanga in Huntly.

Tia Taharoa Maipi took the cast and crew back to his hometown to meet the locals and Te Kāea went along.

The female lead, Kherington Payne, is a well-known actor and dancer from the States, and the male lead was landed by a young Māori man who hails from the "Royal Family" dance crew.

The film's director, who is known for his great sense of humour, says it was important to him that one of the lead roles went to a Māori, and Tia-Taharoa fit the bill.

The Māori factor is one important flavour director Tammy Davis was looking for.

With great family support and a school with strong Māori philosophies they are also extremely proud of this early success.