Matewa Media and Walt Disney Animation Studios have announced the cast for Encanto Reo Māori, which has premiered on September 12.
This special version of the popular Disney film Encanto blends Colombian and Māori cultures, highlighting the importance of community, wisdom passed through generations, and respect for elders.
Producers Chelsea Winstanley and Mia Henry-Teirney described Encanto Reo Māori as Disney’s most culturally diverse production so far. They see it as an opportunity to celebrate the unique expressions of Māori culture and showcase the magic of being Māori.
The cast includes familiar voices from other Disney Māori adaptations, such as Tuakoi Ohia and Rutene Spooner, who return as Pepa Madrigal and her husband Félix. Awhimai Fraser voices Dolores, while Matewa Waititi plays the youngest cousin, Antonio. Tauawhi Bonilla will voice the shapeshifter Camilo, and Mataara Stokes is back as village heartthrob Mariano Guzmán.
The production team includes Tweedie Waititi, Chelsea Winstanley, Mia Henry-Teirney, and Pere Wihongi as music director. The movie’s release coincides with Te Wiki o Te Reo Māori.
Encanto Reo Māori is the fifth Disney movie reimagined in te reo Māori, following adaptations of Moana, The Lion King, Frozen, and Coco. Producer Tweedie Waititi noted that although this project was the most challenging yet, it promises to be a heartfelt experience filled with laughter and tears.
