Mika X

{{short description|New Zealand Māori Singer}} {{for|British-Lebanese singer-songwriter|Mika (singer)}} {{Use dmy dates|date=May 2021}} {{Use New Zealand English|date=May 2021}} {{Infobox person | honorific_prefix = | name = Mika X | honorific_suffix = | image = File:Mika Haka Black and white.jpg | image_upright = | landscape =  | alt =  | caption = | native_name = | native_name_lang = | pronunciation = | birth_name = Terrance John Pou | birth_date = {{Birth date and age|df=yes|1962|02|08}} | birth_place = Timaru, New Zealand | monuments = | other_names = Neil Gudsell, Mika, Mika Haka | alma_mater = | occupation = {{hlist|Singer|actor|choreographer|comedian|filmmaker|fashion designer}} | years_active = | employer = | organization = {{ubl|Mika Haka Foundation|Mika Haka Studio|Patangaroa Entertainment Limited}} | known_for = | notable_works =  | spouse =  | partner =  | children = | relatives = | family = }}

'''Mika''' (born '''Terrance John Pou''', né '''Neil Gudsell''', 8 February 1962; also known by the stage names '''Mika Haka''' and '''Mika X''') is a New Zealand Māori singer, performance artist, actor, filmmaker, TV producer and comedian.<ref name="Mazer">{{cite book|last=Mazer|first=Sharon|title=I Have Loved Me A Man: The Life and Times of Mika|publisher=Auckland University Press|year=2018|isbn=9781869408862|author-link=}}</ref>

He has toured the world, performing his cabaret shows and music, including 10 performances at the Edinburgh Festival Fringe. He has also acted in TV shows and movies including ''Shark in the Park'', ''The Piano'', and ''Shortland Street''. Mika has released five music albums including ''Do U Like What U See'', ''Mika Haka'' and ''Mika Versus Fashion''.

== Name == Mika was born Terrance John Pou,<ref name="Mazer" /> but was legally adopted immediately by Bill and Dawn Gudsell, who named him Neil.<ref name=":0" /> In 1988, musician Dalvanius Prime suggested he change his name to the gender-neutral name Mika, which he did in 1990.<ref name="Mazer" /> He has since gone by the name Mika Haka,<ref name=":1" /><ref name=":2" /><ref name=":3" /> and currently uses the stage name Mika X.<ref>{{Cite web|last=Mau|first=Alison|date=2021-03-31|title=Destiny Church leaders fled lockdown for me, witness in businessman's trial says|url=https://www.stuff.co.nz/national/crime/300265183/destiny-church-leaders-fled-lockdown-for-me-witness-in-businessmans-trial-says|access-date=2021-05-29|website=Stuff|language=en|quote=...entertainer Mika X, formerly known as Mika Haka...}}</ref>

==Early life== Terrance John Pou was born on 8 February 1962 in Timaru, New Zealand to Elizabeth Halkett and was adopted at birth by New Zealand European couple Dawn and Bill Gudsell.<ref name=":0">{{cite web|url=https://www.timaru.govt.nz/community/our-district/hall-of-fame/category-three/mika|title=Mika (Neil Gudsell) |publisher=Timaru District Council |date= |accessdate=4 September 2019}}</ref> He came out as gay at age 12. While attending Timaru Boys High School, he played rugby and competed in athletics, including at the national athletics championship.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://e-tangata.co.nz/korero/becoming-mika/|title=Becoming Mika |publisher=E-Tangata |date= 27 October 2018|accessdate=4 September 2019}}</ref> In 1988 Gudsell placed eighth in the inaugural Suzuki World Cup aerobic championships.<ref name="Mazer" />

After high school, Gudsell became a hairdresser in the small suburb of Spreydon, Christchurch; however, after winning New Zealand Flash Dance Championships he quit his job and opened up his own dance studio, Miyake Dance Studio at Peterborough Arts Centre.<ref name=":1">{{cite web|url=https://www.stuff.co.nz/timaru-herald/news/107581397/mikas-colourful-life-portrayed-in-new-biography|title=Mika's colourful life portrayed in new biography |publisher=Stuff.co.nz |date= 6 October 2018|accessdate=4 September 2019}}</ref> In 1982, Gudsell moved to Los Angeles with his boyfriend, an African-American man in the US Navy, for nine months before returning to New Zealand.<ref name="Mazer"/> Gudsell moved to Christchurch in 1984 and attended the New Zealand School of Dance in 1985, but left the school nine months later.<ref name="Mazer" />

== Performance career ==

===Early stage and television work=== In 1985, Gudsell joined Te Ohu Whakaari, a Wellington Maori theatre company which toured nationally and internationally. The next year, he left Te Ohu Whakaari and moved to Dunedin to work on a Te Maori exhibition.<ref name="Mazer" />

He performed his one-man show ''Mahi Whakangahau'' in 1988. During the show, Gudsell performed New Zealand songs, including "I Have Loved Me A Man" by Allison Durbin.<ref name="Mazer" /> The single was released by Warner Music with a music video promoting safe sex.<ref>{{cite web|date=21 September 2008|title=Mika "I Have Loved Me A Man" Music Video|url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=luxH9hwNDgA|publisher=Mika Haka|accessdate=4 September 2019}}</ref>

In 1989, he played Constable Ra in the TV drama Shark in the Park<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.nzonscreen.com/title/shark-in-the-park-series-one-episode-three-1989|title=Shark in the Park – Lamb to the Slaughter (Series One, Episode Three) Television (Full Length Episode) – 1989|publisher=NZ On Screen |date= |accessdate=4 September 2019}}</ref> and also the young Carmen Rupe in the TV biopic ''Carmen''.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.nzonscreen.com/title/carmen-1989/credits|title=Carmen Television (Full Length) – 1989 |publisher=NZ On Screen |date= |accessdate=4 September 2019}}</ref> His solo show ''Neil Gudsell Uncooked'' produced by Merata Mita was performed at the 1990 Adelaide Fringe.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://s3.amazonaws.com/00fmf121f2vmyk8jt2g2.fringe/program_guides/5/original/1990_Guide.pdf|title=1990 Adelaide Fringe Festival program guide |publisher=Australia Fringe Vault |date= |accessdate=4 September 2019}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.komako.org.nz/person/247|title=Neil Gudsell |publisher=Komako |date= |accessdate=4 September 2019}}</ref>

===Stage shows I Loved me a Man, Lava Lover and Pearl Harbour 1990–1994=== [[file:Carmen Rupe and Mikahaka.jpg|thumb|Mika Haka ''(right)'' in 1994 with Carmen Rupe ''(left)'']] In 1990, the single I Have Loved Me a Man was released and reached 46th on the New Zealand music singles charts.<ref name="Mazer" /> The song was produced by Dalvanius Prime, the producer to Poi E. At about this time, Gudsell, under instructions from Dalvanius, changed his name to Mika, a non-binary version of "Mike".

In 1991, Mika released his first song, "Juiced", with producer Alan Jansson. He toured the show "Juiced World Tour" in 1991 and 1992.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://collections.tepapa.govt.nz/object/1435448|title=Poster, 'Mika Juiced' |publisher=Te Papa Museum |date= |accessdate=4 September 2019}}</ref>

Credited as Neil Mika Gudsell, Mika played the minor role of takatāpui man Tahu in the 1993 film The Piano.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.noted.co.nz/culture/culture-books/mika-loved-me-man-life-queer-performance-artist-laid-bare|title=The life of queer performance artist Mika laid bare|publisher=New Zealand Listener |date= |accessdate=4 September 2019}}</ref>

Mika performed at the 1992 Hero Party at Princes Wharf in Auckland, singing his original song "Lava Lover". The performance, which began with a karanga with Mika on top of the stage, included over 300 performers: drag queens, Pacific Island dancers, lesbian taiaha, and men in semen costumes. His backdrop was Keith Haring-inspired art featuring yellow squares with condom symbols and safe-sex messaging. He ended his performance with a gay haka that he created called "Tenei Toku Ure".<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9c6TgGZ135Q|title=Mika's 'Lava Lover' LIVE! |publisher=Mika Haka |date= 9 February 2009|accessdate=4 September 2019}}</ref><ref name="Mazer" /> In the following two years, Mika put on four shows. Despite some setbacks when an agent stole money from him, he was the warm-up act for Grace Jones at Roxy NYC.<ref name="Mazer" />

===Black Carnival, Do U like what U see? and Edinburgh 1995–1999=== Mika was a model for photographer Christine Webster's photograph Mika: Kai Tahu.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://christchurchartgallery.org.nz/collection/95-99/christine-webster/mika-kai-tahu|title=Christine Webster Aotearoa New Zealand, b.1958 Mika: Kai Tahu |publisher=Christchurch Art Gallery |date= |accessdate=4 September 2019}}</ref>

In 1996, Mika released his first debut album titled ''Do U Like What U See''.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://natlib.govt.nz/records/22138662?search%5Bpath%5D=items&search%5Btext%5D=mika+haka|title=Do u like what u see [sound recording] / Mika |publisher=New Zealand National Library |date= January 1996|accessdate=4 September 2019}}</ref> A music video was released for the title track.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SfXbHiRykoI|title=Mika 'Do You Like What You See' Music Vide|publisher=Mika Haka |date= 8 September 2008|accessdate=4 September 2019}}</ref>

Mika performed at the 1997 Edinburgh Fringe Festival. He was cast in the Rocky Horror Picture Show at the Timaru Theatre in October 1997.<ref name="Mazer" />

In 1998, Mika collaborated with composer Gareth Farr and Mark James Hamilton on the show Ahi Ataahua.<ref name="Mazer"/> The show was first performed at Danspaleis in Wellington and then later at the 1998 Edinburgh festival.<ref name="Mazer" /> Mika collaborated with Mark James Hamilton on multiple projects over six years including The Angel Tour, Tribal Hollywood, Mika Haka, Rawaka and on TV with Mika Live and Te Mika Show.<ref name="Mazer" />

On 1 November 1998, Mika performed on the Stonewall Equality Show 1998 at the Royal Albert Hall,<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.lifeofbryan.co.uk/page378/|title=Stonewall Equality Show|publisher=Life of Bryan |date= |accessdate=4 September 2019}}</ref> and then toured internationally.<ref name="Mazer" />

===Mika Haka, Torotoro, Te Plastic Māori and return to TV 2000–2009=== In 2000, Mika created a dance company, Torotoro, with Mark Hamilton and 10 young Māori and Pacific Island performers. They were the subject of a documentary, ''Mika Haka Kids''.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=d-RJx18Daf4|title=Mika Haka Kids |publisher=Mika Haka |date= 21 September 2008|accessdate=4 September 2019}}</ref> They performed several times at the Edinburgh Festival.<ref name="Mazer"/>

Mika's second album, ''Mika Haka'', was released in 2001.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://natlib.govt.nz/records/21719583?search%5Bpath%5D=items&search%5Btext%5D=mika+haka|title=Haka [sound recording] / Mika |publisher=New Zealand NAtional Library |date= January 2001|accessdate=4 September 2019}}</ref> Torotoro dancers featured in music videos for the songs "Ahi Atāahua"<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CFF1E1mputs|title=Mika – Ahi Ataahua (Beautiful Fire) |publisher=Mika Haka |date= 18 September 2006|accessdate=4 September 2019}}</ref> and "Wera Wera".<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DhsQZxVn268|title="Werawera" By Mika and Torotoro |publisher=Mika Haka |date= 19 September 2006|accessdate=4 September 2019}}</ref>

In 2004, Mika starred in his own TV variety show on Maori Television, ''Mika Live'' which first aired on 28 March. It was renamed ''Te Mika Show'' in 2006.<ref name="Mazer" />

In 2005, Mika performed with a metal band Te Plastic Māori, including at the Montreal Fringe Festival in 2005. Their song Poti was nominated at the APRA MAIOHA awards in 2007.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=49UcJtcK244|title=Mika & Te Plastic Maori – POTI |publisher=Mika Haka |date= 8 September 2008|accessdate=4 September 2019}}</ref>

===Aotea Centre, Mika Versus Fashion, Rugby World Cup, Salon Mika 2010–2013=== In March 2010, alongside the Auckland Philharmonia Orchestra, Mika performed at the ASB Theatre at Aotea Centre to open the Aroha Festival.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.eventfinda.co.nz/2010/mar/auckland-cbd/po-beautiful-darkness-auckland-philharmonia-orchestra|title=Mika and the APO – Pō A Tribal Pop Opera|publisher=Eventfinda |date= 12 March 2010|accessdate=4 September 2019}}</ref> The show was a gala-like event that featured performances that were in the festival and Mika performing his greatest hits including "Lava Lover" and "Do U Like What U See".<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.theatreview.org.nz/reviews/review.php?id=2896|title=MUCH TO COMMEND BUT LOSES ITS WAY |publisher=Theatre View |date= |accessdate=4 September 2019}}</ref> Later in that year, Mika released his third album, ''Mika Versus Fashion''. The album featured seven songs performed in Māori, English, Spanish and French, instrumentals of those songs, and a cover of "La Vie en rose". The album can be described as techno-dance and electronica.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://open.spotify.com/album/7rkv9Rb87xnoTINz5GtG3X?si=cbi1771qT1izjLu9o0RkZg|title=Mika Versus Fashion |publisher=Spotify |date= |accessdate=4 September 2019}}</ref>

On 23 September 2011, Mika put together the largest show of his career called Mika's Aroha Mardi Gras. As part of the 2011 Rugby World Cup that happened in New Zealand, Mika put on a free outdoor concert at the Takutai Square, Britomart, in downtown Auckland.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.eventfinda.co.nz/2011/sep/auckland/mikas-aroha-mardi-gras|title=Mika's Aroha Mardi Gras |publisher=Eventfinda |date= 23 September 2011|accessdate=4 September 2019}}</ref> The show had over 760 performers and it took months of rehearsals before the event took place. The show played twice on the same day with the first show going from 6 pm to 7:30 pm and second show from 8 pm to 10 pm, with thousands of people attending both times. The second show was prerecorded and broadcast on Māori TV on 14 October 2011.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://mika.co.nz/screen/article/mikas_aroha_mardi_gras.html|title=MIKA'S AROHA MARDI GRAS MĀORI TV SPECIAL |publisher=Mika Haka |date= |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200117065511/http://mika.co.nz/screen/article/mikas_aroha_mardi_gras.html |accessdate=4 September 2019|archive-date=17 January 2020 }}</ref> The event happened at the same time as Ireland v Russia and Argentina vs Scotland in the Rugby World Cup. The event featured Rena Owen as the storyteller and MC for the evening, and Mika performing his well known singles, "In the morning" (feat Keisha Castle-Hughes), Lava Lover RWC version (feat Edward Ru),<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nglZ8jRDKfk|title="Lava Lover" – Mika, Ed Ru, Pearls of Meganesia & TamaSa |publisher=KalifeTV |date= 17 October 2011|accessdate=4 September 2019}}</ref> "Wera Wera" (feat Erakah),<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.stuff.co.nz/auckland/5661413/Mardis-Gras-celebrates-Kiwi-love|title=Mardis Gras celebrates Kiwi love|publisher=Stuff.co.nz |date= 21 September 2011|accessdate=4 September 2019}}</ref> Taniwha (feat Te Tai Tonga),<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0UFXRM7muFk|title="Taniwha" By Mika – Mika's Aroha Mardi Gras |publisher=Mika Haka |date= 5 December 2011|accessdate=4 September 2019}}</ref> Caged Animals (feat Kiri Nathan), Friend (feat everyone), and "Get It On" a remix of an earlier song called Spoof. In 2012, Mika assumed the role as chair person for the non-profit organisation, "Ngā Aho Whakaari".<ref>{{cite book |last=Henry |first=Ella |author-link=Ella Henry |date=2013 |title=The Brown Book Maori in screen production |publisher=Ngā Aho Whakaari |isbn=9780473250669}}</ref> Ngā Aho Whakaari is a not-for-profit Incorporated Society that represents Māori who work in the New Zealand screen industry. Mika ended his role in 2013. In 2013, Auckland had its own Fringe Festival. Mika did a season of cabaret shows with a live band and special guest including Megan Alatini at one of Auckland's busiest nightclubs "Switch Bar". The show was called "Salon Mika". Mika went on to perform eight shows during the festival, to a sell-out crowd.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.eventfinda.co.nz/2013/salon-mika/auckland|title=Salon Mika |publisher=Eventfinda |date= 13 February 2013|accessdate=4 September 2019}}</ref> With the success of Salon Mika, he decided to take the cabaret show on tour across the world.

===Dress to Express, Coffee, Loved Me a Man 2014–2016=== On Waitangi Day 2014, Mika put together a small variety show at one of Auckland's nightclubs.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.eventfinda.co.nz/2013/salon-mika/auckland|title=Mika Aroha Mardi Gras |publisher=Eventfinda |date= 13 February 2013|accessdate=4 September 2019}}</ref> At the end of the event, Mika performed his new single "Dress to Express" featuring Zakk d'Larté and Hannah Martin. The single produced a music video with all three dancing and singing the song with special effects.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5MIX8vaPMSc|title=Mika Haka – Dress To Express ft. Hannah Martin & Zakk d'Larté |publisher=Mika Haka Studio |date= 17 March 2014|accessdate=4 September 2019}}</ref> The single reached the top 40s on the iTunes New Zealand Charts. The success of the song led to releasing another single later in the year. This time releasing the remixed version of "Coffee" Featuring Lavina Williams. The single also produced a music video that featured well known LGBT members of the community.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tYXHgR_vS3o|title=Mika Haka – Coffee ft. Lavina Williams |publisher=Mika Haka Studio |date= 3 July 2014|accessdate=4 September 2019}}</ref> On 1 May 2016, Mika put on a one-day festival similar to the 2011 Mika Aroha Mardi Gras closing down Karangahape Road to perform on the street.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://gayexpress.co.nz/2016/04/mika-haka-revivify-aroha-mardi-gras/|title=Mika Haka to Reviviy Aroha Mardi Gras |publisher=Gay Express |date= 5 April 2016|accessdate=22 September 2019}}</ref> The event was called "Mika Aroha Mardi Gras The Red Light District". The event lasted for over seven hours with people flooding the street to attend the event. The event featured Mr Gay World 2013 and New Zealand's Got Talent semi finalist Christopher Olwage, Queens Of Panguru (Ramon Te Wake, Jay Tewake and Maihi Makiha), a music performance from Mika himself and many more performances.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://gayexpress.co.nz/wp-content/uploads/2016/04/arohasced.pdf|title=Mika Aroha Mardi Gra redlight district Setlist |publisher=Gay Express |date= |accessdate=22 September 2019}}</ref> At the festival, some of Queens of Panguru TV series was filmed for the first episode.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZnHCVNjOWD8|title=Queens of Panguru Episode 1 Te Reo Māori Version |publisher=Mika Haka Studios |date= 9 July 2017|accessdate=22 September 2019}}</ref>

On 9 July 2016, New Zealand celebrated the 30 year anniversary of Homosexual Law Reform Act 1986. An event was held at the Skycity Convention Centre called the Rainbow Gala, to celebrate the anniversary.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.stuff.co.nz/national/politics/81937852/rainbow-gala-celebrates-30yearanniversary-of-homosexual-reform-bill|title=Rainbow Gala celebrates 30-year-anniversary of homosexual reform bill |publisher=Stuff.co.nz |date= 9 July 2016|accessdate=4 September 2019}}</ref> Mika Haka opened the event with a branded new song, a remixed version of "Loved Me a Man" featuring Lavina Williams. The music video of the song was released in October 2016. The video showed some of Mika's past performances in music, video and art. It shows Mika singing in a night club in an intimate setting and seeing Mika as a gay Maori Jesus-like character.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nYfxziPQIvk|title=Mika Haka – Loved Me A Man ft. Lavina Williams |publisher=Mika Haka Studio |date= 10 October 2016|accessdate=4 September 2019}}</ref>

===Queens of Panguru, Swimming with Sharks, Salon Mika Live 2017–2019=== Throughout 2016 and 2017, the filming and editing of Queens of Panguru was in production. Mika was the creator, creative designer and executive producer of the TV series. Some of Mika's music also featured in the TV series.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sfNsazURj7E|title=Queens of Panguru Episode 2 Te Reo Māori Version|publisher=Mika Haka Studio |date= 11 July 2017|accessdate=22 September 2019}}</ref> The show was televised weekly on Māori Television, with the premiere on 22 March 2017.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.maoritelevision.com/shows/queens-panguru|title=Queens of Panguru|publisher=Maori TV |date= |accessdate=22 September 2019}}</ref>

In February 2017, Mika released his fourth album, ''Swimming with Sharks''. The album featured dance and electronic versions of his original music including "Swimming with Sharks", "Taniwha" and "In the Morning" which featured Keisha Castle-Hughes.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://music.apple.com/nz/album/swimming-with-sharks/1207795880|title=Swimming with Sharks|publisher=Apple Music |date= 20 February 2017|accessdate=22 September 2019}}</ref> Mika also featured in Costa Kerdemelidis' song "Tango on a Tightrope" from Kermelidis' 2017 album ''The Big Shake''.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://music.apple.com/nz/album/the-big-shake/1221580483|title=The Big Shake |publisher=Apple Music |date= 29 March 2017|accessdate=22 September 2019}}</ref>

In October 2017, Mika put together a charity concert to raise money and supplies for the Auckland City Mission to give to the homeless in Auckland City.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://libel.co.nz/home/2017/10/4/mika-haka-songs-for-homeless|title=Mika Haka: Songs For Homeless |publisher=Libel Music |date= |accessdate=22 September 2019}}</ref> In August 2018, Mika released a Live Album from his Salon Mika caberate show that he performed at the Edinburgh fringe festival.<ref name="Salon Mika Live in Edinburgh">{{cite web|url=https://music.apple.com/nz/album/salon-mika-live-in-edinburgh/1420046939|title=Salon Mika Live in Edinburgh |publisher=Apple Music |date= |accessdate=22 September 2019}}</ref> In June 2019, Mika returned to his hometown of Timaru and accepted 2018 Teschemaker Cup for his contribution to demonstrating outstanding achievement in his chosen field of performing arts at his high school, Timaru Boys' High School.<ref name=":2">{{cite web|last=Rarity|first=Eleanor|date=5 Jun 2019|title=Timaru Boys' High School old boy awarded for outstanding achievement in performing arts|url=https://www.stuff.co.nz/timaru-herald/news/113248129/timaru-boys-high-school-old-boy-awarded-for-outstanding-achievement-in-performing-arts|publisher=Stuff.co.nz|accessdate=22 September 2019}}</ref> On 10 September 2019, it was announced that Mika was cast as Ngati Haua entertainer for "Natives Go Wild" show at the Sydney Opera House.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.timeout.com/sydney/news/the-true-story-of-the-greatest-showman-is-revealed-in-this-opera-house-show-091019|title=The true story of the 'Greatest Showman' is revealed in this Opera House show|publisher=Timeout |date= 10 September 2019|accessdate=22 September 2019}}</ref> He will perform in seven shows between 22 and 27 October.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.sydneyoperahouse.com/events/whats-on/first-nations/2019/natives-go-wild.html|title=Natives Go Wild |publisher=Sydney Opera House |date= |accessdate=22 September 2019}}</ref>

===Aroha Collective and rereleased music 2020=== On 10 April 2020, Mika released his fifth album "The Aroha Collective". The album was originally scheduled to be released on New Zealand's version of Anti-Bullying Day, "Pink Shirt Day" on May 18, but due to the COVID-19 pandemic in New Zealand Mika released the album early to give provide content during lockdown. The album was a collaboration album sung in Te Reo featuring artists including Lavina Williams, King Homeboy, Yorke and Te Amo.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.muzic.net.nz/news/9950/the-aroha-collective.html|title=Music News - The Aroha Collective |publisher=Muzic NZ |date= 6 May 2020|accessdate=28 May 2020}}</ref> On July 13, Mika rereleased his album "Mika Haka" for Matariki and the 20th anniversary since the original release.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.scoop.co.nz/stories/CU2007/S00044/mika-haka-releases-his-self-titled-album-on-20th-anniversary.htm|title=Mika Haka Releases His Self-Titled Album On 20th Anniversary |publisher=Scoop |date= |accessdate=7 July 2020}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=L-oQj56_CBc|title=Gurl (2020) - Short Film Trailer |publisher= NZIntFilmFestival |date= 24 June 2020|accessdate=7 July 2020}}</ref>

=== Singing the national anthem 2023 === On the 28 May 2023, Mika performed the New Zealand national anthem at the historical Lani Daniels vs Alrie Meleisea IBF world heavyweight title fight.<ref name="New Zealand Herald">{{cite web|url=https://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/boxing-lani-daniels-pipiwai-has-a-heavyweight-world-champion/RSYVTWI5NRAEXOSLG5WW5JAE6U/|title=Boxing: Lani Daniels: Pīpīwai has a heavyweight world champion|publisher=New Zealand Herald|date=2023-05-28 |accessdate=2023-05-28}}</ref> The event was televised internationally in FITE and in New Zealand on Sky TV Sky Sports.

== Directing career == === ''GURL'' === {{Main|GURL}} Mika directed, wrote, produced, and played the lead role in the short film ''GURL'' about the life of drag queen Carmen Rupe. Production began in 2019 and the 20-minute film premiered at the 2020 New Zealand International Film Festival as part of a collection of Māori and Pasifika short films.<ref>{{Cite web|title=Ngā Whanaunga Māori Pasifika Shorts 2020|url=https://www.nziff.co.nz/2020/archive/nga-whanaunga-maori-pasifika-shorts-2020/|access-date=28 May 2021|website=nziff.co.nz}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|title=GURL teaser for Carmen biopic|url=https://www.waateanews.com/waateanews/x_news/MjQ4MjM/Paakiwaha/GURL-teaser-for-Carmen-biopic|access-date=2021-05-28|website=www.waateanews.com|date=23 June 2020 |language=en}}</ref> Mika also wrote the album soundtrack to the movie which released on 24 July 2020.<ref>{{Cite web|title=Short film on Kiwi transgender woman Carmen Rupe to premiere|date=15 July 2020|url=https://www.stuff.co.nz/timaru-herald/news/122141840/short-film-on-kiwi-transgender-woman-carmen-rupe-to-premiere|access-date=2021-06-17|language=en-US}}</ref>

==Conviction for attempting to dissuade a witness== In April 2017, Mika X met with a person who had been sexually abused by businessman and arts patron James Wallace. Wallace was facing charges over the abuse, and the victim was someone who wanted to get into the entertainment industry. Mika offered to pay the victim $15,000 to drop the charges. Mika also offered the victim work in the Gold Coast and the United States.<ref name=":3" /><ref>{{Cite web |last=Owen |first=Catrin |date=2023-06-28 |title=Prominent businessman convicted of sexually abusing three men can now be named |url=https://www.stuff.co.nz/national/crime/300916219/prominent-businessman-convicted-of-sexually-abusing-three-men-can-now-be-named |access-date=2023-06-28 |website=Stuff |language=en}}</ref>

In April 2018, Mika was charged for attempting to pervert the course of justice. He was granted temporary name suppression while on trial. The trial was originally scheduled in June 2020, but due to COVID-19 it was postponed. In February 2021, Mika pleaded guilty on two counts of attempting to pervert the course of justice, and on 30 March 2021, he was sentenced to 11 months of home detention.<ref name=":3">{{cite web |title=Kiwi entertainer Mika X sentenced to home detention for attempts to derail rich-lister's trial |url= https://www.nzherald.co.nz/business/kiwi-entertainer-mika-x-sentenced-to-home-detention-for-attempts-to-derail-rich-listers-trial/TFTLTXERDAUQN3UGGCPGDK34QU/ |publisher=New Zealand Herald |date=30 March 2021 |accessdate=30 March 2021 }}</ref> James Wallace was found guilty of three counts of indecent assault and two counts of attempting to pervert the course of justice; he was jailed for two years and four months.<ref>{{cite web |title=Prominent businessman's trial: Rich-lister found guilty of all indecent assault and corruption charges |url= https://www.nzherald.co.nz/business/prominent-businessmans-trial-rich-lister-found-guilty-of-all-indecent-assault-and-corruption-charges/6TU54JWCSNTRNOXMHICYRL4G5A/ |publisher=New Zealand Herald |date=23 March 2021 |accessdate=30 March 2021 }}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|last1=Mau|first1=Alison|last2=Owen|first2=Catrin|date=2021-05-27|title=Prominent businessman jailed for sexual assaults and bribing witness|url=https://www.stuff.co.nz/national/crime/300317786/prominent-businessman-jailed-for-sexual-assaults-and-bribing-witness|access-date=2021-05-27|website=Stuff|language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|last=Church|first=Logan|date=2021-05-27|title=Prominent Kiwi businessman headed to prison for indecently assaulting men, trying to cover it up|url=https://www.tvnz.co.nz/one-news/new-zealand/prominent-kiwi-businessman-headed-prison-indecently-assaulting-men-trying-cover-up|access-date=2021-06-17|website=One News|language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|last=Bell|first=Jean|date=2021-08-17|title=Prominent businessman convicted of indecent assault released on bail|url=https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/national/449364/prominent-businessman-convicted-of-indecent-assault-released-on-bail|access-date=2021-10-08|website=Radio New Zealand|language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Hurley |first=Sam |date=2023-02-27 |title=Prominent wealthy businessman returns to prison after appeals dismissed but suppression remains |url=https://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/prominent-wealthy-businessman-returns-to-prison-after-appeals-dismissed-but-suppression-remains/2Q4JIECH4RDOTLIUIHQLG7VCX4/ |access-date=2023-05-13 |website=New Zealand Herald |language=en}}</ref>

==Politics== Mika stood for The Opportunities Party in Auckland Central at the 2017 New Zealand general election, and was ranked tenth on TOP's party list. He came fourth in the electorate, with 681 votes, and did not enter Parliament.<ref>{{cite web |title=Official Count Results -- Auckland Central (2017) |url= http://www.electionresults.govt.nz/electionresults_2017/electorate-details-01.html |publisher=Electoral Commission |date=7 October 2017 |accessdate=7 October 2017}}</ref>

==Discography== ===Singles=== * "I Have Loved Me a Man" (1990) * "Juiced" (1991) * "Lava Lover" (1992) * "Do U Like What U See?" (1996) * "My Angel" (2000) * "Ahi Ataahua" (2001) * "Werawera" (2001) * "Poti with Te Plastic Maori" (2007) * "The Closer I Get to You" feat. Mirrah (2008) * "Dress to Express" feat. Zakk d'Larté and Hannah Martin (2014) * "Coffee" feat. Lavina Williams (2014) * "Loved Me a Man" feat. Lavina Williams (2016)

===EPs=== * ''Juiced'' (1992)

===Albums=== * ''Do U Like What U See'' (1996) * ''Mika Haka'' (2001, rereleased in 2020) * ''Mika Versus Fashion'' (2010) * ''The Aroha Collective'' (2020) * ''Gurl The Movie soundtrack'' (2020)

===Remix album=== * ''Swimming with Sharks'' (2017)

===Live albums=== * ''Kapai Kabaret'' (1996) * ''Salon Mika Live in Edinburgh'' (2018)

===Other appearances=== {| class="wikitable plainrowheaders" style="text-align:center;" ! scope="col" style="width:18em;"| Title ! scope="col"| Year ! scope="col"| Artist(s) ! scope="col"| Album ! scope="col"| Note |- ! scope="row"| "Tango on a Tightrope" | 2017 | Costa Kerdemelidis | ''The Big Shake'' | |}

==Performances and tours==

{| class="wikitable" ! Tour Name ! Location ! Dates ! Number of Shows ! Ref |- | Juiced Tour | World | 1991–1992 | – |<ref>{{Cite web|last=Guthrie|first=Alistair |date=1992|title='Mika Juiced' poster|url=https://collections.tepapa.govt.nz/object/1435448|access-date=2021-05-29|website=Te Papa Museum of New Zealand|language=en}}</ref><ref name="Mazer" /> |- | Hero Party | Princes Warf, Downtown Auckland, New Zealand | 1992 | 1 |<ref name="Mazer" /><ref>{{Cite web|last=X|first=Mika |date=1992|title=Mika's 'Lava Lover' LIVE!|url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9c6TgGZ135Q|website=Youtube|language=en}}</ref> |- | Kapai Kabaret | La Cucina Bistro & Bar, Auckland, New Zealand | 15–25 August 1995 | 10 |<ref>{{Cite web|date=1995|title=Kapai kabaret [sound recording] / Mika. |url=https://natlib.govt.nz/records/20935436|website=National Library of New Zealand|language=en}}</ref> |- | Kapai Kabaret | Taki Rua Theatre, Wellington, New Zealand | 13–23 December 1995 | 10 |<ref>{{Cite web|last=Hoeflak|first=Arjan |date=1995|title=The Starfish Enterprise presents "Kapai Kabaret", starring Mika. Taki Rua Theatre|url=https://natlib.govt.nz/records/33015690?search%5Bi%5D%5Bname_authority_id%5D=-116127&search%5Bpath%5D=items|website=National Library of New Zealand|language=en}}</ref> |- | Stonewall Equality Show 1998 | Royal Albert Hall | 1998 | 1 |<ref name="Mazer"/><ref>{{Cite web|date=1998|title=Stonewall - 1998 Equality Show|url=https://catalogue.royalalberthall.com/Record.aspx?src=CalmView.Performance&id=Aipapuvies_Noh&pos=2|website=Royal Albert Hall|language=en}}</ref> |- | Mika and the APO – Pō A Tribal Pop Opera | ASB Theatre, Auckland, New Zealand | 12 March 2010 | 1 |<ref>{{Cite web|date=2010|title=PO A Tribal Pop Opera |url=https://www.theatreview.org.nz/production/po-a-tribal-pop-opera/#|website=Theatre Review|language=en}}</ref> |- | Mika Versus Fashion – CD Launch | The Crib, Auckland, New Zealand | 21 September 2010 | 1 | |- | RWC 2011: Mika's Aroha Mardi Gras | Takutai Square, Auckland, New Zealand | 23 September 2011 | 2 |<ref name="Mazer" /><ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.theatreview.org.nz/reviews/review.php?id=4207|title=UNITY THROUGH DIVERSITY |publisher=Theatre View |date= |accessdate=12 August 2020}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://collections.tepapa.govt.nz/object/1450664|title='Mika's aroha mardi gras' poster |publisher=Museum of New Zealand |date= |accessdate=12 August 2020}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.stuff.co.nz/auckland/5661413/Mardis-Gras-celebrates-Kiwi-love|title=Mardis Gras celebrates Kiwi love |publisher=Stuff |date= 21 September 2011|accessdate=12 August 2020}}</ref> |- | Salon Mika | Switch Bar, Auckland, New Zealand | 13 February 2013 to 23 February 2013 | 8 |<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.theatreview.org.nz/production/salon-mika/|title=SALON MIKA |publisher=Theatre Review |date= 2013}}</ref> |- | Tribute to Carmen Rupe with the Auckland Philharmonia Orchestra | Town Hall, Auckland, New Zealand | 11 March 2013 | 1 | |- | Mika's Aroha Mardi Gras | Legend Bar, Auckland, New Zealand | 6 February 2014 | 1 |<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.stuff.co.nz/business/9624637/Money-is-the-key-to-freedom|title=Money is the key to freedo |publisher=Stuff.co.nz |date= 9 February 2014|accessdate=13 August 2020}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.eventfinda.co.nz/2014/mikas-aroha-mardi-gras/auckland|title=Mika's Aroha Mardi Gras |publisher=Eventfinda |date= |accessdate=13 August 2020}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.stuff.co.nz/entertainment/events/9689117/Auckland-Pride-Festival-a-time-to-celebrate|title=Auckland Pride Festival a time to celebrate |publisher=Stuff.co.nz |date= 5 February 2014|accessdate=13 August 2020}}</ref> |- | Auckland Pride Gala | Q Theatre, Auckland, New Zealand | 7 February 2014 | 1 |<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.pridenz.com/gaynz/14565.html|title=Auckland Pride Festival a time to celebrate |publisher=Pride NZ Archive |date=2014}}</ref> |- | Big Gay Out | Coyle Park, Auckland, New Zealand | 9 February 2014 | 1 | |- | Room 1334 | Basement, Auckland, New Zealand | 14 February 2015 | 1 |<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.theatreview.org.nz/production/the-aroha-project-room-1334/|title=THE AROHA PROJECT - Room 1334|publisher=Theatre Review |date=2015}}</ref> |- | Salon Mika: On the Water | Z Pier Marina, Auckland, New Zealand | 8 March 2015 | 1 | |- | SXSW Room 1334 | Webberville Baptist church, Austin, Texas, USA | 22 March 2015 | 1 |<ref>{{cite web|url=https://gayexpress.co.nz/2015/02/mikas-overseas-exploits/|title=Mika's Overseas Exploits |publisher=Gay Express |date=6 February 2015}}</ref> |- | Mika's Aroha Mardi Gras: The Red Light District | Karangahape Road, Auckland, New Zealand | 1 May 2016 | 1 |<ref>{{cite web|url=https://gayexpress.co.nz/2016/04/mika-haka-revivify-aroha-mardi-gras/|title=MIKA HAKA TO REVIVIFY AROHA MARDI GRAS |publisher=Gay Express |date= 5 April 2016|accessdate=13 August 2020}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://gayexpress.co.nz/2016/04/mika-releases-full-schedule-2016-aroha-festival-arts/|title=MIKA RELEASES FULL SCHEDULE FOR THE 2016 AROHA FESTIVAL OF ARTS |publisher=Gay Express |date= 29 April 2016|accessdate=13 August 2020}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZnHCVNjOWD8 |title= Queens of Panguru {{!}} Episode 1 {{!}} Te Reo Māori Version |publisher=Mika Haka Studio |date=9 July 2017 |accessdate=7 August 2020}}</ref> |- | Rainbow Gala celebrates 30-year-anniversary of homosexual reform bill | SkyCity Convention Centre, Auckland, New Zealand | 9 July 2016 | 1 | |- | Family Bar's Big Eleventh Birthday! | Family Bar K Road, Auckland, New Zealand | 14 August 2016 | 1 | |- | All-Stars Gala Fundraiser | Halo Bar & Restaurant, Auckland, New Zealand | 18 February 2017 | 1 |<ref>{{cite web|url=https://2017.aucklandpride.org.nz/events/all-stars-gala-fundraiser/|title=All-Stars Gala Fundraiser |publisher=Auckland Pride Festival |date= 18 February 2017}}</ref> |- | Pō - Beautiful Darkness | St Matthew Church, Auckland, New Zealand | 10 October 2017 | 2 |<ref>{{cite web|url=https://heartofthecity.co.nz/auckland-events/mika-haka-po-beautiful-darkness|title=Archived: Mika Haka - Pō Beautiful Darkness |publisher=Heart of the city |date=2017}}</ref> |- | Natives Go Wild | Sydney Opera House | 22–27 October 2019 | 7 |<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.theguardian.com/stage/2019/oct/23/natives-go-wild-review-first-nations-circus-is-a-potent-mix-of-defiance-and-triumph|title=Natives Go Wild review – First Nations circus is a potent mix of defiance and triumph |publisher=Guardian |date=2019}}</ref> |- | Big Gay Out | Coyle Park, Auckland, New Zealand | 9 February 2020 | 1 | |- | NZ Spirit Festival | Tanglewood Retreat | 27 February 2020 | 1 | |- | Lani Daniels vs Alrie Meleisea Next World Champion | Eventfinda Stadium | 27 May 2023 | 1 |<ref name="New Zealand Herald"/> |}

==Filmography== {{main|Mika X filmography}}

==Awards== {| class="wikitable" ! style="text-align: center;" | Year ! style="text-align: center;" | Award Ceremony ! style="text-align: center;" | Award ! style="text-align: center;" | Work ! style="text-align: center;" | Art ! style="text-align: center;" | Result ! style="text-align: center;" | Ref |- | style="text-align: center;" | 2007 | style="text-align: center;" | APRA Maioha Award | style="text-align: center;" | Best Te Reo Maori song of the year | style="text-align: center;" | Poti with Te Plastic Maori | style="text-align: center;" | Music | {{nom}} | style="text-align: center;" | <ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.undertheradar.co.nz/utr/more/NID/519/Finalists-for-the-Silver-Scroll-Awards-2007.utr|title=Finalists for the Silver Scroll Awards 2007 |publisher=Under the Radar |date= |accessdate=11 September 2019}}</ref> |- | style="text-align: center;" | 2009 | style="text-align: center;" | New Zealand Qantas TV Awards | style="text-align: center;" | Best Popular Documentary | style="text-align: center;" | Mika Haka Kids | style="text-align: center;" | Television |{{nom}} | style="text-align: center;" | <ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.thebigidea.nz/work/enterprise-news/2009/aug/59303-qantas-tv-awards-finalists|title=Qantas TV Awards finalists |publisher=The Big Idea |date= 10 August 2009|accessdate=11 September 2019}}</ref> |- | style="text-align: center;" rowspan="2"| 2013 | style="text-align: center;" rowspan="2"| Auckland Fringe Festival Awards | style="text-align: center;" | Best Performance | style="text-align: center;" rowspan="2"| Salon Mika | style="text-align: center;" rowspan="2"| Music | {{Won}} | style="text-align: center;" rowspan="2"| <ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.scoop.co.nz/stories/CU1303/S00267/and-the-winners-are-auckland-fringe-awards-2013.htm|title=And The Winners Are... Auckland Fringe Awards 2013 |publisher=Scoop |date= |accessdate=11 September 2019}}</ref> |- | style="text-align: center;" | Best Production in Cabaret Burlesque |{{Won}} |- | style="text-align: center;" | 2016 | style="text-align: center;" | BTW Promotions | style="text-align: center;" | Charity Award | style="text-align: center;" | Mika Haka Foundation | style="text-align: center;" | Community Work | {{Won}} | style="text-align: center;" | <ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=n0OJAEkBHD8|title=BTW presents Charity award to Mika Haka Foundation |publisher=Watt |date= 23 April 2017|accessdate=11 September 2019}}</ref> |- | style="text-align: center;" | 2019 | style="text-align: center;" | Timaru Boys' High School | style="text-align: center;" | Outstanding Achievement | style="text-align: center;" | Himself | style="text-align: center;" | Performing Arts | {{Won}} | style="text-align: center;" | <ref name=":2" /> |- | style="text-align: center;" rowspan="3"| 2020 | style="text-align: center;" rowspan="2"| NZIFF | style="text-align: center;" | Ngā Whanaunga Māori Pasifika Shorts Best Film Award | style="text-align: center;" rowspan="6"| GURL | style="text-align: center;" rowspan="6"| Short Film | {{nom}} | style="text-align: center;" rowspan="2"| <ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.thebigidea.nz/stories/media-releases/227712-gurl-wins-audience-award|title=GURL Wins Audience Award |publisher=Big Idea|date= 3 August 2020|accessdate=3 August 2020}}</ref> |- | style="text-align: center;" | Ngā Whanaunga Māori Pasifika Shorts CineMāori Audience Award | {{won}} |- | style="text-align: center;" | Wairoa Māori Film Festival | style="text-align: center;" | Whenua Jury - Best Māori Director (Short Film) | {{won}} | style="text-align: center;" | |- | style="text-align: center;" rowspan="3" | 2021 | style="text-align: center;" rowspan="2" | Calcutta International Cult Film Festival<br>(FILMS OF THE MONTH – JAN-FEB 2021) | style="text-align: center;" | Best LGBT Film | {{won}} | style="text-align: center;" rowspan="2" | <ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.hlc-cicff.com/blog/|title=FILMS OF THE MONTH – JAN-FEB 2021 |publisher=CICFF|date= |access-date=8 April 2021}}</ref> |- | style="text-align: center;" | Outstanding Achievement Award | {{won}} |- | style="text-align: center;" | Brazil International Monthly Film Festival | style="text-align: center;" | Best Actor For Mediam Length Film (Awarded to Jay Tewake) | {{Won}} | style="text-align: center;"| <ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.bimiff.com/winners-from-september-21?pgid=kv1c4omf-b1ca4cc9-fa97-49df-8d28-60a85e65e193|title=Brazil International Monthly Film Festival September winners |publisher=Brazil International Monthly Film Festival|date= |accessdate=1 November 2021}}</ref> |}

==References== {{Reflist}}

==Further reading== * Mazer, Sharon. ''I Have Loved Me A Man The Life & Times Of Mika'', Creative Live Series, 2018 {{ISBN|978-1-86940-886-2}}

{{DEFAULTSORT:X, Mika}} Category:20th-century New Zealand artists Category:20th-century New Zealand LGBTQ people Category:20th-century New Zealand male singers Category:21st-century New Zealand LGBTQ people Category:21st-century New Zealand male singers Category:Indigenous LGBTQ people Category:Gay comedians Category:Gay dancers Category:Gay singers Category:Musicians from Auckland Category:New Zealand gay actors Category:New Zealand gay musicians Category:New Zealand LGBTQ comedians Category:New Zealand LGBTQ dancers Category:New Zealand LGBTQ singers Category:New Zealand male comedians Category:New Zealand male dancers Category:New Zealand male film actors Category:New Zealand male television actors Category:New Zealand Māori male singers Category:New Zealand non-binary people Category:Non-binary comedians Category:Non-binary dancers Category:Non-binary gay people Category:Non-binary singers Category:The Opportunities Party politicians Category:People from Timaru Category:Unsuccessful candidates in the 2017 New Zealand general election Category:20th-century New Zealand comedians Category:21st-century New Zealand comedians Category:1962 births Category:Living people

Mika X

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