The power of Māori & Pasifika literature roaring to theatrical life.

The world of Oceania is not small. From the energetic volcanoes of O’ahu to the southern reaches of Aotearoa, she is borderless and vast – and growing bigger by the day. After decades of dismissal and disconnection, her children are closer than ever. It’s time for a reunion.

In Samoan “upu” means “word”.

Curated by award-winning poet Grace Iwashita-Taylor and led by powerhouse director Fasitua Amosa, UPU gives the stage to Oceania’s most electrifying poetry. Ben Brown, Karlo Mila, Albert Wendt and more: UPU is for the trailblazers, the icons and the new writers transforming Aotearoa today.

In UPU, borders disappear and for just over an hour, the theatre becomes a sea of Islands. Be transported across an ocean to hear the voices dealing with colonisation, family, climate change, love, sex, religion, power and tourists.

Performed by a stellar cast of some of the best Tagata Moana actors in Aotearoa NZ: Maiava Nathaniel Lees, Mia Blake, Fasitua Amosa, Nicola Kāwana, Ana Corbett and Shadon Meredith 

Running time is 60 mins no interval. 

Image credit Raymond Sagapolutele

This Show Is Pure Oratory And Storytelling At Its Finest. - Theatrescenes (NZ)

Proudly sponsored by The Guardian