Curated by GRACE IWASHITA-TAYLOR

Directed by FASITUA AMOSA

Presented by PANNZ

The power of Māori and Pasifika literature comes 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.

UPU means word. UPU gives the stage to some of Oceania’s most electrifying poets: artists like Maualaivao Albert Wendt, Selina Tusitala Marsh, Briar Grace-Smith, Karlo Mila, Hone Tūwhare,Sia Figiel, Ben Brown – they all have a home here.

In UPU, borders disappear and 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.

"This show is pure oratory and storytelling at its finest" - Theatrescenes

AUDIO DESCRIBED PERFORMANCE & TOUCH TOUR AVAILABLE FOR BLIND AND LOW-VISION AUDIENCES

Audio Described performances provide a live audio commentary by passionate professionals from Audio Described Aotearoa where they describe the actions onstage.

This commentary is relayed to blind and low-vision patrons via an earpiece which can be booked in advance. Touch Tours are held one hour before the show. Patrons can walk through the set, touch props, feel costumes and familiarise themselves with visual and sensory materials in the performance. A complimentary companion ticket is available when booking.

5.30pm: Touch Tour (30 minutes)

6.30pm: Performance (60 minutes, no interval)

To book a place on the touch tour and the audio described performance of UPU, please contact us at access@taurangafestival.co.nz or 0212254560.