SHEL WE
Created by Tupua Tigafua
2016 - Current
Inspired by the works of renowned American writer Shel Silverstein, Shel We is an enchanting, playfully intriguing and visually stunning dance show created by Tupua Tigafua, a highly accomplished dancer and choreographer and ingenious storyteller of this generation.
Image by Pati Solomona Tyrell
Shel Silverstein was a critically acclaimed writer who wrote books such as Where the sidewalk ends and The Giving Tree. As well as iconic ballads Sylvia's Mother for Doctor Hook and A boy named Sue for Johnny cash. Shel’s brilliant use of metaphorical imagery alongside evocative classical music inspires Tupua’s choreography - ultimately delivering a tribute to his parents, his family and the environment that has inspired him over the years.
“GRAVITY IS DEFIED, LITERALLY, EMOTIONALLY AND METAPHORICALLY"
Theatreview - Wellington
“SWAGGER, SIMPLICITY AND CAPTIVATING DANCE”
Theatreview - Manawatu
Image by Emily Mafile'o
14 Malone Road
By Tupua Tigafua
Malone Road represented diversity, hope and endless possibilities. Where a young Samoan boy and his siblings could practise everyday to become the neighbourhood chatter rings champions or cruise home with their friends to perfect their dance moves and soulful harmonies in the hopes of one day making it big, really big…..in the BIG FRESH talent quest!
1This work is a nostalgic reference to a current circumstance, utilising modern theatre to evolve Tupua’s unique style of creative storytelling.
Image by Pati Solomona Tyrell
CIGGY BUTTS IN THE SAND
Created by Tupua Tigafua
Composer David Long
14th & 15th July 2021
The creative partnership of Tupua Tigafua and David Long will take the audience on a journey of childhood wonder, through to some hard-hitting truths. This work deals with the challenges of global warming, human consumption, and the detrimental effects these actions have in Aotearoa New Zealand and the wider Te Moana-Nui-a-Kiwa Pacific region.
“The beauty of this work is that it is made for your imagination”
Theatreview Wellington
“Ciggy Butts in the Sand stands to shift perspectives and to ease us into a space of unity and hope"
Moana Ete
Image by Pati Solomona Tyrell
CIGGY BUTTS IN THE SAND
Created by Tupua Tigafua
Composer David Long
14th & 15th July 2021
The creative partnership of Tupua Tigafua and David Long will take the audience on a journey of childhood wonder, through to some hard-hitting truths. This work deals with the challenges of global warming, human consumption, and the detrimental effects these actions have in Aotearoa New Zealand and the wider Te Moana-Nui-a-Kiwa Pacific region.
“The beauty of this work is that it is made for your imagination”
Theatreview Wellington
“Ciggy Butts in the Sand stands to shift perspectives and to ease us into a space of unity and hope"
Moana Ete