Arts

Nina Nawalowalo returns home By Samantha Magick When director Nina Nawalowalo shared her film, A Boy Called Piano at the Samabula Juvenile Centre late last year, she was struck by the scenes that resonated with its young audience. The movie centres on the journey of Fa’amoana John Luafutu and his son Matthias. Fa’amoana moved to […]

By Samantha Magick In an age where art is increasingly digitally-manipulated, there is no mistaking the artist’s hand in the work of Su Elliott. Elliott likes to leave the faint traces of her erasures and evidence of her brush strokes in her finished works. “To me it is important for whoever’s looking at the work […]

By Debbie Singh In September 2022, the VOU Dance Company in Fiji was awarded a grant of almost €180,000 through an African Caribbean Pacific (ACP) – European Union (EU) funded project to promote the sustainability of cultural and creative industries in the Pacific. The project is implemented by the Pacific Community (SPC) in partnership with […]

By Prerna Priyanka Fijian storyteller and climate activist, Fenton Lutunatabua, is gearing up for the premiere of his debut film ‘Vakaraitaka’ at the Maoriland Film Festival in March. The festival, now in its 11th year, is New Zealand’s premier international Indigenous Film Festival, and provides a platform for diverse voices and perspectives. ‘Vakaraitaka’ is a […]

By Ben Wheeler Take one Swedish pop band – the finest you can find – add a hint of the Italian language, a Greek setting, a universal tale of love lost, and a quest for identity. Bring to the boil with an Irish Australian director and sprinkle liberally with Fijian talent – you can find […]

By Prerna Priyanka Ben Masirewa, who has been dubbed a “one-man musical genius,” is returning to the Fiji Fringe Festival after his blazing performance last year. Masirewa credits his father for instilling a rebellious spirit within him, fostering a love for rock ‘n’ roll and encouraging him to dare to be different.  “He dared me […]

By Samantha Magick and Elizabeth Kolivuso Suva painter Jane Ricketts’ paintings are a window into Fiji’s history and history-makers, iTaukei and Indo-Fijian culture, cityscapes and intimate depictions of her family. Ricketts developed her interest in art at a very young age, at the knee of her grandfather, who painted landscapes. But it was a turning […]

By Rowena Singh “There’s never a last song,” says InsideOut lead singer and guitarist, Apakuki Nalawa about the band’s ability to fill dancefloors. “We have to literally run off the stage. People just don’t want to stop partying, dancing and singing.” InsideOut’s passion, iTaukei lyrics, melody and instrumentation has brought them fame across Fiji and […]

By Prerna Priyanka In the vibrant world of urban and open-style hip-hop dance, TUINZ stands out as a dynamic duo, making waves in Fiji and beyond.  Comprising twins Adriel and Akuila Tuivaga, TUINZ promises an unforgettable showcase of talent, creativity, and a tribute to a dear friend at the upcoming Fiji Fringe Festival. With a […]

By Prerna Priyanka In a blend of creativity and performance, Moana Loa is set to mesmerise audiences at the upcoming Fiji Fringe Festival with a whimsical performance inspired by a childhood favourite. Choreographer Maleina Molia says: “The audience can expect Moana Loa to bring a fun performance to the Fringe Festival with a themed storyline […]

By Prerna Priyanka In a vibrant display of talent and creativity, MATA Dance Crew, a creative dance company based in Suva, is gearing up to captivate audiences at the Fiji Fringe Festival on March 23, 2024. Founded by Tevita Tobeyaweni in 2019, MATA Dance has become a trailblazer in the Fiji dance scene, aiming to […]

By Prerna Priyanka As anticipation for the Fiji Fringe Festival builds, one name stands out among the performers—Skillz Fj, the Sunshine Coast based musician, and a proud advocate for his unique heritage. Since migrating to Australia in 2020, Samuela Konusi Taukave (aka Skillz Fj) has seen his musical career, powered by his vibrant personality and […]

From the moment the first artist in A Dance in 5 Installations slinks along the top of a wall and launches himself onto aerial silks, you are transported on a powerful journey. Choreographer Glenville Lord says the work represents the full circle of his experience, starting as a junior dancer at the Oceania Centre, working […]

By Prerna Priyanka In a ground-breaking initiative aiming for inclusivity in the arts, the Fiji run of MAMMA MIA! The Musical is gearing up for a special ‘accessible performance’ on February 10, 2024. Directed by Michael Payer, this rendition of MAMMA MIA! promises to dazzle audiences while serving as a platform for local talent. The […]