Manusaute VAO SONSof
by Vela
He pou atua, he pou whenua, he pou tangata.
Ko Waitematā te moana
Ko Waikōkota te whenua.
Ko Te Pou Whakamahara a Māui Tikitiki a Taranga te tohu o te kaha, o te kōrero, o te whakapapa o tēnei wāhi, o tēnei whare.
Nau mai e te tī, e te tā ki te whare kōrero, ki te whare whakaari o ASB ki te tahatika o te moana.
Mauri tau, mauri ora!
Pouwhakamahara a Māui-Tikitiki-a-Taranga
The Memorial Post of Māui the Topknot of Taranga
Robert Jahnke ONZM (Ngāi Taharora, Te Whānau a Iritekura, Te Whānau a Rākairoa o Ngāti Porou), 2016
Laminated tōtara and Corten steel
Proudly commissioned by Auckland Theatre Company for ASB Waterfront Theatre
The symbols of support, of strength and of guardianship stand fast and proud.
The waters of Waitematā ebb and flow against the shores here at Waikōkota, the land upon which we stand.
The pou of remembrance to Māui Tikitiki a Taranga stands tall as a beacon of courage, of stories passed down and of the history that connects us all to this place and to this space.
We welcome you all from near and far to this house of stories, to the ASB Waterfront Theatre.
Mauri tau, mauri ora!
18 JUNE – 5 JULY 2026
CAST
To – Haanz Fa'avae-Jackson
Vao – Beulah Koale
Seki – Epine Bob Savea
Sau – Brett Taefu
CREATIVE
Playwright – Vela Manusaute
Co-Directors –
Anapela Polata'ivao & Vela Manusaute
Production Designer – Sean Coyle
Composer – David Long
Sound Designer – Sam Clavis
Engine Room Assistant Director –Sepelini Mua'au
Dramaturg – Stacey Leilua
Voice Coach – Kirstie O’Sullivan
PRODUCTION
Stage Manager – Kasi Valu
Assistant Stage Manager –Tristin Katoa
Production Assistant –Hector Polata'ivao
Head of Electrics – Spencer Earwaker
Technical Operator – Amanda Joe
Audio Mix Engineer – Joel Orme
Set Construction –Grant Reynolds, Zorp Creative
Teaching Artists –
Connor Magatogia & Richard Sikuea
Publicity – Michelle Lafferty, Elephant Publicity
Photography –
Francesca Brugnoli & Andi Crown
Videography – Daryl Wong
Sons of Vao by Vela Manusaute is the fifth production in Auckland Theatre Company’s 2026 season and the world premiere of this work. The script won Best Play by a Pasifika Playwright at the 2021 Adam NZ Play Awards. This production began previews on Thursday 18 June and opened on Saturday 20 June at ASB Waterfront Theatre.
This production is one hour and twenty minutes long, with no interval. It contains haze, strong language, depictions of smoking and themes of family violence.
Please ensure all mobile phones and noise-emitting devices are switched off.
SUPPORT AFTER SONS OF VAO
If you'd like to talk to someone, these free and confidential services are available.
• 1737 | Call or text anytime to talk with a trained counsellor
• Vaka Tautua, 0800 OLA LELEI | Call 0800 652 535 for Pacific support, by Pacific for Pacific
• Shine | Call 0508 744 633 for family violence support, anytime
• General alcohol drug helpline | Call 0800 787 797 or text 8681 for you or someone you love
• Pasifika helpline | Call 0800 787 799 or text 8681 for Pacific support services
• Suicide Crisis Helpline | Call 0508 828 865 anytime
Nau mai, haere mai
A world premiere of a new work by a New Zealand playwright is always a cause for celebration. But, Sons of Vao is even more significant, a historic first for the Auckland Theatre Company main stage: a world premiere by a Niuean playwright.
Vela Manusaute draws from his own experience to tell the story of a family where a father’s love struggles to be expressed, except through his fists. Vela broke the cycle. In finding art, he found a way to grapple with his experience, and, ultimately, forgive his father and find his peace.
Vela is making this work with his wife and creative partner, the awardwinning Anapela Polata'ivao ONZM. They have attracted a powerhouse creative team and each of its members has sensitively applied their craft to layer this work with pathos.
While Anapela can go big, she is also a master of simplicity. She excels in stripping away the artifice between truth and spectator. In this production, Anapela leaves behind the usual Auckland Theatre Company production grandeur in favour of a father circled by his sons, separated from each other by
an invisible forcefield until, devastatingly, they are not. It is brilliant in its conception and flawless in execution.
This simplicity works because our four actors, Haanz Fa'avae-Jackson, Beulah Koale, Epine Bob Savea and making his debut with us, Brett Taefu, are, quite simply, virtuosos of their craft. We are fortunate to see their collective work as they hold the tenderness and toughness of these characters in balance.
The work of Auckland Theatre Company is made possible by Creative New Zealand and Auckland Council through the Auckland Regional Amenities Funding Board. This public-sector investment in our Company is vital and means audiences of Tāmaki Makaurau can have a theatre company that dreams big and tells their stories at scale.
As winter bites, we turn towards two beloved classics: Macbeth and Cabaret, the latter a co-production with Auckland Live. Be sure to be here for both – there’s nothing like the warmth of live theatre.
Jonathan Bielski Artistic Director & CEO
Note from the Playwright
The story of Sons of Vao has resonated within me for a long time. Initially, I hesitated to tell it because of my personal fears: fears of confronting my past, exposing my family and revisiting the complex relationship with my father. However, five years ago, a profound sense of creative courage finally compelled me to begin.
As I delved into this world, words and memories flooded back, imbuing the narrative with life. Each word written required me to face the painful truths of those days, seeking to understand and find peace with my journey. I realised that the only path to this understanding was to confront the past directly.
My relationship with my father was fraught with difficulty. Through a child’s eyes, I perceived only struggle and pain, unable to comprehend the love of the man who brought me into this world. I questioned why, what I had done, and sought answers from a higher power.
His passing more than two decades ago left me with a profound need for reconciliation, both with him and, more importantly, with myself. At his funeral, I stood tearless – an angry young man shaped by an upbringing that left me unable to express love or affection. It has taken years, but finding peace and love as a man, now over fifty years old, has become imperative. This story, therefore, is a journey of forgiveness and celebration.
Sons of Vao is a reflection, looking back and looking forward. The play draws inspiration from my memories of growing up in Niue and New Zealand, finding its heart through the collaborative creative process in the theatre. It is seen through the eyes of a child, a young man and, now, a man with a family, who must forgive and find joy in life.
Today, I recognise the necessity of releasing the past. This play allows me to revisit those years with courage and celebrate them within the theatrical space. It embodies my strength and my ability to face the challenges of my history.
This production is an act of forgiveness –a personal journey brought to life on the creative stage. While acknowledging the hardships of the past, I choose to celebrate the present through the power of theatre. The words of the play are invigorated with heart and purpose, and it is through the collective effort of a dedicated team that my journey is shared on stage.
Many years ago, I stood on the wharf with my father, fishing for food. Now, more than forty years later and only a short distance away, I am telling this story at ASB Waterfront Theatre, joined by a team of incredible people who have helped turn this journey into a celebration for the world to see.
I hope you are looking down on me, old man, with love – and love for all.
Vela Manusaute
Note from the Co-Directors
Kia Ora | Fakaalofa Lahi Atu | Talofa Lava
We are proud to present Sons of Vao for Auckland Theatre Company. This production marks a significant milestone: it is the first Niuean play produced by Auckland Theatre Company and the work’s world debut. It brings forth the vital voices of Island men – voices rarely heard or seen in mainstream theatre.
At its core, Sons of Vao is about sons grappling with the legacy of a father who has passed on. They carry the weight of his stories, ultimately seeking peace and forgiveness within themselves. Our process on the creative floor has been to explore these characters and bring the author’s words to life – and it has been an immense joy.
Part of the theatrical magic has been discovering the presentation and design of this world, beautifully created by Sean, Sam and David, and shared intimately within this creative space. Another joy has been allowing the words to speak with truth, heart and, of course, laughter. We embrace laughter, even amidst tears, as it reflects the absolute truth of the world we represent and know.
Key themes we unpack include loss and love, the intricate bond between fathers and sons, and the journey of a man’s personal history brought to light over forty years. This journey of exploration has allowed us to bring this deeply personal story to life and present it with authenticity. We approached the work with no preconceived notions, granted the creative licence to infuse our collective magic and energy into every aspect of the production.
Serving the story’s purpose and bringing it to vibrant life has been immensely rewarding while also significantly demanding. Stacey Leilua and ourselves were among the thirteen pioneering Pacific artists who founded Kila Kokonut Krew
in 2002 and we have been working tirelessly for years to ensure our voices are heard. It has been a gift to collaborate creatively with each other and Stacey. Now, we stand under the bright lights of ASB Waterfront Theatre, celebrating this creative journey together.
The unique presentation style, inspired by years of collaboration, pushes the boundaries of Pacific comedy. This distinctive approach adds a powerful theatrical element that resonates with both Pākeha and Pacific audiences. We are here not just to tell our stories, but to celebrate them on stage, paving the way for young Pacific storytellers who will walk with us into the future.
Our deepest gratitude to Auckland Theatre Company, Jonathan Bielski and Anna Cameron, and the entire Auckland Theatre Company team for their unwavering alofa and trust in bringing this production to fruition.
A huge fa'amālō to our exceptional actors: Beulah Koale, Haanz Fa'avae-Jackson, Epine Bob Savea and Brett Taefu, for trusting us and for your epic and powerful work in Sons of Vao. Thank you, boys.
Thank you, Louise Gallagher and the PANNZ team.
Thank you, Stacey Leilua, for your insightful dramaturgical eye.
Fa'afetai tele lava to our magnificent creative and management team: Sean Coyle, David Long, Sam Clavis, Kasi Valu, Sepelini Mua'au and Hector Polata'ivao-Saute.
Finally, to all our families. Fa'afetai, fa'afetai, fa'afetai tele lava.
Fakaue lahi mahaki, Anapela Polata'ivao and Vela Manusaute
Playwright & Co-Director Vela Manusaute
Vela came to New Zealand in 1979. In 1996, he became the first Niuean to graduate from Toi Whakaari: New Zealand Drama School.
A year later, he received the Best Male Comedy award at the Chapman Tripp Theatre Awards as one half of the comedy duo, The Brownies, widely regarded as Pacific comedy pioneers.
His first-ever play, Taro King, performed in 2002 at the Maidment Theatre in Auckland, was an instant hit. In 2007, he won the Philip Fuemana Award for Most Promising Pacific Artist at the Pacific Music Awards, producing nine original Pacific albums from his South Auckland backyard studio, formerly known as Nafanua Records.
He is passionate about Pacific and South Auckland stories, and, together with his partner, Anapela Polata'ivao ONZM, founded Kila Kokonut Krew, a South Auckland creative space that champions South Side stories for the stage and screen. Vela’s vision was the original idea for Kila Kokonut Krew’s The Factory stage musical, which led to his work as an executive producer and actor on the web series of the same name. Vela and Anapela jointly received the Arts Foundation Te Tumu Toi
New Generation Laureate Award in 2014 for their work with Kila Kokonut Krew.
Vela has continued his success in the screen industry. He directed his first short film, The Messiah, in 2017 which won Best Screenplay and Best Art Direction at the Short Circuit Pacific Rim Film Festival in 2020. He also directed an episode of the spiritual drama series Teine Sā, which aired on PRIME in 2021. Brutal Lives –Mo'ui Faingata'a is a Tongan story Vela co-wrote and directed in Season Two; it was the winner of the Best Pasifika Programme category at the New Zealand Television Awards 2023. His latest project is Descendants of Niue – Tau Hologa Niue documentary for the screen, 2026.
Vela has a rich history of connection with Auckland Theatre Company, collaborating with Manukau Festival of the Arts on Strictly Brown in 2009 and Dario Fo’s We Can’t Pay! We Won’t Pay! in 2010, followed by working as co-director on the main-stage production of Red, White and Brass in 2024.
Sons of Vao is Vela’s first full-length play that has been produced by Auckland Theatre Company for the main-stage. The script won the Adam NZ Play Award for Best Play by a Pasifika Playwright in 2021.
Co-Director Anapela Polata'ivao
Anapela Polata'ivao ONZM is an actor, producer, dramaturg and director from the Sāmoan villages of Vailoa ma Vaiusu in Upolu and Fagae'e Safune in Savai'i.
Anapela co-founded the Kila Kokonut Krew theatre collective with Vela Manusaute in 2002. She was a 2002 graduate of Toi Whakaari: New Zealand Drama School and taught at the Pacific Institute of Pacific Arts. Her vast career has led her to gain multiple awards, including being named an Arts Foundation Te Tumu Toi New Generation Arts Laureate in 2014, Creative NZ’s Pacific Contemporary Artist Award in 2019 and Best Actress in the 2019 Wellington Theatre Awards for her role in Tusiata Avia’s Wild Dogs Under My Skirt.
Anapela gained international acclaim and made history as the first Sāmoan woman to have directed a show off-Broadway when Wild Dogs Under My Skirt made its New York debut and was subsequently named the winner of the Fringe Encore Series at the SoHo Playhouse. In 2019,
she staged her first original Sāmoan opera with Sol3 Mio in South Auckland. She collaborated again with Tusiata Avia on The Savage Coloniser Show in 2023, and the play attracted significant media attention. She directed a theatre adaptation of the film Red, White and Brass for Auckland Theatre Company in 2024. Earlier this year, she directed a production of A View from the Bridge for Silo Theatre, which received widespread critical acclaim.
Her film and TV credits include HBO’s Our Flag Means Death, One Thousand Ropes, The Justice of Bunny King and The Markets. Most recently, Anapela played the lead role of Mareta in the acclaimed New Zealand feature film Tinā, directed by Miki Magasiva, for which she won the award for Best Actress in a Feature Film at the 2025 NZ Screen Awards.
In June 2024, Anapela was recognised in the King’s Birthday Honours List for her services to Pacific performing arts.
Cast
HAANZ FA'AVAE-JACKSON
Alofi, Hakupu, Mutalau (Niue) Ma'ufanga, Tongatapu, Taunga, Vava'u (Tonga) Satalo, Falealili, Moata'a (Sāmoa)
To
TRAINING:
P.I.P.A: Pacific Institute of Performing Arts (2014).
FOR ATC:
Red, White and Brass; O le Pepelo, le Gaoi, ma le Pala’ai; North by Northwest; Dawn Raids; The Life of Galileo; Still Life with Chickens; The Eel and Sina; Inky Pinky Ponky.
OTHER THEATRE INCLUDES:
I Must Not Speak Niuean; Meet the Fakas; The Girl from Niue Island; My name is... Pilitome; Black Faggot.
SCREEN:
400 Weddings And A Funeral; Viva La Dirt League; Red, White and Brass; Duckrockers The Brokenwood Mysteries; My Life is Murder Panthers; Savage; Hibiscus & Ruthless In Dark Places; Mangere Vice.
AWARDS:
Creative New Zealand Emerging Artist Award (2025)
OTHER:
Haanz is a Teacher Aide at Manurewa High School and a member of Island Vibes Funk band.
BEULAH KOALE
Sala'lua, A'ele (Sāmoa) Nanumea (Tuvalu)
Vao
FOR ATC:
Sons.
OTHER THEATRE:
A View from the Bridge; I LOVE YOU G; The Events; Black Faggot.
SCREEN INCLUDES:
Ash; Tinā; Next Goal Wins; The Panthers; Dual; Hawaii Five-0; Thank You for Your Service.
EPINE BOB SAVEA
Salelesi, Safotu (Sāmoa)
Seki
TRAINING:
P.I.P.A: Pacific Institute of Performing Arts (2012).
FOR ATC:
Dawn Raids; Pollyhood in Mumuland; Sinarella.
OTHER THEATRE:
Manamea; Alatini; The Wizard of Ōtāhuhu; THETA.
SCREEN INCLUDES:
Fresh Fairytales; Mama’s Music Box; SIS; Take Home Pay; Hibiscus & Ruthless; Nekrotronic.
BRETT TAEFU
Tanugamanono, Salamumu (Sāmoa)
Sau
TRAINING:
Toi Whakaari: New Zealand Drama School (2022).
FOR ATC:
Sons of Vao is Brett’s debut with Auckland Theatre Company.
OTHER THEATRE INCLUDES:
Kia Mau Festival: O le Pepelo, le Gaoi, ma le Pala’ai.
Le Moana: 14 Malone Road; Tatau. Circa Theatre: D’Things N Such.
SCREEN INCLUDES: My Feet Can’t Touch the Ground; Sonshine.
Brett has contributed to the Pacific arts organisation Le Moana in roles spanning social media coordination, styling and creative promotion, supporting events including Pasifika United, Te Kiwa Nui and the Measina Festival. In 2024, he was awarded a Fale-ship Residency through the
Creative
SEAN COYLE
Production Designer
TRAINING:
Production Diploma, Toi Whakaari: New Zealand Drama School (1993); Graduate Diploma of Dramatic Arts (Design), VCA, The University of Melbourne (1996); Master of Arts (Art and Design), AUT (2006); PhD (Creative Arts), University of Tasmania (2018).
FOR ATC:
Red, White & Brass; The Heartbreak Choir; The Life of Galileo; Paniora!; Wheeler’s Luck; The Shape of Things; The Bellbird; Pollyhood in Mumuland; Sinarella.
OTHER THEATRE INCLUDES: Hāpai Productions: Pakaru. Centrepoint Theatre: At The Wake; Misery; Middle Age Spread; Club Cabaret; Hits of ’74; Boys at the Beach. Circa Theatre: The Surprise Party; The Glitter Garden; Uma Lava; Entertaining Mr Sloane; Closer. Auckland Arts Festival: The Factory. Silo Theatre: Hui.
OTHER:
Alongside his work as a theatre designer, Sean has held significant positions in a number of tertiary educational institutions, including Head of School of P.I.P.A: Pacific Institute of Performing Arts in Auckland for 12 years, Lecturer in Scenography at Victoria University of Wellington (2018 – 2021), Head of Design and Performing Arts Management (2021 – 2022) and Poukōkiri Mātauranga Director of Academics (2023 – 2024) at Toi Whakaari. Sean is currently Head of School: IDEAschool, EIT in Hawke’s Bay.
DAVID LONG
Composer
FOR ATC:
Sons of Vao is David’s debut for Auckland Theatre Company.
OTHER THEATRE
INCLUDES:
Ciggy Butts in the Sand; The Savage Coloniser Show; Little Bits and Add Ons; Ngā Wai.
COMPOSITION FOR SCREEN INCLUDES: The Choir Games; The War of the Rohirrim; Marimari; The Moon is Upside Down; Siouxsie; Mysterious Ways; Touchdown; Punch; Mystic; The Luminaries; The Lovely Bones.
OTHER:
Albums: All Things, Will Stay, Silent; Ash and Bone. Chamber Orchestra: I’ll Hum the First Few Bars. David was a founding member of New Zealand band The Mutton Birds, and has produced albums for a wide variety of artists.
AWARDS:
Emmy Award for Outstanding Music Direction and Composition for a Live Action Program –Secrets at Red Rocks (with Stephen Gallagher, 2026); APRA Award for Best Original Music in a Series – The Luminaries (2020).
SAM CLAVIS
Sound Designer
FOR ATC:
Sons of Vao is Sam’s sound design debut at Auckland Theatre Company. Sam has worked regularly for Auckland Theatre Company in many different technical roles, including Head of Sound and Production Manager on multiple main-stage productions.
DESIGN WORK INCLUDES:
A Slightly Isolated Dog: Our Own Little Mess; Safety in Numbers; The Trojan War; as well as various online works. Other: Alofagia: Le Opera; Te Puhi; WEAVE – Yarns with New Zealanders. Associate Designs for BounceNZ: &Juliet; Mamma Mia!; We Will Rock You.
PRODUCTION WORK INCLUDES:
Te Ahurei Toi o Tāmaki Auckland Arts Festival; NZ International Comedy Festival; Auckland Writers Festival; Pilot Productions; Silo Theatre; Red Leap Theatre; The New Zealand Dance Company; Tempo Dance Festival.
OTHER:
Sam is an Auckland-based sound designer, live sound engineer and production manager. Outside of work, he is the bass guitarist for indie band Cheap Sav for Dead Friends.
SEPELINI MUA'AU
Levī- Sāleimoa, Matāutu Falelātai, Saipipi Savai'i (Sāmoa)
Engine Room Assistant Director
TRAINING:
Bachelor of Arts in Theatre (Hons), Victoria University (2014); Master of Arts in Theatre, Victoria University & Toi Whakaari: New Zealand Drama School (2016)
FOR ATC:
As Engine Room Assistant Director: Helen Clark in Six Outfits
OTHER THEATRE INCLUDES: Direction: U R Here, co-directed with Jo Randerson; Flames: A Hip-Hop Musical; The Handlers, co-directed with Carrie Green.
OTHER:
Alongside his placement in Auckland Theatre Company’s Engine Room programme, Sepelini is currently undertaking a PhD in Theatre, with a focus on decolonising processes and rehearsal practices.
STACEY LEILUA
Waikato Tainui, Ngāti Te Ata Fusi Safotulafai and Papa Sataua (Sāmoa) Dramaturg
TRAINING:
Bachelor of Performing and Screen Arts, Unitec (2003); Creative New Zealand Playmarket Moana Pacific Script Advisor Residency (2025)
FOR ATC:
As Actor: Things That Matter; The Songmaker’s Chair.
OTHER THEATRE INCLUDES:
As Actor: A View from the Bridge; The Savage Coloniser Show; Wild Dogs Under My Skirt; Think of a Garden.
SCREEN INCLUDES: Young Rock
OTHER:
Stacey is an accomplished actor, writer, producer and former director of South Auckland-based theatre company Kila Kokonut Krew. Her performance in the American TV series Young Rock earned her a Hollywood Critics Association Award nomination for Best Actress in a Broadcast Network or Cable Series.
KIRSTIE O’SULLIVAN
Voice Coach
TRAINING:
Voice Studies, The National Institute of Dramatic Art (2006); Toi Whakaari: New Zealand Drama School (1999).
FOR ATC:
Helen Clark in Six Outfits; Agatha Christie’s Murder on the Orient Express; King Lear; Basmati Bitch; Rosencrantz & Guildenstern Are Dead; Red Speedo; Amadeus; The End of the Golden Weather.
OTHER THEATRE INCLUDES: Agaram Productions: Boom Shankar. Massive Theatre Company: Sightings; Chance to Ignite; The Wholehearted; Havoc in the Garden; Whero’s New Net. Silo Theatre: A View from the Bridge; Midsummer; Angels in America; When the Rain Stops Falling; Holding the Man. Pop-up Globe: A Midsummer Night’s Dream; Romeo & Juliet; Hamlet; Julius Caesar; Much Ado About Nothing; Merchant of Venice; Twelfth Night; Measure for Measure; The Taming of the Shrew; Emilia.
SCREEN INCLUDES:
The Dead Lands; Shortland Street; TVC Dialect Coaching; Broadcast Screen Presenter Coaching.
OTHER:
The Voice Practice: HighPerformance Voice Coaching; The Actors’ Program: Head of Voice (2012 – 2019); Unitec Institute of Technology: Voice Lecturer (2007 – 2011).
Thank You
Auckland Theatre Company Supporters
ATC PATRONS GROUP 2026
Co-Chairs The Hon Anne Hinton KC and Lady Dayle Mace MNZM
Patrons Margot & Alastair Acland, Margaret Anderson, Betsy & Michael Benjamin, Louise & Mark Binns, Patrick Bourke, Stephen Brown, Barbie & Paul Cook, Jacqui Cormack & Matthew Olde, Jane & Tiff Day, Annette & Kim Ellis, Jan & Trevor Farmer, Antonia Fisher KC & Stuart Grieve KC, Virginia Fisher & Stephen Fisher QSO, Ruth Foreman, Sir Michael Friedlander KNZM, Andrew Gelonese & Michael Moore, Anna Gibbons, Dame Jenny Gibbs DNZM, Stephanie & Michael Gowan, Joséphine & Ross Green, Sue Haigh, Georgiana Harper & Tim Olphert, The Hon Anne Hinton KC & Peter Hinton, Julie & Rod Inglis, Sally Jackson, Katie Jacobs & Chris Aughton, Stella Johnston, Judy Jordan & Trevor Bayly, Heather & Len Jury, Anita Killeen & Simon Vannini, Philippa Smith Lambert & Chris Lambert, Margot & Paul Leigh, Antonia & Tim MacAvoy, Lady Dayle Mace MNZM & Sir Chris Mace KNZM, Peter Macky & Juma Maya, Charlotte & Ian McLoughlin, Pip Muir & The Hon Kit Toogood KC, Christine Nolan & Derek Nolan KC, Heather Pascual, The Hon Dame Judith Potter DNZM, CBE, Robyn & Malcolm Reynolds, Fran Ricketts, Julie & Russell Tills, Louise & Karl Von Randow, Joan Vujcich, Susan Walker & Gavin Walker ONZM, Lynne Webber & Priscilla McGirr, Ian Webster, Dona & Gavin White
YOUTH COMPANY SUPPORTERS 2026
Co-Leaders Peter Macky and Joan Vujcich
Saints Aaron Boonshoft, Cynthia Braithwaite, Peter Macky & Juma Maya, Joan Vujcich, Ray White Grey Lynn
Angels Andy Eakin & Paul Boakes, Dame Jenny Gibbs DNZM, Charlotte & Ian McLoughlin, Sian & Elias, Jane & Mark Taylor, Ian Webster
Cherubs Sarah Fay, Coriamber Hogan & Martin Kunz, Irene Norbis, Keiko Pulin & Graham Astley, Colin & Maree Reynolds, Fran Ricketts, The Hon Judith Tizard, Anonymous (1)
Friends Brenda & Stephen Allen, Margaret Anderson, Alix & Erich Bachmann, Jonathan Bielski, Susan Buckland, Sarah & Nick Cole, Cumiskey Family, Rosey Eady & David Nicoll, Ron Elliott & Mark Tamagni, Virginia Fisher & Stephen Fisher QSO, Kristen Flannery, Sarah & Martin Gillman, Alexandra Goldkorn & Craig Birch, Sally Jackson, Mary Jean & Len (USA), Michael Kavanagh, Joy Keith, Melissa & Tony Larsen, Margot Leigh, Lesley & Philip Lindesay, McKegg family, Brian McKibbin, Tim Melville, Helen & Hamish Neal, Louise Pagonis, William Peake, The Hon Dame Judith Potter DNZM, CBE, Vaughan Smith, Swinburn family, Kerry Underhill & Daan van Gulik, Joanne & Rob Wills, Sarah Yates, Anonymous (3)
30TH ANNIVERSARY FUND
Visionary Dame Jenny Gibbs DNZM, Jan & Trevor Farmer
Lead Nicole & Guy Domett, Prue Olde & Family
Ensemble Barbie & Paul Cook, Andrew Gelonese & Michael Moore
SUPPORTING ACTS
Standing Ovation Cynthia Braithwaite, Sandy & Alan Bulmer, Claudia Elliott, Dame Jenny Gibbs DNZM, Rosemary Langham, Sue & Murray Lee, Peter Macky & Juma Maya, Shona Old, Liz & Ray Payne, Anonymous (1)
Curtain Call Shirley Bollard, Shane & Richard Compton, The Hon Anne Hinton KC & Peter Hinton, Patricia Holden, Mindy & Mark Levene,
Applause Samuel Baker, Frank Ball, Michael Barley, Carl Davies,
Auckland Theatre Company Partners
ASB Waterfront Theatre Supporters
Accessible Theatre
We believe theatre should be for everyone. Our accessible performances and services make it easier for all audiences to share in the magic of live performance. Our team is here to ensure your visit is welcoming, comfortable and enjoyable.
Audio Described Performance and Touch Tour
Sunday 28 June Touch Tour 2:30pm
Audio Described Performance 4:00pm
Audio described performances feature live commentary from Audio Described Aotearoa. They provide detailed visual descriptions through earpieces to blind and low-vision patrons.
Touch tours, held 90 minutes before the show, allow blind and low-vision patrons and their companions to explore the sets, touch props and costumes, and meet actors. Supported by:
Service Dogs
Service dogs are welcome at the theatre. We can find a seat that’s comfortable for you and your dog, or arrange for staff to look after your dog during the show.
Hearing Assistance
The theatre has a T-Loop radio frequency system to amplify the sound of the performance. If you don’t use a hearing aid or your hearing aid does not have a T setting, there is a listener unit available on request from the box office.
Relaxed Performance
Tuesday 30 June 7:00pm
Relaxed performances are inclusive, welcoming environments for neurodivergent individuals or anyone seeking a less formal theatre experience. They offer a flexible approach without changing the show. Audiences can expect pre-show resources, an open attitude to movement and noise, and breakout space. An optional pre-show demonstration shares lights, sound and surprises so patrons know what to expect from the show. All are welcome.
NZSL Interpreted Performance Friday 3 July 8:00pm
NZSL interpreted performances feature trained interpreters from Platform Interpreting New Zealand, providing live interpretation for Deaf patrons. We reserve great seats for interpreter viewing. Supported by:
Wheelchair Access
ASB Waterfront Theatre has three wheelchair spaces and eight companion seats in the auditorium. There is step-free, level access to all levels of the building and to seating in the stalls. Wheelchair-accessible toilets are located on the ground floor; accessible parking is available on Madden Street.
HOW TO BOOK ACCESS TICKETS
Access tickets for Deaf and disabled patrons are available for $20. One companion ticket per theatre-goer is also available for $20. To find out more and for Deaf and blind/low-vision-friendly booking options, contact us:
Online – atc.co.nz/ticketing-info/accessible-theatre
Phone – call 09 309 3395 | Email – boxoffice@atc.co.nz
At Box Office – visit ASB Waterfront Theatre at 138 Halsey Street, Wynyard Quarter, Auckland
Audio Described Performances – Audio Described Aotearoa Ltd
NZSL Interpreted Performances – Platform Interpreting New Zealand
Deaf Community Engagement Advisor – Rachel Walker
Relaxed Performance Consultants – Stacey Francis, Gabby Hogg, Christopher Michael
Thanks to Katie Querin and Arts Access Aotearoa for your support and guidance.
Sign up to receive news about the accessibility programme: atc.co.nz/ticketing-info/accessible-theatre
AUCKLAND THEATRE COMPANY
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Frances Valintine CNZM (Chair)
Bronwyn Bradley
Karen Ferns
Gabriel Kirkwood (Ngāi Tai ki Tāmaki, Ngāti
Kahungunu ki Te Wairoa, Waikato Tainui, Ngāi Tūhoe)
Tony Larsen
Stacey Leilua (Waikato Tainui, Ngāti Te Ata, Sāmoa: Fusi Safotulafai, Papa Sataua)
Fiona McMillan
Graeme Pinfold
LEADERSHIP
Artistic Director & CEO: Jonathan Bielski
ARTISTIC
Artistic Associate & Casting Director: Benjamin Kilby-Henson
Engine Room Residents 2026: Jthan Morgan (Ngāi Tāmanuhiri, Rongowhakaata; Sāmoa: Magiagi, Sapapāli'i, Lotofaga), Sepelini Mua'au (Sāmoa: Levī- Sāleimoa, Matāutu Falelātai, Saipipi Savai'i), Grace Newton, Talia Pua
Youth Arts Coordinators: Beatriz Garcia, Dan Goodwin
ARTISTIC OPERATIONS
Director, Artistic Operations & Deputy CEO:
Anna Cameron
Director, Production: Kathryn Osborne
Senior Producer: Sums Selvarajan
Company Manager: Lucy Gardner
Head of Learning & Participation: Sam Phillips
Participation Coordinator: Kalia Regan
Production Coordinator: Paige Pomana (Ngāti Porou, Ngāti Rakaipaaka, Rongomaiwahine)
Operations Coordinator: Lyndee-Jane Rutherford
MARKETING & TICKETING
Director, Marketing: Joanna O’Connor
Director, Marketing & Development (acting): Terri Cumiskey
Marketing Manager: Ari Katsoulis
Graphic Designer: Wanda Tambrin
Marketing Executive: Lucy Diver
Ticketing Manager: Bruce Brown
Customer Relationships Manager: Gary Hofman
Ticketing Assistants: Ella Blake Brislen (Ngāi Tahu, Ngāti Kurī), Molly Curnow, Merlia De Ridder, Amy Henwood, Michaela MacFarlane, Katie Peacock, Talia Pua, Toby Swann, Tom Webster, Daphne Zondag
FINANCE & ADMINISTRATION
Director, Finance: Alice O’Connor
Financial Analyst: Dina Abramova
Accountant: Reena Mudliar
Head of Strategy: Natasha Pearce
ASB WATERFRONT THEATRE
Director, ASB Waterfront Theatre: Sharon Byrne
Co-Front of House Managers: Jack Clarkson, Dario Kuschke
Events Manager: Amy Robertson
Venue Technical Manager: Johnny Chen
Technical Administrator: Joseph Noster
Technical Team: T.J. Haunui, Luuk Heijnen, Dominic Halpin, Keira Howat, Mathew Illek, Amanda Joe, Michael Keating, Max Koenig, Dario Kuschke, Max Manson, Louis McKendry, Dave McSmith, Patrick Minto, Aaron Mitchell, Nick Mulder, Joseph Noster, Sho Okumoto, Finlay Pinkerton, Mitchell Rayner, Benny Sarten, Ruby Van Dorp
Front of House Supervisors: Ella Blake Brislen (Ngāi Tahu, Ngāti Kurī), Nat Dolan, Lucie Everett-Brown, Gary Hofman, Sofi Issak-Zade, Vena-Rose Lennane, Pearl McCracken
Front of House: Eloise Cain, Cedric Charles, Ruben Cirilovic, Molly Curnow, Merlia De Ridder, Taylor Finley, Shannon Freeman, Eugene Garry, Mary Grice, Lara Grozev, Shayla Hann, Amy Henwood, Winston Katoanga, Kirsty Leggett, Emre Logan, Michaela MacFarlane, Isla Mayo, Carla Newton, Joseph Noster, Katie Peacock, Finlay Pinkerton, Talia Pua, Tema Pua, Manunui Rainey (Ngāti Tūwharetoa, Ngāi Tūhoe), Zoe Ritchie, Maya Schuman, Ailsa Scott, Emily Smith, Mikaela Stroud, Toby Swann, Hanah Tayeb, Geo Tughushi, Tom Webster, Xanthe Werder, Jessica Winkle, Daphne Zondag
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
Auckland Theatre Company and the cast and crew of Sons of Vao would like to thank the following for their help with this production: Lynette Harris; Patrick Lino; Jonathan Price; Michaela Te Awa Bird; Jason Te Kare; Anna Turner; Dan Williams.
Haanz Fa'avae-Jackson’s mum Ella Hekesi, partner Jeanette and children Jhordan, Jhakaan and Jhayla.
Beulah Koale would like to thank GOD. WIFE. SONS.
Epine Bob Savea’s wife Natasha Tamiano Savea, kids Fa’auolelei Celine Tamiano Savea and Mauga Itiel Tamiano Savea, and mums, Mauga Savea and Valelia Ioane.
Brett Taefu’s partner, son and family.
Four Shells Kava Lounge; Fork Catering; Island Things; Island Vibes; Metita; Niue Arts Festival Group (Matakau Tufuga Fakamotu ha Niue); Sau E Siva Creatives; Saving Hope Foundation.
The cast and crew of Sons of Vao would like to thank God and their wider families for their love and support.
Support the local theatre industry. Please give today.
The New Zealand Actors Benevolent Fund is a charity that exists to help entertainment professionals when they need it most. The fund is currently growing its financial pool so as to provide assistance to past and present industry professionals living with injury, illness or disability. If you appreciate the work that our storytellers and story-makers do, and wish to see them do more, please show your appreciation and make a tax-deductible donation, using the QR code. And, if you so choose, please tell your family and friends about how they can contribute or leave a bequest to the Actors Benevolent Fund in their will.
It’s our 10 Year Anniversary!
The ASB Waterfront Theatre opened in 2016, thanks to many donations, large and small, from theatre-loving Aucklanders.
As we commemorate a decade on stage, the opportunity is here to Take a Seat once again. For a donation of $1,000, you can leave a lasting mark on our theatre with a plaque engraved with a name, message or quote of your choice. This is a great way to show your love for the theatre or commemorate a loved one. There are just 52 plaques left to snap up.
Donate now to make your mark on the theatre and to help us thrive for many more years to come.
Terms and conditions apply.
HOW WAS THE PLAY?
Tell us what you thought of your experience seeing Sons of Vao. Scan the QR code to complete a short survey and help us demonstrate the value of arts and culture in Tāmaki Makaurau.
