Past events are archived for future reference.
CANCELLED: Under the Trees performing 10 and 11 June is cancelled due to circumstances beyond our control.
Under the Trees is a compelling new multimedia theatre work being developed in Shepparton by local Pasifika arts collective Know Your Roots Inc (KYR) and Melbourne-based Pasifika creatives from Pacific Island Creative Arts Australia (PICAA).
Set in present-day Shepparton, this new work will delve into the history of migrant Pasifika farm workers and bring to life their stories along with those of their children who have grown up far from their Island homelands. Weaving together traditional Pasifika music, dance, storytelling and costume with contemporary theatre, this work will highlight the inherent strength, resilience and creativity of Pasifika peoples, while also shedding light on some critical intergenerational issues facing many regional Pasifika communities.
Under the Trees has been developed in between lockdowns over the past two years, with the expert guidance of PICAA creatives including director, playwright and award-winning actor Asalemo Tofete, composer and ethnomusicologist Rita Seumanutafa, and designer and textile artist, Gina Tafea, and features an all local cast and crew of young people and creatives from our local Pasifika communities living here in the Greater Shepparton region.
Under the Trees is a project that has been developed by Know Your Roots as part of its annual Pasifika Festival. This initial creative development and presentation has been funded by Australia Council for the Arts, Creative Victoria and Festivals Australia with support from MAV and Riverlinks.
Artwork credit: Jason Topeto Faitua.
