It’s a well known film now turned into a stage production, and its hit the stages of Aotearoa New Zealand.
The famous story of Peter Pan and the magical city of Neverland opens tonight at the ASB Waterfront Theatre in Auckland featuring a couple of Pasifika faces amongst the talented cast.
With a career in acting and performative arts, Tupe Lualua steps on to the stage in the role of Mrs Darling and Mermaid 1.
Lualua has been working hard with the cast and crew for the past four weeks in rehearsal, and is excited for them to showcase their work.
“It’s not my first theatre show, but I think in terms of why it’s so special is the magic that is being created within the show” Lualua said.
“Peter Pan is a classic tale and it’s special to be part of that whole world of magic and imagination. Really looking forward to it”
Lualua has been able to share her experience and knowledge with other younger cast members such as Lotima Pome’e, who plays the character Skate.
It’s something she has enjoyed being able to work with different actors. “There is a lot of young talent within the cast” she said.
“They bring this new young and fresh energy which is so great to the theatre stage. And then alongside that we also have some well versed actors or icons in this industry. Being on stage with them is rewarding”
For Lotima, having established a career in the music and film industry and now transferring to the theatre stage has been a learning experience.
And although he admits that he has not seen the film Peter Pan, being involved in the play has opened his eyes to its magic.
“I love it. It is a new experience to me to be honest, especially coming from their music and film scene. But I love it and I am hoping for more opportunities such as this” Lotima said.
Lotima hopes to add a bit of his singing capabilities and talents to it.
“I try and put my feel and flavour to it and I guess mix with a bit of tha theatre style too. I have a song in the play too which is something I hope to put my best foot forward on it”.
As for Lualua, Peter Pan was a staple in her household growing up and being able to take part in the stage play is a full circle moment. in her career.
“Growing up in New Zealand, a lot of the mainstream culture was things that were fed through us from overseas, mainly America. So pretty much anything that came from there that made us escape and use our imagination especially if it was in animation form.
“I myself was a fan of Hook, but personally I saw myself as more of a lost boy following Rufio”
The show is currently on at the ASB Waterfront Theatre and will run until November 3. Tickets can be purchased here.
