Pasifika artists Anapela Polotaivao and Posenai Mavaega, are among six individuals recognised for their outstanding contributions to performing arts in Aotearoa in the third annual 2024 FAME Mid-Career Awards.
The FAME Mid-Career Awards are granted to performing artists in New Zealand. Administered by PANNZ (The Performing Arts Network New Zealand) in partnership with The FAME Trust and the Acorn Foundation,
The awards are given in three categories: Contemporary Dance, Classical Music, and Theatre, and two more were added last year. Each award is worth NZ$15,000.
Samoan director and performer Anapela Polota’ivao, won Best Actress in the 2018 Wellington Theatre Awards for her role in Tusiata Avia’s Wild Dogs Under My Skirt, which she also directed.
She made history in 2020 as the first Samoan woman to direct a show off-Broadway, and she mentors emerging artists, leaving a lasting impact on the Pacific arts community.
Posenai Mavaega MNZM has been with Pacific Underground since 1993, working as a writer, recording artist, producer, and music director.
He has worked on notable productions such as “Dawn Raids” and “Sons.” Mavaega previously served as head venue tech at Glen Innes Arts Centre Te Oro, where he supported local artists and community events.
He is committed to nurturing talent, mentoring young artists, and advancing Pacific Underground’s mission.
PANNZ Chief Executive, Louise Gallagher, said, The recipients span diverse cultures and backgrounds and have left indelible marks on the performing arts landscape.
“From pioneering paths for women in classical composition to nurturing the next generation of Pacific artists, their contributions extend far beyond the stage.” says Gallagher.
