'On God': New theatre show explores pre-colonial and modern spirituality

A postgraduate Samoan creative bursting into the arts industry is making waves with a new original theatre show that investigates history and modern contexts of spirituality and religion.

Actor Kaisa Fa'atui is preparing for his directorial and playwriting debut with his theatre show On God.

Speaking to 531pi's Island Time host Tofiga Fepulea’i, Fa'atui says the play inspires and encourages audiences to challenge their religious ideologies.

“It covers pre-colonial spiritual beliefs and how my generation deals with faith. I aim to create a show that helps us gain more confidence in talking about our spiritual journeys and faith.

“Hopefully (to) help us have those deeper conversations.”

His aiga has a long devoted history to the E Fā Ka Sā (EFKS) church and says his passion for the arts started at White Sunday aoga mea (practices).

The previous Taitā College head boy credits his drama teacher, Miss Angie Wood, as the inspiration to his pursuit of passion.

“She showed me that it’s possible to have a career in the arts and to actually pour your heart and dedication into it.

“(Making) something that has the ability to change the world and you can do that and still enjoy doing something that you love.”

Fa’atui has dabbled in TV playing the role of Vince Tuisamoa in TVNZ’s The Panthers series and gave stand up comedy a shot appearing in Cool Story Bro and The Carnage Comedy Show.

Through posts on social media, Fa'atui acknowledges the dedication of his cast and crew and is on a mission to raise $10,000 via the arts funding platform - Boosted.

He says he wants to ensure everyone receives the "payment they deserve and are worth".

On God is part of Fa’atui’s studies towards finishing his Masters of Fine Arts at Victoria University and will premiere at the cohort’s Scratch Festival in Wellington, January 2024.

Catch the full interview with Kaisa Fa’atui on Island Time below.