Talanoa Theatre - One Time Showcase of Youth Storytelling

Held at Mangere Arts Centre, 16 November 2024

Talanoa Theatre was a special one-time play co-designed, created, and delivered by our youth. Young people from the Talavou Village Leadership Group (TVLG) dedicated weeks of their time to meet, practice, and refine the production, bringing creativity, commitment, and heart to every rehearsal. This was not just a performance - it was a shared journey that built confidence, strengthened relationships, and highlighted the power of youth-led storytelling. 

The evening was made even more special as it also served as a heartfelt farewell to our former General Manager, Riki. Talanoa Theatre became a celebration of Riki's leadership and contributions, while shining a spotlight on the next generation of leaders, storytellers, and creatives within our community. It was a meaningful way to honor the past, embrace the future, and bring together youth, staff, and community members for a night of reflection, connection, and celebration. 

In addition to the performance, the event also provided an important community health component. In partnership with SouthPoint Family Doctors, we held an immunization drive offering HPV, Boostrix (tetanus, whooping cough), MMR (measles, mumps, rubella), meningococcal, and flu vaccines alongside free health checks. This ensured that alongside celebrating creativity and culture, our community had access to essential health services in a safe and welcoming environment. 

The showcase created a vibrant space within our youth community for theatre, storytelling, and wellbeing, allowing young people to express their lived experiences, voices, and truths. The audience was moved by performances filled with strength, vulnerability, and cultural pride -- a reminder of how powerful it is when youth are given the space to lead and share their stories. 

Talanoa Theatre was more than a play; it was a celebration of creativity, collaboration, community, and wellbeing. It highlighted the importance of safe spaces where Pasifika youth can grow, explore, and shine. Though a one-time event, the impact of Talanoa Theatre continues to resonate -- fostering confidence, inspiring leadership, strengthening connections, and supporting the holistic wellbeing of our youth and wider community.