"On the Spot"

A team of six young Tongan performers are travelling to New Caledonia today to showcase their creation, a full-length theatre production titled “Kuonga”.

The team is part of a Nuku'alofa based non-profit arts association, On the Spot, who were invited to perform at the Tjibaou Cultural Centre in New Caledonia’s capital Noumea.

“Kuonga” was created in collaboration with a renown New Caledonian theatre association, Pacifique et Compagnie, which will assist the actors in preparing their production for three weeks before its premier at the Tjibaou Centre.

The 90 minutes long performance incorporates acting, song and dance. The story line follows two main characters Hina and Sinitau. It explores identity and the generation gap in Tonga, with the influences of technology, family and beliefs.

Creative Director for On The Spot, Ebonie Fifita said, “This opportunity presents limitless learning possibilities for us and we look forward to sharing that through our work, especially in the development of empowerment programs using theatre for Tonga and the Pacific. We are extremely thankful to all who continuously support and encourage us. Malo.”

The team of actors include Vaimoana Va‘epopua Soakimi, Yvane C. Fifita, Ebonie C. Fifita, Nabil Mercy Kafalava, Kaufononga He Lotu Pulu and Nisyola Kavatahi Fifita.

On their return to Tonga in June they plan to stage a local performance of "Kuonga".

Poster for the Noumea performances