Masi is Conch Theatre’s successor to the well received production, Vula. Masi combines dance, photography theatre and illusion to create a story of memory and self discovery.
This production from the Kiwi/Fijian collective is based upon the romance between artistic director, Nina Nawalowalo’s, parents. Her father was a Fijian high chief and her mother was the daughter of English teachers. Their unlikely meeting occurred over a game of chess and was captured in photographs.
These photos form the backdrop to a mixed media presentation that has little dialogue. The performance includes six traditional Fijian dancers and illusions by magician Paul Kieve (advisor on the Harry Potter films). Its themes of self discovery are creatively embodied by the making of Masi (traditional Fijian cloth) on stage.
Described as a magical evocation of Fijian culture when performed in New Zealand last year, Masi promises to be a surprise highlight of the Sydney Festival.
