Sina ma le Tuna

Join us for Sina ma le Tuna, an extraordinary collaboration by ĀTOA Siva Academy and Satiu Studios, presented under the auspices of Elevate Culture! 🎭 This captivating showcase features a lineup of thrilling performance acts led by a charismatic emcee, culminating in the grand presentation of the central work.

🌟 Production Overview:
A modern twist on the Sāmoan legend of Sina and the Eel, this piece is rooted in the vibrant realities of Sāmoan communities in western Sydney today. Guided by the saying, O le tuafafine o le i’omata o lona tuagane—"the sister is the pupil of her brother’s eye"—the narrative revolves around Sina, the emotional and cultural backbone of her family and community.

Set against the backdrop of western Sydney, the story tracks the journey of a young Sāmoan woman whose future is fiercely shielded by her family. It raises poignant questions about how love, faith, and community can propel her forward without holding her back. Sina's accomplishments as a church leader, dancer, and scholarship student lead her into university, while Tuna, a talented footy player, grapples with aspirations he has yet to fully comprehend.

As Sina forges ahead with purpose and clarity, the pressures of expectation, responsibility, and transition slowly shift their relationship. Sina ma le Tuna artfully blends traditional Sāmoan pese (song), siva (dance), and ensemble movement to depict the essence of sisterly protection—focusing on care, respect, and shared responsibility rather than restriction. This touching narrative imagines a future where community stays robust while nurturing the ascent of its young women. 🌺

👥 Lead Creative Team:

• ĀTOA Siva Academy: Matthew Faauila, Rachel Faauila & Sabrina Laussen
• Elevated Culture: Claudia Savaiinaea & Raymond Savaiinaea
• Satiu Studios: Tanuvasamanaia Christine Afoa, Elijah Lemusuifeauali’i, Lumafale Tumanu & Gabriel Faatau’uu-Satiu

📸 Image by Phoenix Vaiotu featuring Sina and Tuna, played by Orianna Tauapai and Jacob Pula, students from ĀTOA Siva Academy.

🎟️ Get your tickets now!
📍 Location: Sydney Coliseum, North Pde, Rooty Hill NSW 2766, Australia