Behind the makeup, the laughter, and the jokes, a group of fa'afafine, akavaine and fakaleiti are hoping to empower the next generation, and challenge cultural and social norms, by telling their stories through dance.
'Le Freak' by Fine Fatale, with Amanaki Prescott-Faletau in centre. Photo: Leilani Momoisea / RNZI
Performing arts company Fine Fatale is examining how the Pacific's 'third gender' is faring in today's cultural climate.
Their latest work, 'Le Freak', performed during Auckland's Urbanesia Festival, draws inspiration from the noble savages of the Pacific, and asks how they can move beyond being the freaks of the world.
The lead choreographer, Amanaki Prescott-Faletau, says fa'afafine and fakaleiti are traditionally called on to entertain - and they're using this to get their own messages across.
"We've taken what people view as entertainment, we're meant to be funny, we're meant to be hilarious, we're meant to lighten up the room - to telling our own stories, and not just catering to what the audience wants, but catering to what we need to hear, and what we want to say, and what we want to portray."
Fine Fatale Creative Director, Mario Faumui Photo: Leilani Momoisea / RNZI
Dancers perform in Fine Fatale's 'Le Freak'. Photo: Leilani Momoisea / RNZI
Dancers perform on stage for 'Le Freak,' by Fine Fatale. Photo: Leilani Momoisea / RNZI
