A proud moment for Fiji’s creative industry is on the horizon, as Vou Dance Company prepares to make history on two of New Zealand’s major arts stages next year.
The New Zealand High Commission has praised the achievement, with High Commissioner Charlotte Darlow describing Vou’s milestone as “remarkable”, noting that to her knowledge, they will be the first Fijians to headline the Hamilton Arts Festival.
Speaking to fijivillage News, Darlow says she was delighted when Vou co-founder Sachiko Soro approached the High Commission with news that the troupe had been invited to perform at the Wellington Fringe Festival, held in Darlow’s own hometown.
She says New Zealand enjoys a rich and vibrant music and theatre culture, and emphasised the importance of artistic expression in uplifting communities.
The New Zealand High Commission has provided $28,000 to support Vou’s travel for the tour.
Vou Director Sachiko Soro says the team is excited to break new ground, as this will be the first time a Fijian circus ensemble performs at these prominent festivals.
Soro says the storytelling and all the artistic elements require training and expertise, and with doors opening through this partnership with the New Zealand High Commission, they are able to show Fijian communities there is a pathway for this, and make dancing and arts a sustainable career.
Vou will showcase their work at the Wellington Fringe Festival from 17th to 21st February, before headlining the Hamilton Arts Festival from 27th to 28th February.
