Sons of Vao – Reviews

“Sons of Vao is a landmark production. Raw, emotional, and unexpectedly tender, it is a love letter written in bruises and healing. It is a story that honours Niuean identity, Pasifika resilience, and the complicated bonds between fathers and sons. It is theatre that stays with you long after the lights come up.”

“It is a family drama, a black comedy, a memory play. Despite the comparatively small cast and minimal design, Sons of Vao is aiming to encapsulate a lot of things, and it does so successfully.”

“Sons of Vao is a brilliantly crafted tour de force”

“Quite simply, beautifully executed by outstanding performers, the storyline of reconnection to your roots and reconciliation is well captured. At times poignant, emotionally confronting and raw, at times witty, always authentic and honest, the story is imbued with love. Get along to see it. You will not be disappointed. This is a story for all Aotearoa.”

“Beulah Koale’s depiction of Vao is magnificent in portraying a man so broken and beyond redemption it is easy to loathe him. Fa’avae-Jackson is the perfect narrator and brings a compelling emotional depth to the role of To. Savea and Taefu are equally strong and manage to convey a familial likeness while delivering their characters own individuality. ”