PHIVE Presents: A Sea of UPU - Poetry, Storytelling & Connection Workshop

Join members of the internationally acclaimed UPU Collective for a unique poetry workshop inspired by the powerful world of UPU.

Fresh from performances at Riverside Theatres Parramatta, UPU artists Fasitua Amosa and Shadon Meredith invite participants into a creative and welcoming space where storytelling, culture and connection take centre stage.

Guided by poetry-writing techniques, creative prompts and Moana-centred philosophies, you'll explore memory, identity, place and belonging while developing your own poetic voice. Whether you're an experienced writer, an emerging creative or simply curious to try something new, this workshop offers an opportunity to connect with the storyteller within

Drawing inspiration from the poetry, themes and spirit of UPU, participants will engage in reflective writing exercises, collaborative sharing and creative exploration that celebrates the richness of Pacific storytelling traditions.

This is a rare opportunity to learn directly from artists touring with one of the Pacific's most celebrated theatre works, creating meaningful connections between communities, cultures and stories.

No previous writing experience required. Everyone is welcome.
 

Date: Sunday, 30 August 2026

Time: 1pm - 3.30pm

Location: Dharug Country, PHIVE, 5 Parramatta Square. Level 3, Makers Space

Tickets: $10.00, bookings essential

Reccommended Age: 16+
 

What to Expect

During this interactive workshop, participants will:

• Explore poetry-writing techniques and creative storytelling tools.
• Take part in guided writing exercises and gentle creative prompts.
• Connect with Moana-centred perspectives on storytelling, identity and place.
• Experiment with blackout poetry and personal writing practices.
• Share work in a supportive and welcoming environment.
• Learn from artists performing in UPU at Riverside Theatres Parramatta.
• Discover how poetry can be used to express culture, memory, history and imagination.
• Expect an afternoon of creativity, conversation, reflection and inspiration.

Meet the Facilitators

Fasitua Amosa is a director, actor and co-founder of the UPU Collective. As director and co-creator of UPU, he has helped bring Pacific poetry to audiences across Aotearoa New Zealand, Australia, Canada and beyond. With more than two decades of experience across theatre, television and film, Fasitua is passionate about creating spaces where Pacific stories can be shared, celebrated and amplified. Drawing on his extensive experience as a performer and storyteller, he guides participants through creative processes that connect words, voice and identity.

Shadon Meredith is a Samoan actor, theatre-maker and creative practitioner from Aotearoa New Zealand. A member of the UPU ensemble, he has performed extensively across stage and screen, including productions such as King Lear, The Seagull and UPU. Passionate about empowering communities through storytelling, Shadon brings warmth, insight and a deep love of Pacific narratives to his workshop facilitation practice.

About UPU Collective

UPU Collective is a collective of Pacific performing artists based in Aotearoa New Zealand, dedicated to creating contemporary Pacific-centred works for stage and screen. Their award-winning theatrical production UPU brings together the voices of Pacific poets from across Te Moana-nui-a-Kiwa in a powerful celebration of culture, identity, resilience and connection.

Named after the word for "word" in many Pacific languages, UPU transforms poetry into a vibrant theatrical experience through performance, music, imagery and storytelling. Following sold-out seasons and international tours across Australia, Canada, Mexico and New Zealand, the company continues to share Pacific stories with audiences around the world.

See UPU on Stage at Riverside Theatres Parramatta

Friday 28 August, 7pm

Saturday 29 August, 2pm & 7pm

A rare chance to connect directly with the artists, stories and creative spirit behind one of the Pacific's most celebrated contemporary theatre works. 

Riverside Theatres Performance: Community Tickets Available

We are proud to offer $35 Community Tickets for patrons who identify as Pasifika and/or Tagata Moana, celebrating the cultures, stories and voices at the heart of UPU.

Select “Community Offer” in the dropdown menu when booking your tickets. Limited allocation available for each performance, book early to avoid missing out.

PHIVE sits on the lands and waters of the Burramattagal of the Dharug nation and we acknowledge Burramatta as significant place of ceremony, story and tradition. We pay our respects to Dharug Ancestors and Elders, past, present and future and extend our respect to all First Nations people joining this program and visiting PHIVE.