Shel Silverstein was a critically acclaimed writer of children’s books such as Where the Sidewalk Ends, Falling Up and most notable The Giving Tree. He was a talented lyricist and wrote iconic ballads such as Sylvia’s Mother for Doctor Hook and A Boy Named Sue for Johnny Cash.
Shel’s off beat style and brilliant use of metaphorical imagery in his poetry and illustrations is what inspires Tupua’s choreography - ultimately, delivering a tribute to his parents, his family and the environment that has inspired him over the years.
Tupua Tigafua is a highly accomplished dancer and one of the most ingenious storytellers of his generation. After dancing with some of Aotearoa's creative elite such as New Zealand Dance Company, Black Grace and MAU, Tupua has masterfully created an enchanting, playfully intriguing and visually stunning dance show.
This work has been presented at the Mangere Arts Centre in Auckland for the Pacific Dance Festival, as well as at the Measina Festival at Te Auahā in Wellington City and Pātaka Art + Museum in Porirua. Hundreds of primary school children rose to their feet in applause, the young hipsters were in awe after the show asking how they could become contemporary dancers, and senior citizen lovers held hands and gazed into each other’s eyes after hearing an old Samoan love song that brought back memories of the vibrant 70s. Shel We? appeals to different generations from all walks of life.
"Gravity is defied, literally, emotionally and metaphorically." - John Smythe, Theatreview.
"Shel We? Is the best dance theatre work I've seen since Michael Keegan-Dolan's 'Swan Lake'." - Carla Van Zon, Festival Director
