The Music Portrait of a Humble Disabled Samoan – Q Theatre: March 5, 2026 (13th Floor Theatre Review)
The Music Portrait of a Humble Disabled Samoan starts with a moment that changed a life. In 2005, Fonotī Pati Umaga experienced what first seemed like a minor accident — a simple slip and fall, something many people have encountered. What appeared insignificant at the time became event that altered the course of his life forever.
His story premieres at the Te Ahurei Toi o Tāmaki Auckland Arts Festival before travelling to Wellington for the Aotearoa New Zealand Festival of the Arts from 12–14 March. Tickets are strongly recommended to be booked in advance.
The performance opens with energy and vibrancy. Although the ensemble is small, their presence fills the space through dynamic movement and music.
Umaga’s story begins in his colourful youth, as a lively and passionate musician in the 1980s. Starting with family and church bands, he eventually played bass for The Holidaymakers, later achieving success at the New Zealand Music Awards. The future seemed bright, until fate took an unexpected turn. His fall resulted in a devastating spinal cord injury, leaving him paralysed from the neck down.
This powerful 60-minute performance explores both hardship and celebration, all the while honouring culture, friendship, and the mentors who appear in our lives when we least expect them.
The section depicting Umaga’s journey through physical therapy was one of the most compelling moments of the show. Visual projections and personal photographs added a deeply intimate layer to an already moving story.
Umaga has since worked to challenge stigma around disability. Through conferences, foundations, support groups, and advocacy, he has amplified the voices and rights of the disability community. At its heart, the show reminds audiences of a simple but vital message: all individuals, including those with disabilities, deserve to be treated with dignity and respect.
Human connection has the power to heal. Director Maiava Nathaniel Lees, a longtime friend of Umaga, guides the story with compassion, honesty, and vulnerability. The result is a deeply humbling and beautiful portrayal of resilience and ultimately, an ode to joy, music, and the enduring strength of the human spirit.
Ms. Peach
Video here.
Head to AAF.co.nz for show information and tickets
