The music, the laughs, the māfana is coming. Red, White and Brass, is coming to the stage this June! What would you do to get tickets to a Rugby World Cup game? This crew started their own brass band and the results were hilarious. Inspired by a true story, the hit film Red, White and Brass is being adapted for the stage. Join us for a fun story of friendship, family and fearlessly standing up for what you believe in.
Mālō e lelei! The Tongan community is renowned for its unyielding national pride, and it’s on full display in the stage adaptation of Red, White & Brass. This vibrant and heartfelt play, commissioned by Auckland Theatre Company, draws audiences into a world where cultural heritage and unbridled enthusiasm collide in the most delightful way.
Adapted from the film based on true events, Red, White & Brass tells the story of Maka, a Tongan superfan portrayed with magnetic charm by John-Paul Foliaki. Set in Wellington during the 2011 Rugby World Cup, Maka’s determination to attend the Tonga versus France game drives the narrative. When Maka and his cousin Veni fail to secure tickets, they hatch a seemingly impossible plan: forming a traditional Tongan marching band to perform at the pre-match entertainment, despite lacking a band and instruments.
From the outset, the play captures the audience’s attention with its simple yet effective set designs. The minimalist approach ensures the focus remains squarely on the actors, who breathe life into their characters with gusto. The sets, while unpretentious, are well-executed and evoke the bustling, warm community spaces integral to Tongan culture. The attention to detail in mannerisms, background noises, and walking styles showcases the meticulous effort put into authentically representing the Tongan way of life.
John-Paul Foliaki’s performance as Maka is the heart and soul of the production. His portrayal is a beacon of grace and enthusiasm, drawing the audience into Maka’s journey of self-discovery. The cast, as a whole, excels in turning their individual characters into fully fleshed personalities. The chemistry between the actors enhances the storytelling, making each scene engaging and emotionally resonant. Special mention goes to the actors playing Veni and the various members of the impromptu band, whose comedic timing and physical humour add layers of enjoyment to the narrative.
The play’s pacing, however, is a bit of a stretch at 2 hours and 20 minutes. While some scenes feel prolonged, the overall narrative is interspersed with enough laughs and physical comedy to keep the audience entertained. The humour, rooted in the cultural nuances and the sheer absurdity of the band’s formation, resonates well, making the play accessible to a broad audience. Despite this, it’s clear that Red, White & Brass is an affair deeply rooted in Tongan culture.
The script seamlessly switches between English and Tongan, with certain dialogues voiced only in Tongan. Non-Tongan speakers must often rely on context and the actors’ cadences to grasp the gist of these conversations. This linguistic interplay adds authenticity to the narrative, and the summarizing pieces of script ensure that English speakers can follow the storyline without much trouble. The moments of Tongan dialogue serve as a testament to the play’s commitment to celebrating and preserving Tongan heritage.
The story unfolds with Maka and his ragtag band of misfits—comprising fāmili (family), mates, and local church members—attempting to master the art of marching. These characters, who initially know nothing about marching and lack instruments, embark on a journey of self-discovery. The play beautifully illustrates how what starts as a desperate ploy to attend a rugby game transforms into a profound exploration of cultural identity and community solidarity.
The sense of māfana (warmth) pervades the narrative, showcasing the Tongan community’s unwavering support for each other. Maka and Veni’s journey is one of friendship, family, and fearlessly standing up for what they believe in. The play’s comedic elements are perfectly balanced with moments of introspection and cultural pride, making it a heartwarming and inspirational watch.
The costumes and set designs further elevate the production, subtly reinforcing the cultural backdrop of the story. Traditional Tongan attire and the visual representation of community spaces add layers of authenticity. The audience is not just watching a play; they are immersed in the vibrant, colourful world of Tongan culture.
Co-produced by Piki Films and Miss Conception Films, and directed by Damon Fepulea’i, the stage adaptation remains faithful to the original film’s spirit. The screenplay by Halaifonua Finau and Damon Fepulea’i transitions smoothly to the stage, retaining its humour, warmth, and cultural significance.
Red, White & Brass: The Play is a celebration of Tongan pride and community spirit. Despite its slightly extended runtime, the play’s engaging characters, heartfelt performances, and cultural authenticity make it a must-see. John-Paul Foliaki’s standout performance as Maka, supported by a talented cast, ensures that the audience is both entertained and moved. The play is a testament to the power of cultural identity and the joy of standing together as a community.
Toki sio, and don’t miss this delightful theatrical experience! Red, White & Brass is a triumph that will leave you laughing, cheering, and perhaps even inspired to wave a flag or two.
Red, White & Brass: The Play is being performed at the ASB Waterfront Theatre from June 18 - 7 July
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