Two graduates of the Whitireia Bachelor of Applied Arts (Performing Arts) performed in the Fringe Festival earlier this year, in a play called Poly-Zygotic.

Poly-Zygotic has just been chosen as one of three ‘The Pick of the Fringe’ plays for 2009 and additional performances will be taking place from 29th April - 7th May, 6pm, at Downstage Theatre.

Tupe Lualua and Taofi Mose-Tuiloma graduated with the Bachelor degree in 2008 and 2007 respectively. This year Lualua has returned to Whitireia as a tutor of Samoan dance in the Bachelor of Applied Arts (Performing Arts).

‘The Pick of the Fringe’ has been instituted as an annual event after its success in the past; Downstage Theatre picks three real gems from the Fringe NZ Festival for a limited return season.

Poly-Zygotic takes a look at a set of Samoan triplets preparing for their annual Lotu a Tamaiti (White Sunday), an annual celebration for the young which can either be the highlight of the year or a nightmare dreaded by all. The three triplets, played by Tupe Lualua, Taofi Mose-Tuiloma and Asalemo Tofete, all struggle to define their own personality in a family packed with rules and tradition.The play is directed by Anya Tate-Manning but has been devised by the three performers.

“All three performers are skilful and totally engaging, said a review by Melody Nixon, in Theatre Review, 15 Feb 2009. It is enjoyable for the talent of its actors and the energetic gusto of its humour.”