Matala-Tongan Arts Fono

Matala presents two shows for the Tongan Arts Fono
Friday 23rd October 2020
Fofo’anga “2=1 Band” will present the history of their kava community known as “Fofo’anga -
Count two as one”, a metaphor motto that symbolizes “Unity”. Fofo’anga will be performing a
mixture of familiar sounds and original Tongan acoustic music that has been passed down
from the minds of Fofo’anga pioneers who have passed away. The history and the
significance behind their music lives on, and continues to bind the relationships of Fofo’anga
members globally. Taking their music to another level in theatre, Fofo’anga 2=1 band
featuring guest performers, General Fiyah and J.Black

Saturday 24th October 2020
Mu’a Arts NZ, will share the story of the ancient capital of Tonga, Mu'a-Tongatapu which is
made up of two villages, Lapaha and Tatakamotonga. An ancient capital city known to
accommodate famous past and present choreographers, singer songwriters, and
outstanding Tongan dance performers, continue to pass down through the village
descendants across Aotearoa. With the approval and the blessing of an important member
of the Tongan royal family, the kainga of Mu’a based in Aotearoa will come together for the
first time to share the raw history of olden day Kings that have divided the two villages in
Tonga’s history. This annual event aims to develop an understanding of Tongan history, arts and culture and creating career pathways for New Zealand based Tongan
artists.