Native Earth Performing Arts is proud to present UPU by UPU Collective with the support of Creative New Zealand Toi Aotearoa from February 27-March 1, 2026 at Aki Studio in Toronto. Following its sold-out season at the Sydney Opera House, UPU will visit eight Canadian cities in February and March 2026. UPU, which means ‘word’ in many different languages of the Pacific Islands, is a collection of voices from people who live on Te Moana Nui a Kiwa, the Pacific Ocean enhanced by evocative lighting, projections, and a multi-layered soundscape.

With powerful poetry, compelling storytelling and unforgettable performances, UPU brings the ocean’s rich voices to life - exploring cultural struggle, joy, and identity across the islands. Through the words of 23 poets, ranging from emerging voices to acclaimed literary figures, UPU weaves a rich tapestry of stories, experiences and perspectives from First Nations peoples of the islands.

UPU stars Fasitua Amosa, Ana Corbett, Nicola Kāwana, Miriama McDowell, Shadon Meredith, and Jarod Rāwiri and features published works from poets, young voices, international activists, top Literary prize winners, and Poet Laureates including Tusiata Avia, Ben Brown, Brandy Nālani McDougall, Craig Santos Perez, Sia Figiel, Briar Grace-Smith, Daren Kamali, Karlo Mila, Grace Mera Molisa, Noʻu Revilla, Celestine Kulagoe, John Pule, Tafea Polamalu, Leilani Tamu, Apirana Taylor, Teresia Teaiwa, Hone Tuwhare, Selina Tusitala Marsh, Kathy Jetñil-Kijiner, Konai Helu Thaman, Albert Leomala, Maualaivao Albert Wendt and Lyz Soto.

These poems reflect on cultural identity, history and the challenges faced by Pacific communities-from Hawaiians debating Captain Cook’s legacy, to the joys of SPAM in Guam and other Americanised islands, to the Marshall Islands’ struggle against rising seas.

Poetry is powerful on the page - but on stage, it’s pure magic. The show’s energy comes alive through a cast of extraordinary Pacific performers, each with a rich background in theatre, film and television, whose passionate delivery of these words will transport audiences across the ocean.

UPU is an intimate and unforgettable experience - a celebration of the Pacific, its people, and their stories.

Native Earth Performing Arts is Canada’s oldest professional Indigenous theatre company. Currently in its 43rd season, Native Earth is dedicated to nurturing Indigenous storytelling. We develop, produce and present Indigenous art. We champion talent. According to the Seven Sacred Teachings, we do what we do and fulfill our purpose with truth, wisdom, love, respect, bravery, honesty, and humility. nativeearth.ca

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UPU

UPU Collective with the support of Creative New Zealand Toi Aotearoa

February 27, 7:30pm

February 28, 7:30pm

March 1, 2pm

Aki Studio, 585 Dundas Street East, #120

Tickets are $20-65

nativeearth.ca

Recommended for ages 15+

For Indigenous Group rates, email boxoffice@nativeearth.ca

Photo: Scene from UPU.