(WORLD PREMIERE) Music Portrait of a Humble Disabled Samoan
By Music Portrait Collective  

With humour, honesty and a quiet, powerful presence, Samoan musician and disability advocate Fonotī Pati Umaga shares his remarkable story in this compelling new work. 

Raised in a church-going family in Wainuiomata, Pati was expected to become a minister by his father — but his passion was music. He forged his own path, breaking into the industry, launching a record label and building a career as bass player for The Holiday Makers.  

In 2005, a fall left Fonotī tetraplegic, leading to years of challenge and self-made darkness before finding renewed purpose and healing in unexpected places. 

Backed by a powerhouse Pacific creative team, Music Portrait of a Humble Disabled Samoan blends live music, storytelling and striking visuals to honour a man who continues to rise. 

This production was commissioned by Aotearoa New Zealand Festival of the Arts, Te Ahurei Toi o Tāmaki Auckland Arts Festival and with support from Creative New Zealand’s Festival Commissioning and Presentation fund managed by PANNZ. 

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Wheelchair Seating is available at all shows at Tāwhiri Warehouse. All access tickets are $20. Companion tickets are free. For more information and to book access tickets, please contact access@festival.co.nz or phone (04) 473 0149 to book.