Critically Acclaimed Actor And Director To Helm Black Faggot

Fresh off her critically acclaimed performance in the cinematic triumph Tinā, powerhouse actor and trailblazing creative Anapela Polata'ivao takes the director’s seat for Black Faggot — the fearless and hilariously unfiltered play making its debut at The Court Theatre this month.

Audiences are in for a raucously funny and emotionally raw ride, as Polata'ivao brings her signature insight and fierce compassion to this landmark production by award-winning playwright and producer Victor Rodger.

Black Faggot was born from a moment of painful clarity. After witnessing a group of young people marching in a Destiny Church rally against same-sex marriage, Rodger reflected, “At least one of those kids will be gay and feeling quite wretched about himself.” From this, he penned a series of (mostly) comedic, sometimes heartbreaking monologues that capture the kaleidoscope of queer Pasifika experiences in Aotearoa.

Characters range from a closeted, flamboyant Destiny Church member reluctantly marching against civil unions, to a staunch and unashamedly proud gay man; from a fastidious Samoan lover distressed over a stained bedspread, to an award-winning fa’afafine artist boldly unpacking the meaning behind her newest piece, Cracker Wanna Poly.

With razor-sharp humour, fearless honesty, and deep cultural resonance, Black Faggot is funny, filthy, tender, and unflinchingly real. A breakout hit at the Edinburgh Fringe, the show has enjoyed multiple sold-out seasons in New Zealand and Australia.

This new production stars Gideon Smith (Grafted, Camp Be Better) and Court Theatre favourite Jake Tupu (Palu (Ē Toru), Fresh Off the Boat, O Le Malaga Fa’a’Atua), promising an unforgettable experience packed with comic brilliance and heart.

Anapela Polata'ivao is no stranger to telling powerful Pasifika stories. As a director, actor, and creative leader, she has long been a champion for Pacific voices on stage and screen. In 2024, she was appointed an Officer of the New Zealand Order of Merit for her outstanding service to the arts.

Her recent role in Tinā — the debut feature film by Miki Magasiva — further cemented her status as one of Aotearoa’s most compelling performers. Tinā, a love letter to Samoan culture and the transformative power of choral music, follows the journey of Mareta (Polata'ivao), a mother reeling from the loss of her daughter in the 2011 Christchurch earthquake. Taking a teaching job at a wealthy, predominantly Pākehā school, Mareta finds herself connecting with a group of students who, like her, are searching for healing. Her journey leads them all the way to the Big Sing National Choir Competition.

Polata'ivao’s performance was universally praised — a complex, emotional tour de force that anchored the film and underscored her extraordinary range.

Now, with Black Faggot, she turns her focus to the stage once more, ready to deliver a production that is as provocative as it is profound.

* The Court Theatre's production of Black Faggot will transfer to Auckland's Q Theatre from June 25-29.

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