Making Waves: “We are the sea – moving, rising, making waves”

Step into a day of music, movement and cultural celebration with ‘Making Waves’ – a series of four dynamic workshops led by some of the most accomplished Pasifika creatives on this side of the moana.

Whether you’re looking to move your body, lift your voice, or reconnect with your cultural roots, this event is all about celebrating the strength and beauty of Oceania right here in Fairfield – the heart of Western Sydney.

Come for the workshops, stay for the connection!

WORKSHOPS

1. CHOIR SINGING WORKSHOP | 10.30am – 12.00pm followed by a 30-minute showing
Lift your voice with Community leader and Cultural Facilitator, Lauaki Masima (NSWCPC)

Known for his passion for Tongan cultural arts and strong community presence, Lauaki Masima brings heart and energy to this choir-style singing workshop. With a background in Tongan Faiva and leading community and church based performances, Lauaki creates welcoming spaces where culture, connection and expression come together.

Whether you’re confident in your voice or just love to sing with others, this workshop invites you to raise your voice in harmony with your community.

2. TONGAN TAU’OLUNGA WORKSHOP | 10.30am – 12.00pm followed by a 30-minute showing
Experience the art of Tau’olunga with renowned choreographer, Nella Mounga (Ma’u Tau’olunga Creatives)

As the founder and director of Ma’u Tauʻolunga Creatives, Nella Mounga brings a wealth of experience and knowledge to this Tauʻolunga workshop. He will guide you through the dance’s intricate movements, offering insight into its cultural significance and the storytelling embedded in every gesture.

No matter your experience level, this workshop invites you to embrace the beauty and discipline of Tauʻolunga. Mou me‘a mai and immerse yourself in the grace and power of tau’olunga!

3. SIVA SAMOA WORKSHOP | 1.00pm – 2.30pm followed by a 30-minute showing
Connect to your roots with founder of Matavai Pacific Cultural Arts, Maryjane Mckibbin-Schwenke

Highly-respected community leader and cultural arts teacher, Maryjane Mckibbin-Schwenke, will guide you through an intensive Siva Samoa workshop, drawing from her expansive knowledge and deep passion for Samoan culture as former miss samoa (1997-1998).

Whether you’re new to Siva or looking to refine your skills, this is a rare opportunity to learn from one of Samoa’s finest. Step into PYT Fairfield and siva mai!

4. HIP HOP WORKSHOP | 1.00pm – 2.30pm followed by a 30-minute showing
Get ready to move your body with award-winning performer and community leader, Eliam Royalness (Pioneers Megacrew)

Eliam Royalness, founder and director of award-winning dance crew The Pioneers and trailblaizer in Australia’s hip hop and ballroom scenes, will share his expertise and get you moving in a BEGINNER FRIENDLY hip hop dance workshop.

Learn the moves, style and presence that have made Eliam a standout performer and artist. Bring your energy and let’s get ready to dance!

HOW THE DAY WORKS
We’ll be running two workshops at a time across two locations inside PYT Fairfield: The Gallery and The Theatre. Each session is 90 minutes, followed by a performance where all participants share back what they’ve learned.

We’ll wrap up the day with a short sharing where each group performs for one another – celebrating community, culture, and creativity!

Spots are limited so grab your free ticket and let’s make waves together!

WHEN
Saturday April 26 2025
10.00am – 3.00pm

WHERE
PYT Fairfield
19 Harris Street, Fairfield NSW 2165

FREE EVENT
(registrations required)

EVENT SCHEDULE:

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Venue

The Fairfield School of Arts is located at 19 Harris Street, Fairfield NSW 2165.

The distance to Fairfield train station is 350 metres, a 5 minute walk.

There is parking in surrounding streets and in Downey Lane Car Park.

Access

If you have any access requirements please let us know when purchasing your ticket or you can contact us before purchasing.

Email: admin@pyt.com.au

Phone: 02 9724 6077

Carers or support people

Contact the host of Making Waves | We are the sea – moving, rising, making waves