USP presents "Malaga: The Journey"

“ … a triumphant work; a work of beauty and art’’ …. these are words used to describe “Malaga: The Journey’’, a choreographed choral celebration featuring cast of over 100 which is being proudly presented by the University of the South Pacific.

This award winning production is being conducted by internationally renowned music director Mr Igelese Ete and will be presented to the people of Suva, Fiji, from July 5 to 6 at the Suva Civic Auditorium.

Malaga is a journey rich in song, dance and spirituality. From the rhythms of pagan drums to the choruses of Christian redemption, the cast sing of their journey from past to present.

"Malaga: The Journey" dramatises the ancient voyages of Pacific people, celebrating their ancient navigation achievements and connecting them to modern day journeys and challenges.

The USP production has been drawn from an original 12-minute choral work conceived and composed by Igelese Ete and Jakki Leota-Ete for the “Mana Pasifika’’ exhibition at the opening of the festivities for Te Papa Tongarewa in Wellington, New Zealand. The performance then led to a commissioning of a 50-minute production for the Christchurch Festival of Arts which was then significantly revised, expanded and performed to rave reviews in Auckland in 2001 and 2002.

The USP production, which is no doubt the first of its kind to be presented in Fiji, features new dance and musical sections from various parts of Melanesia and Micronesia to give it a truly Pacific feel.

According to Igelese Ete, patrons of Suva are in for a treat.

“The songs, music and dance in the production will stay in the hearts and minds of people for a long time.’’

“There is so much raw talent here and I am delighted to have had the opportunity to work with these students and bring Malaga to the people of Suva.’’

There will be three performances at Suva’s Civic Auditorium – a schools matinee on Wednesday July 5 and two evening performances. The first will be on the evening on July 5 at 7.30pm and the second on July 6, also starting at 7.30pm.

Tickets go on sale at the USP Bookshop from Monday June 26 and prices are $10 for Premium and $5 standard.

"Malaga: The Journey'' is a 'not to be missed' experience.