On the evening of Tuesday 21st November, Unity Books was filled with excited humans ready to celebrate the launch of Floating Islanders, co-authored by Lisa Warrington & David O’Donnell and published by Otago University Press.
Imogen Coxhead from OUP began the evening’s event by welcoming the crowd and introducing their newest offering.
Nathaniel Lees then took to the mic to officially launch Floating Islanders, and spoke of how it is a “book of memories” for him, sharing some of his own Pacifika theatre experiences and practice.
Lisa Warrington & David O’Donnell gave their speeches in tandem, highlighting the wonderful collaboration of communities and people who shared their stories and their time to help create this important history of Pasifika theatre in Aotearoa/New Zealand.
As a special treat, Tanya Muagututi’a and Pos Mavaega performed a song from Erolia Ifopo & Oscar Kightley’s play Romeo & Tusi.
Happy sounds of people reconnecting and meeting filled the shop, as old friends and colleagues were seen hugging and laughing throughout the evening.
The crowd gathers before the launch
OUP’s Imogen Coxhead introduces the book
Nathaniel Lees greets the room
Nathaniel Lees launches Floating Islanders
Authors, Lisa Warrington & David O’Donnell, sign copies for the customers and take a moment to celebrate their hard work.
Group photo time! Say cheese!
Tanya & Pos treat the crowd to “Romeo & Tusi”
Floating Islanders: Pasifika Theatre in Aotearoa is available in store and at Unity Books Online now.
