TALOFA PAPA National Wine Centre Until 27 Feb 2019 Review by Kylie Pedler Presented at the 2019 Adelaide Fringe Festival An ode to the importance of language, culture and family. Written and performed by Kasiano Mita, “Talofa Papa” is a communal experience so expect to be involved. (There is no sitting in the back corner!) Mita’s characterisation is excellent, representing the compassionate elderly man, who shares his Samoan culture through audience participation and preparing everyone for the upcoming entrance of his sweetheart. (Prepare to be surprised). Teaching a simple greeting, a traditional hand dance and a warm-up clapping rhythm, Mita praises his audience while also expressing his annoyance at a lack of contribution and lost memories. Awkward silences are followed by moments of spontaneous laughter; especially when two family members struggle to remove his jacket as he sustains his unyielding stooped frame. Through a simple introduction to Samoan culture there is a unifying moment between audience members ensuring one leaves feeling they have been part of a special family moment. Rating: 2 stars (out of 5)