'Talune' is a new play written and directed by Sani Muliaumaseali'i in commemoration of the influenza pandemic of 1918. Premiere performance at NZ House, London, 12 November 2018.
'Talune' is a new play written and directed by Sani Muliaumaseali'i in commemoration of the influenza pandemic of 1918.
Set in Apia, during the armistice, one young girl's dream portends the devastation brought to Samoa aboard the New Zealand ship, the SS Talune. On board were people suffering from pneumonic influenza, a highly infectious disease already responsible for millions of deaths around the world. The sick were allowed to disembark resulting in 25% of the Samoa population perishing.
'Talune' is a powerful work depicting a turbulent time for New Zealand and Samoa in the aftermath of World War 1. Based on history, anecdote and imaginings.
Premiere performance takes place at the Penthouse of New Zealand House, 80 Haymarket, London, SW1Y 4TQ, United Kingdom.