O le Pepelo, le Gaoi, ma le Pala’ai | The Liar, the Thief, and the Coward 

A darkly comic play of the fa’a sāmoa, where family, leadership and legacy converge in spectacular chaos.

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  • Words by Auckland NZ
  • Last updated 29 Apr 2024

“You’re not going to live forever. If you cark it tomorrow, who’s going to lead?”


In Sāmoa’s not-so-distant past, Pili Sā Tauilevā is a proud Ali’i (chief) in the village of Moa. He has devoted his life to the sacred fa’a sāmoa tradition of service. When he suddenly falls gravely ill and refuses to name a successor, his daughter and son become rivals for the title.

Power, politics and tradition collide in this darkly comic piece by Natano Keni and Sarita So, starring Semu Filipo (Things That Matter, Young Rock). Using both English and Gagana Sāmoa, O le Pepelo, le Gaoi, ma le Pala’ai | The Liar, the Thief, and the Coward  is a modern tale of a man who’s out of step with the times and whose time is running out. Who then will survive?

A collaboration between Auckland Arts Festival, Auckland Theatre Company and I Ken So Productions.

Location Te wāhi
ASB Waterfront Theatre, Wynyard Quarter
Plan your route
Getting there Te huarahi ki reira

ASB Waterfront Theatre is a 17-minute walk from Britomart Station and accessible by many bus routes, including the City Link route.

Local tip He tīwhiri mō te rohe

If driving, pre-book a spot in the theatre car park on Jellicoe Street for $13.