08/06/2024
★★★★★ "For my father" by Andrew Asaph Kuliniasi is a groundbreaking and stigma-shattering new work from Papua New Guinea that invites the audience into a poignant exploration of heartbreak, grief, and the conflicting emotions surrounding the death of a patriarch. Set within the intimate confines of a "Haus Krai," the play vividly captures the raw pain and traumatic nuances of a family grappling with survival, striving to break cycles of abuse amidst a backdrop of cultural imbalances, gender-based violence, child abuse, religious overtones, and the relentless daily struggle for existence. Kuliniasi's masterful writing, brought to life by a skillfully portrayed cast under Ziggy Yominao's astute direction, guides the audience through the seven stages of grief: from the initial shock and denial to the piercing pain and guilt, the fiery anger and futile bargaining, the depths of depression, and ultimately, the gradual ascent towards acceptance and hope. The soulful music enriches the narrative, adding depth to the emotional journey. Highly recommend this powerful and evocative production, which leaves the audience reflective and inspired to make a positive impact in the lives of others, to cherish their moments with family, and to ponder the legacy they will leave behind.
