Dancer Fuaao Tutulu Faith Schuster is proud to be “just a little part” of the legacy and history of Black Grace, one of New Zealand’s most important dance companies.
Faith is dancing in Black Grace’s upcoming This Is Not A Retrospective show, taking place in Auckland on 22 March 2025. She will be sharing the stage with renowned artists like Che Fu, Tha Feelstyle, DJ Manuel Bundy, Buckwheat and the NZTrio as part of the show.
This one-night-only performance celebrates 30 years of the contemporary dance company, which was founded by choreographer Neil Ieremia in 1995. It’s “more than just a normal dance show”, says Faith, and it celebrates Black Grace’s work and influence with an immersive experience.
“The legacy and history that the company has runs deep and I’m proud to be part of it, even just a little,” says Faith of her role in the show.
Originally from the village of Satuiatua in Samoa, Faith’s dance journey started with traditional Samoan Siva. After moving to New Zealand as a child, she continued to dance ,competed with hiphop crews, and eventually studied dance. Having joined Black Grace in 2021, Faith has been “very fortunate to work, travel and perform with the company as a dancer”.
“Sharing the stage with the company Black Grace has always been a privilege and huge honour on my part,” she says.
“I’m very honoured and excited to be part of the show. I mean, to celebrate a company that’s been around for 30 years and one that has paved the way for Pasifika aspiring dancers like myself, it’s a huge honour.”
She is proud to be part of a company with strong Pacific roots, and would love to see more Pacific people leading in the arts.
“Black Grace has been one of the only dance companies that has toured and shared our stories internationally for the past 30 years, it’s inspiring what they’ve done over the years for our people - and I hope to see more Pacific people lead and succeed.
“It’s been said that we are the original storytellers, and I believe it’s true. Pacific people have been telling stories through traditional practices since the beginning of time.”
“It’s more than just showcasing our stories to other people. It’s about telling our stories, through our lens and for our people. And if young Pacific people see that, guaranteed they’ll be inspired to do that and hopefully more,” she says.
She encourages young Pacific artists and performers to “go for it”.
“Learn your history, stay the course and never forget why you’re pursuing a career in the first place,” says Faith.
Tickets are on sale now for This Is Not A Retrospective, which takes place on Saturday 22 March 2025 at Auckland Town Hall.