Vancouver 
Events Description
Be immersed in the heart of the Pacific Ocean with UPU, a dynamic and electrifying theatre experience that brings the ocean’s rich voices to life.
Curated by award-winning poet Grace Iwashita-Taylor and led by powerhouse director Fasitua Amosa, this acclaimed theatrical work consists of the upu (meaning ‘words’) from 23 poets, including young activists, Poet Laureates and literary prize winners.
Spanning five decades and over a dozen cultures across Te Moana nui a Kiwa (the Pacific Ocean), the poems share the myriad of stories and perspectives of people connected by the largest body of water on earth. UPU is performed in English by six of Aotearoa New Zealand’s most celebrated actors, who masterfully create a snapshot of experiences as broad and deep as the Pacific Ocean.
Enhanced by evocative lights, projections, and a multi-layered soundscape, UPU is a celebration of the Pacific, its people, and their stories.
“It swept the audience up in wave after wave after wave of passion, emotion, of storytelling at its finest that pulled at the soul.”
—NZ Herald
Who is it for?
Recommended for ages 15+
HOW MUCH
Tickets : $35.00 – $69.00
How to get tickets?
Phone: 604-251-1363
Email: boxoffice@thecultch.com
WHEN & WHERE
Date: Tuesday February 17, 2026 to Saturday February 21, 2026
Opening Night
TUE, FEB 17 | 7:30PM
Evening Shows
TUE–SAT | 7:30PM
Matinee
SAT, FEB 21 | 2:00PM
Talkback
WED, FEB 18 | 7:30PM
60 minutes, no intermission
Venue & Address
York Theatre, 639 Commercial Drive, Vancouver, BC V5L 3W3
Wheelchair accessible
Accessible by Public Transport
