TeAda Productions is proud to launch the Pasifika Artists Exchange (PAE), featuring three Pacific Islander theater artists Kathy Martin (Chuukese), Kiki Rivera (Samoan/Pilipino) & Misa Tupou (Tongan/Samoan). As a new Partner of the National Performance Network, this residency is TeAda’s first Artist Engagement Fund project to take place in Los Angeles County. This residency will feature a series of workshops between May and June 2026 in the community, and an intensive week-long ensemble building process, culminating in a public sharing on June 20, 2026 in Culver City.
The Pasifika Artists Exchange program focuses on enriching, enhancing, and advancing Pasifika Arts & Performance by utilizing devised theatre to support Pasifika artists exchanging stories and creative expression. Participants will have the opportunity to train with lead artists Misa Tupou and Kathy Martin. We are seeking up to five Pacific Islander (Polynesian, Micronesian, Melanesian, and Oceania Islanders) ages 18 and older to form the ensemble of contemporary performance artists including theater artists, dancers, musicians, and storytellers.
The PAE Just Play workshop is facilitated by Misa Tupou and Kathy Martin hosted by TeAda Productions.
Join our lead artists in guiding an interactive experience with games, physical movements, and the power of words & storytelling. “Pae” in ōlelo Hawai’i means to land ashore or to cluster or group. Gather with us in a time when Pasifika arts and play are most needed.
Come as you are. Bring a bottle of water, comfortable clothes to move in, and your whole self (creativity included)! This is a low stakes, high reward experience with a 20-person capacity.
Please send any questions to Soultree C at camba@teada.org.
About the facilitators: Misa Tupou - As a performance artist, Misa Tupou creates work in film and theatre. In film, he started creating short pieces with limited dialogue, which is a reflection of his background in physical theatre. Misa previously taught acting at college level and introduces his students to a "just play" attitude that frees up the actor to develop their acting skills.
Kathy Martin, MSW. - Kathy Martin is a professionally trained social worker with a Master of Social Work from the University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa. She brings over 10 years of experience to the field, specializing in trauma-informed practice, systems navigation, and community advocacy. She is a cast member of NOTHING MICRO ABOUT MICRONESIA with TeAda Productions.
What: Pasifika Artists’ Exchange (PAE) Just Play Workshop, MidCity LA | led by Misa Tupou & Kathy Martin
When: Saturday, June 13th, 2026 — from 10am to 12pm PST
Where: TeAda Productions, MidCity LA (register for address information)
Register: Button to sign up for this workshop is below, or click here.
Prices: FREE
This workshop will support, prioritize, and center voices of Polynesian, Micronesian, Melanesian, and Oceania Islanders.
TeAda Productions is a Los Angeles based non-profit theater of color rooted in the stories of immigrants and refugees. We are committed to healing and honoring the lives of the displaced, exploited and overlooked. Our artistic process starts and ends with conscious listening, community building, and creative courage. Through theater workshops and performances, TeAda offers acts of service that are transformative and impactful.
