A poetic, powerful new theatre work is hitting Te Pou this month — Tales of a City by the Sea (25–29 Nov), written by Palestinian playwright Samah Sabawi and directed by Rand Hazou and Acacia O’Connor.

It’s set in Gaza during the blockade — but it’s not just about war. It’s about love, resilience, poetry, and the strength of community. What’s extra special: some of the cast are connected to the Gaza Freedom Flotilla — activists who literally sailed boats to Gaza to deliver aid and solidarity. Now they’re turning that lived experience into art.

Cast member Rana Hamida talks with Drive Host Sara about the show, its kaupapa, and what it means to tell Palestinian stories in Aotearoa right now.