Vodafone Samoa has stepped forward to support the 2023 edition of the Allan Alo Arts Festival and has been announced as the major sponsor of the event.

The 2023 Allan Alo Arts Festival will run from 6–11 November 2023 with the local telecommunications firm saying their partnership brings together two organisations committed to promoting art, culture, and unity across the Pacific.

As the major sponsor of this year's festival, Vodafone Samoa said its support confirms its dedication to fostering cross-cultural understanding and artistic exchange. It added that the collaboration amplifies the festival's cultural richness and strengthens artistic bonds across the Pacific region, aligning with Vodafone Samoa's core values of diversity and inclusion.

Glenville Lord and Valentino Maliko, the Directors of SPACE, which is the organisation behind the festival, expressed their gratitude for Vodafone Samoa's support. 

"Vodafone Samoa's sponsorship plays a pivotal role in making the Allan Alo Arts Festival 2023 an unforgettable experience for our community and participants," said the two directors. "We share a common vision of celebrating our cultures, heritage, and the resilience of Pacific Islanders."

The addition of performers from Fiji and Hawaii will also add international flavour to this year's festival with the organisers saying they are thrilled with the participation of international guests.

"We are thrilled to announce the participation of our international guest artists for this year's event. We are honoured to welcome back MataDance Fiji from Fiji and Samadhi Hawaii from Hawaii. Both of these groups are set to enthral our audience once again with their vibrant and captivating performances."

Another star, Samoan-New Zealand actor, Villa Junior Lemanu will also make an appearance and will be the guest artist from Aotearoa.

"This collaboration comes as a result of our partnership with the New Zealand Pacific Dance Festival," said the organisers. "Villa Junior Lemanu's inclusion in our lineup not only enriches the cultural tapestry of our festival but also strengthens artistic connections across the Pacific region. 

"This event will be held at the MESC [Ministry of Education, Sports and Culture] Samoan Centre Theatre."

Vodafone Samoa said in its press release that its commitment to promoting the arts as a career path and as a means of physical, mental, and spiritual development for youth aligns perfectly with the festival's objectives. 

"Their support enables the festival to continue enabling regional and international creativity, while also creating networking opportunities and enhancing prospects for local artists."

This year's festival promises to be a remarkable celebration of the performing arts, embracing the themes "Journey Into The Past," "Within The Present," and "Step into the Future." This year's festival delves into the intricate tapestry of individual decisions that have shaped the present circumstances and shared visions for the future of Pacific Islanders. Central to the concept is the seamless integration of myths and legends, enriching our understanding of cultural identities as custodians and storytellers.

Vodafone Samoa said its partnership underscores its commitment to supporting cultural enrichment and artistic expression in the Pacific region. Together with the festival's participants, sponsors, and supporters, the festival this year is set to create an unforgettable experience that celebrates art, culture, and unity.