Anapela Polata’ivao ONZM is an iconic New Zealand-Samoan performer and director, known for her powerful storytelling and work on productions such as Tinā, Red White and Brass, and Wild Dogs Under My Skirt.
Her direction often explores and champions Pasifika narratives. She is the recipient of the Arts Foundation New Generation Award (2014), the Contemporary Pacific Art Award (2019), and Best Director at the Auckland Theatre Awards (2016).
In 2024, she was awarded an ONZM for her services to Pacific Performing Arts.