Biography:
Amanaki Lelei Prescott-Faletau is an actor, writer, dancer, choreographer, producer, and director of Tongan descent, living in New Zealand. She has made significant contributions to the world of performing arts and has been recognized for her talents and achievements.
Born and raised in New Zealand, Amanaki comes from a traditional religious Tongan family. She was assigned male at birth but knew from a young age that she identified as a girl. Despite the challenges and obstacles she faced, Amanaki has always embraced her true self and followed her passion for performing.
Growing up in the diverse community of Mount Roskill, Auckland, Amanaki discovered her love for performing and dancing through church events. At the age of 15, she won her school’s talent quest competition, which further fueled her desire to pursue a career in the arts. From then on, Amanaki participated in multiple national Hip Hop competitions in New Zealand and even traveled to Los Angeles to compete in the World Hip Hop Dance Championships in 2008 and 2011.
In 2007, Amanaki enrolled in the Excel School of Performing Arts, where she studied dance with a major in Vogue and a minor in vocals. Although she did not complete her studies, Amanaki’s passion for dance propelled her to build her career in various dance styles such as Krump, Locking, Popping, Waacking, and Hip hop. She even formed a dance group called Vogue, with creative assistance and direction from Parris Goebel. Together, they competed at the World Hip Hop Dance Championships in 2011, showcasing their exceptional talent and skill.
Seeking to further expand her knowledge and expertise in performing arts, Amanaki attended the Pacific Institute of Performing Arts (PIPA). There, she obtained her diploma in performing arts and later completed her Bachelor’s degree in 2017, majoring in Performing Arts. During her time at PIPA, Amanaki immersed herself in various Pacific heritage dance forms from different Pacific Islands, including Siva Samoa (Samoa), Ura (Cook Islands), Tau’olunga (Tonga), and Takalo (Niue). This broadened her understanding and connection to her own cultural roots while also adding depth to her abilities as a performer.
Amanaki’s exceptional talent and unique perspective have led her to contribute significantly to the performing arts scene in New Zealand. She has served as a judge at the National Hip Hop Championships in New Zealand for the past seven years, sharing her expertise and helping to nurture the talents of aspiring dancers. Additionally, she has been a guest judge at multiple local high school talent quests, inspiring and motivating young performers.
In 2013, Amanaki co-founded the performing arts collective Fine Fatale, furthering her commitment to promoting the arts and providing opportunities for others within the industry. Through this collective, she continues to support and uplift marginalized voices, encouraging diversity and inclusion within the performing arts community.
Amanaki Prescott-Faletau’s journey as an artist, advocate, and trailblazer has been marked by resilience, determination, and a deep sense of self. Her passion for performing arts, commitment to her cultural heritage, and relentless pursuit of excellence have not only contributed to her personal achievements but have also had a significant impact on the wider society. Amanaki’s unwavering authenticity and invaluable contributions make her a true inspiration and a remarkable figure in the world of performing arts.
Awards:
-Most Outstanding Performance, 2015 Auckland Fringe Festival (Victor Rodger’s Girl on the Corner)
-Best Teenage Script, 2015 New Zealand Playmarket (Inky Pinky Ponky, co-written with Leki Jackson-Bourke)