Disney Concerts and AMP Worldwide present Disney’s Moana Live-To-Film Concert North American tour, featuring a full-length screening of the beloved movie accompanied by live performances of a unique on-stage musical ensemble of top Hollywood studio musicians, Polynesian rhythm masters and vocalists, celebrating the music and songs from this award-winning Walt Disney Animation Studios’ classic.
Read the Review from Alex Reif of Laughing Place
"From the first thunder of percussion, it’s clear this is no ordinary Disney concert. With over 1 billion hours streamed on Disney+ and a sequel that shattered box office records, Moana has become one of Disney’s most celebrated modern classics. Now, Disney Concerts is taking its music off the screen and into theaters across the country with the Disney Moana Live-to-Film Concert Tour. Unlike typical licensed Disney Concerts performed by local symphonies, Moana requires something different. Mark Mancina’s score and the songs by Lin-Manuel Miranda and Opetaia Foaʻi draw heavily from Oceanic traditions that can’t be replicated by a standard orchestra. The result is a touring ensemble that blends the intimacy of a chamber group with the energy of a Hans Zimmer live concert, always performed against the backdrop of the film.
The ensemble is built around rhythm. Of the seven members, five are percussionists (one, Kai Kalama, on a dedicated drum kit), joined by woodwind player Lester Paredes and guitarists Vaea A’etonu and Ryan Keau Kalama. The arrangement highlights Moana’s roots in Pacific Island music, giving the performance an earthy, pulsating energy. The band is even given a showcase of its own with an extended performance of “Logo Te Pate," complete with solos that spotlight each member’s talent.
With no conductor, vocalist Nina Sosefina anchors the evening, introducing the program and explaining its structure. She handles many of the traditional chants, such as “Tulou Tagaloa," and closes the night with a rousing encore of the end-credit pop version of “How Far I’ll Go."
Moana Live-to-Film Concert isn’t just a chance to watch the movie again — it’s a celebration of culture, rhythm, and storytelling that brings Disney’s animated ocean voyage to life in a whole new way. Fans of the soundtrack won’t be disappointed."
Meet the Musicians
Top row, left to right:
Vaea A'etonu | Guitar, Vocals
Vaea A’etonu is a celebrated Samoan guitarist and artist whose decade-long work with Disney and performances alongside artists like Fiji, Tenelle, and Pati showcase his exceptional versatility and soulful artistry. A winner of the 2013 Weekend In Polynesia Talent Contest, he continues to inspire as a member of the Polynesian trio FAIVA and a dedicated advocate for Pacific Islander culture in Southern California.
Kai Kalama | Drum Set & Percussion
Kai Kalama is a dynamic musician from Eastvale, California, known for bringing joyful energy and heartfelt connection to every audience. A former American Idol Top 36 Semi-Finalist, he continues to share his aloha through powerful performances and collaborations that celebrate the spirit of music.
Ryan Keau Kalama | Bass, Vocals
A gifted singer, songwriter, multi-instrumentalist, and educator from San Clemente, California, Ryan Kalama brings warmth and soul to every performance. As part of the Kalama Brothers, he shares peace, love, and aloha with audiences everywhere through his passion for music and storytelling.
Lauren Kosty | Percussion
A versatile multi-percussionist based in Los Angeles and London, Lauren Kosty captivates audiences across genres from classical and jazz to film and pop. With performances spanning the Hollywood Bowl to international tours, she brings dynamic artistry and precision to every stage she graces.
Bottom row, left to right:
Erica Kika Parra | Percussion
A dynamic Latin and Afro-Colombian percussionist, drummer, and educator, Erica “Kika” Parra brings her rich musical heritage and vibrant energy to stages around the world. From the Hollywood Bowl to Carnegie Hall, her powerful performances and Grammy-winning work celebrate the rhythms and spirit of Colombia’s Atlantic coast.
Lester Paredes | Woodwind
A Venezuelan multi-instrumentalist and captivating performer, Lester Paredes brings global music traditions to life with his expressive woodwinds and vibrant stage presence. A Latin Grammy–nominated artist and longtime Cirque du Soleil bandleader, he blends tradition and innovation to create soulful performances that resonate with audiences worldwide.
Anthony Kauka Stanley | Percussion
A ukulele virtuoso, composer, and cultural ambassador, Anthony Kauka Stanley shares the beauty of Polynesia through his inspiring performances and teaching. As Music Director of Heali’i’s Polynesian Revue and a master teaching artist with the Center for World Music, he continues to uplift audiences worldwide with his passion for preserving and celebrating island heritage.
Sioeli Tameifuna | Percussion
A talented multi-instrumentalist from Orange County, California, Sioeli Tameifuna brings soulful island rhythms and vibrant energy to every stage. With roots in church music and deep experience in Polynesian folk traditions, he has toured the world sharing his passion for sound, culture, and connection.
Nona Sosefina | Vocals
A proud first-generation Samoan American from Long Beach, California, she carries her heritage and community spirit into every performance. Through music and acting, she strives to create representation, uplift Pasifika voices, and inspire the next generation to dream boldly and unapologetically.
