THE WAIKIKI HAWAIIANS

Bay of Plenty Times, Volume L, Issue 7890, 5 January 1922, Page 3

THE WAIKIKI HAWAIIANS

The Town Hall was filled last night in every part by an interested and delighted audience, every mcrnof which thoroughly enjoyed the quaint melodies and the charm of the music generally, provided by tht Waikiki Hawaiians, a, company of gifted natives of that island. The dreamy, rhythmic Hawaiian melodies , with their under' current of sadness, as played on the- ukulele and guitar, was delightful. Probably nothing sweeter has been beard here than the music of the steel guitar as played by Mr Ktoke Greig, a- distinctly talented young musician. A haunting Hawaiian Lament, “The Rosary,” “A Perfect Hay,” and “Coming Home,” all rendered with rare execution, were among the selections. Miss A. Leata, won warm applause for her contributions, which included “Lair Hawaii,” “Egyptian Eyes,” and “Murry Moon,” A feature of the evening was the Luau Hula, as danced by'Miss Lilliokakni, with quaint body and arm movements. Solos, trios, and company numbers on the ukulele and guitar, including jazz and more classical items, and songs and deuces by individual members of the party, made up a programme that was much to the popular taste. A song “E Pari Ra, ” sung in Maori by Misses Greig Lilliokalani and Leata, with one of the male members of the party dressed as a Maori warrior was very cnthusiastical 1 y encored. The charm of the entertainment, was greatly added to by the delight ful lighting effects, which were in the capable hands of Mr J B. Phillips, who has the lighting necessary to the successful and pleasing production of each number worked down to a fine art. The gradual blending of the lights from bright to dim through varying colours, and vice versa was unique and distinctly in keeping with the entertainment. , , \ The party left this morning for Paeroa where they appear to-night. 'Mr G. Baikie, ‘who is transporting the. party came in for a':° word of warm _ praise this morning by one of their number. He brought them from Matamata, has taken them, to Opotiki ami back, all without puncture, stoppage or mishap of any kind. Tlip party count, themselves fortunate to be in such capable hands.