Wedding Bail.

Huntly Press and District Gazette, Volume 5, 11 May 1917, Page 2

Wedding Bail.

On Wednesday evening last at the New Princess Theatre, a ball was held to celebrate the marriage of Mr and Mrs Ahau Tawhiao, who were married at Mercer the previous week. The whole uf the arrangements were in the hands of Mrs Uira Mahuta, and were carried out to perfection. The hall was most tastefully decorated with licopodium and chrysanthemums, while the stage was backed by a big Union Jack. In all probability the hall hud never looked better, and Mrs Mahuta is entitled to great credit for the whole effect, for with the help of two boys, the whole of the work was done by her. Quite a lot of invitations had been sent and had been j accepted by the great majority, | so that the hall was well filled by a gathering of pakehas and Maoris, the pakehas predominating. Mr Kio Terawhiti acted as Master of Ceremonies, and his duties were carried out in the best possible manner. Amusement was provided for I both old and young, and on each occasion that a dance was announced the floor was soon filled by a crowd of determined enjoyment seekers. Three vocal items appeared on the programme, Mrs Ur.ia Mahuta charming her audience i with a sweet rendition of an old Maori love song, and Mr Davis, ; making quite a hit with two sea I song. During the evening, Mr L. B. Harris Jr , on behalf of the business people of the Town, presented the bride and bridegroom with ; a very handsome tea set. In j doing so, he made pleasing ! reference to the family of the bridegroom, so well and favourab- ; ly known in Huntly, and wished | the bride and bridegroom long and every happiness. Mr Te Tau Tawhiao, uncle of the bride, suitably replied on behalf of the happy couple. The music for the dances was supplied by Miss Vera Russell and Mr Allen and needless to say, it was all that could be desired. At midnight, a very dainty supper was handed round and was much appreciated. Chief among the many items provided for the amusement of the guests was a Poi Dance, by nine girls, their ages varying from 5 to sixteen years. The girls were attired in old Maori costume, and the dance was done perfectly'. Special mention should be made of the little tot of about five years, who went through the long and complicated dance withouth a hitch. The performance was loudly applauded, and the audience was so pleased that they threw many coins on the floor to reward the performers. On being gathered up, it was found that a sum of about £4 had been thrown and this was presented to the little girl whose performance had created so much interest. The ball was kept going until nearly three o’clock in the morning and the enjoyment of all was evidenced by the fact that very few had departed previous to the break up. Taken altogether, the ball was as well organised and carried out as any we have been present at, and Mrs Uira Mahuta is deserving of all praise for having carried out the affair in such an entirely creditable manner