MAORI CONCERT PARTY.

Manawatu Standard, Volume XLIX, Issue 269, 12 October 1929, Page 2

MAORI CONCERT PARTY.

VISIT TO WHAKARONGO. Now thirty-five years old, the Maori Roman Catholic Church of Kai Iwi at Kauwhata, is now somewhat in need of repairs, and to raise funds for this purpose a Maori concert party has been touring the district, meeting with marked success at every performance. .Last night, a varied and enjoyable programme was given at Whakarongo before a good audience. Vocal, instrumental and native dance items proved popular with those who attended and revealed a' high standard of artistry. Two prominent vocalists were Miss Wereta and Mr W. Ward. The former was ono of the leading members of a Maori mission party until she severed her connection lvith it. Mr t Ward, in addition to a fine singing voice, possesses the gift of yodelling, an accomplishment not common. As instrumentalists, the party, particularly the male members, showed proficiency. Stringed instruments were their forte. Pois and hakas are an essential part of any Maori programme and were well rendered last evening. It is worthy of note that not all the members of the party were Roman Catholics, other denominations helping in the effort Under the direction of the manager, Mr P. Graham, and Mr K. McBrearty, the following programme was given:—Pianoforte soio, Miss Wereta; song, Mr W. Ward; poi danco, ladies of the party; comic duet, Messrs Knowles and Ward; song, Miss Wereta ; haka, instrumental quartette; song, Miss K. Mcßrearty; chorus, “E pari ra”; song, Mr Meta Hori; recitation, Miss Lewis; song, Mr Knowles; comic duet, Messrs Knowles and Ward ; “Waiata Poi,” Mr Ward and poi girls; song, Mr Meta Hori; comic duet, Messrs Knowles and Ward; instrumental trio; ballet; haka, song, Miss Wereta; song, Mr Ward; duet, Miss Wereta and Mr Graham; farewell chorus. At the conclusion of the concert the floor was cleared and dancing was indulged in to tuneful music supplied by the Maori jazz orchestra.