Waitangi Rehearsals Get Under Way

Northern Advocate, 26 January 1940, Page 7

Waitangi Rehearsals Get Under Way

KAIKOHE, This Day. “Both pakeha and Maori characters are entering into the spirit of Waitangi.” The Dominion Director of Pageantry (Mr W. S. Wauchop) made this statement to the ’‘Advocate” on Thursday evening upon his arrival at Waitangi from Wellington. He intends to reside in one of the recently erected houses on the Waitangi Estate, which are to be used by the official party during the pageant.

"One combined rehearsal has already been held at Kaikohe,” he said, “and it shaped very well, considering that it was the first of a series of rehearsals."

Continuing, Mr Wauchop stated that on Friday evening another rehearsal is to be held in the Waimate North hall. The first rehearsals at Waitangi should take place next week. Maori Characters. “I hope to have the principal Maori characters camped at Waitangi next week,” Mr Wauchop stated, “and the remainder will arrive at Waitangi a few days prior to the function. “AH the Maoris taking the parts of chiefs at the pageant are actual descendants of the men they represent. “The Rev. Canon W. G. Williams, of Napier, is taking the part of his greatgrandfather, the Rev. Henry Williams,” he said. Speaking of the numerous costumes to be used, Mr Wauchop said that the wardrobe was practically complete, and the wardrobe mistress, Miss Molly Cook, of Wellington, was to bring up the few remaining costumes next week.

Russell Carnival

Mr Wauchop is to assist in the production of the Russell pageant on Monday next. He has brought a wide range of costumes for the Russell ceremony from Wellington. “It will be a great show for Russell,” he concluded.