Hamilton Play

Te Ao Hou, December 1966, Page 28

Hamilton Play Over 2,500 people saw Turongo and Mahinarangi, written and produced by Ron Kilgour, and played for five nights by the Maori club at Fairfield College Hamilton, then performed at Founders Theatre during the Festival of Maori Arts. Pei Te Hurunui's story is followed closely,

A taiaha duel between Whatihua and Turongo, played by Russell Fransham and Puti Rau with chants, songs and pois contributed by Rev. Napi Waaka and Canon Wi Huata being an essential part of the production, helping to tell the story and heighten the drama. The play attempts to blend a well-known gem of Maori historical tradition, a story that appeals to all Maoris, with lively action and traditional songs, dances and pois, so appealing to the average pakeha, and to increase the understanding of both races. For the College pupils the production has become a focal point of solid achievement, and speaks well of things to come. The play begins with an argument between Turongo and Whatihua as to who is the tuakana or elder brother. Whatihua by the artful use of the taiaha knocks his brother to the ground. This is but a forerunner of Turongo's ill fortunes. His snare remains empty while Whatihua displays his skill, and as Act I closes, Ruaputahanga, Turongo's betrothed, is drawn away to Whatihua's marae by trickery, and Turongo's shame is complete. As Act II opens, the carvers at work in Kahotea are interrupted by Turongo's arrival. After his arrival in Hawkes Bay, Turongo displays his prowess with the taiaha His carving skill greatly impresses them. The Chief, Tuaka, relates Turongo's whakapapa to his people and Turongo becomes one with his newly-found tribe. The moonlight scene and songs of declared love leave Turongo with a mystery, but he resolves to ask Tuaka for a bride—the one who adorns herself with Raukawa perfume. So it comes about that the tribes of the East and West Coasts are united by this marriage of Royalty, between Turongo and Tuaka's daughter Mahinarangi. The choir of 40 members was well trained and accompanied by the Rev. Napi Waaka.

National Publicity Studios The Governor-General with Mrs Sage president of the Maori Women's Welfare League