SUCCESSFUL CONCERT

Gisborne Herald, Volume LXVI, Issue 20103, 24 November 1939, Page 8

SUCCESSFUL CONCERT

I HIRUHARAMA CHOIR i DELIGHTFUL ITEMS (Henilil Correspondent.) A most successful concert was held in the Gaiety Theatre, Ruatoria, on Tuesday night, in aid of the Hiruharama Native School’s choir trip to Wellington. This was really a rehearsal of what the children would clo when they visited Wellington early in December to broadcast and make recordings, and also to give performances at the Centennial Exhibition. The hall was packed, and, judging by the sustained enthusiasm, the efforts of the choir were appreciated. The stage had been beautifully decorated by Mrs. J. G. Russell and helpers with the loveliest of roses and greenery, which made a pretty setting. The choir sang numerous songs in English, after which a display of physical training followed. Other items included hakas, the leaders being Ethel Parker and Maggie Ilunia, and Maori action songs and poi dances, the performers in the last-mentioned having been trained by Mrs. Dan Brown. The accompaniments for the drill and waltz poi were played by 'Mrs. A. King, Mrs. P. Tamati and Miss S. Ngarimu. Mesdames F. Ngarimu, L. Parker and D. Kawhia were in charge of the wardrobe of the children.

Mrs. C. K. Williams, who is always a favourite with East Coast audiences, sang many delightful songs, which were enthusiastically received. Mrs. D. Sherriff played Mrs. Williams’ accompaniments, and then sang a Maori song v/ith her.

At the end of the entertainment Mr. A. ( King, the headmaster, thanked those who had given assistance in bringing about the success that had been achieved.

Mr. Arnold Reedy, chairman, on behalf of the committee, thanked the children for their excellent performance, which had entailed a great deal of patience, time and thought on the part of Mr. and Mrs, A. King and their staff. Misses B. Pcnhalluriach and H. Walker and Mr. A. Webster. He specially complimented Mr. King on his fine work in training the choir and obtaining such splendid results. After the concert a most enjoyable dance was held, the music being supplied by the Moonlight Jazz Band. Mr. Rakai Tamati was the M.C. The evening was a financial success, as about £35 was added to the funds, a most gratifying result.