MAORI ENTERTAINERS.

Kaipara and Waitemata Echo, 2 May 1918, Page 3

MAORI ENTERTAINERS.

THEIR FIRST CONCERT IN

HELENSVILLE

ON Wednesday evening, April 24, the Lyric Theatre was crowded to overflowing, to hear the Maori Entertainers, which talented company has just recently been formed, and shortly intend to travel the surrounding district. On account of a number of people being unable to gain admission, the management has promised to give another concert in Helensville (date to be fixed later), and a superior programme ■will be billed. The programme was a rather lengthy one, and on account of the many encores several of the important items had to be dis~ pensed with. Several of the performers were absent, owing to deaths having occurred among their relatives at Batley. Nia Hira, in his rag-time singing, was very amusing and his items were greatly appreciated. The performances by the haaka boys made a great hit, and caused roars of laughter. The singing of Mrs Po Waata in a fine selection of patriotic songs, was loudly applauded. A fine exhibition of manual exercises, performed by five Maori girls (Haupai Hira, Hope Davis, Po Waata, and Kate Hira) was perfectly executed, and the instructress, Mrs March, is to be congratulated on the achievement. Te Pa and Paul were in fine form with their jokes and wit and were considered funny in the extreme. Mrs Corie Watene and Mollie Williams sang very sweetly in their sentimental songs. The Poi Dance by several Maori girls was worthy of special mention, and the singing both in Maori, and English was delightful. The takings amounted to £36 8s sd, and after paying expenses the balance was divided between the Red Cross and School Swimming Bath funds.