REV. PAPAKURA

Manawatu Herald, Volume XLIV, Issue 2426, 9 May 1922, Page 2 (Supplement)

REV. PAPAKURA

Whom Mr. LOUIS ALSACE has the honour to present, first saw the light of day at Hokianga, about one hundred miles north of Auckland, on January 22nd, 1880.

At the age of fifteen Papakura entered the Three Kings College at Auckland, at which time he could speak very little English. After four years at the above College, he was sent to the South Island as a young Missionary in connection with the Southern Maori Mission. In 1905 he was ordained for the Auckland Maori Mission. About this time a celebrated Italian impressario heard young Papakura sing, advising him to go in for a proper training, which he did. After many years’ connection with the Church he decided to use his talent in the concert field, where his wonderful tenor voice met with immediate recognition.

During the past three years the Rev; Papakura has been appearing in all the principal theatres throughout America, where press and public alike proclaimed him an artist of exceptional ability.

Mr. Alsace, who has been spending the past year in America, heard the Rev. Papakura sing, and engaged him for a tour of New Zealand.

Rev. Papakura has a charming personality, which adds not a little to the pleasure experienced by those fortunate enough to hear his wonderful voice.