MAORI ENTERTAINERS.

Manawatu Standard, Volume XLIX, Issue 245, 14 September 1929, Page 10

MAORI ENTERTAINERS.

Palmerston North is to have a unique opportunity of witnessing a fascinating display of Maori art and culture on Tuesday next in the Opera House. Such an event is very rare at the present time, and a demonstration, depicting the neolithic primitive culture of the Polynesian, will be admirably rendered by a group of young Maoris, selected from almost every tribe in New Zealand. The vivid memories and glories of a former lifo will be brought once more before our notice; the plaintive, dirge-like "powhiri” or welcome, sung in the minor key by the maidens adorned in their multi-coloured “Korowais,” their flaxen “piu-pius” and hei-tikis, will add dignity to the grand opening. The Maori will be heard in his harmonious and dulcet folk songs; seen in his rhythmic poi dances, and a demonstration of the virile barbaric “iiaka” or war-dance will add zest and vim to a most joyous and delightful evening’s entertainment. The performers, who have been making a successful tour of both Islands, held a special demonstration in Wellington’s Town Hall, when a vast audience witnessed perhaps one of the most picturesque and spectacular displays. Rev. A. J. Seamer ,who is superintendent of the Methodist Maori Mission in New Zealand, is in charge of this young party. A happy and altogether striking feature of Maori missions is that there are no barriers. The churches are united in their efforts to carry the Maori across the tumultuous difficulties that have eventuated due to the change of culture and civilisation. The proceeds are for the worthy purpose of giving financial assistance to the children’s work in the Waikato and King Country. See advertisement on page 1.