World On Stage

The World on Stage was a creative and original event celebrating the rich cultures within the Manawatu and took place on the 29th of May 2010 in the Regent on Broadway in Palmerston North and will take place again September 2012.

Over two hundred people attended a pre dinner show along with invited guests including the Minister of Ethnic Affairs, local mayors and MP’s. Guests then made their way to the Regent to join around 380 others in watching a vibrant, colourful, fast paced, enthusiastic performance by around twenty different cultural groups.

The evening began with a performance from a local Kapahaka group followed by a Japanese drum team from the International Pacific College. Of special note was the spectacular Luminous Dragon dance troupe from Wellington. Other groups who performed were from: Russia, Indonesia, Greece, India, Polish, Scottish, English, Iris, South American, Africa and the Pacific Islands.

The event was directed by Dean Mckerras who has had considerable success with previous productions at the Regent and a world of experience with dance. Dean’s skills and professionalism were very evident on the night with a flawless performance from all throughout.

The event was definitely one of celebration for the cultural diversity in our city and an opportunity to promote understanding and respect for the various cultures represented through the enjoyment of song and dance.

If you are interested in performing in 2012 please contact Anne Odogwu at the Multicultural Centre

Photos courtesy of the Manawatu Standard. Leilani Hatch Photographer