The Unity Concert was held in front of a full house of nearly 1200 people on March 18 at the Due Drop Events centre in Manukau.
Two hundred and fifty six performers from eight different cultures performed in what was a wonderful celebration of diversity, with all student performers showing their pride and joy in representing their cultures.
The evening was opened by Brooklyn Smith-Boyd and Bailey Nagel – the Kapa Haka leaders. Kapa haka were unable to be part of the performances at Unity this year because of their concentration on their 1st Division competition to be held at the same venue in less than two weeks, However, senior members of Kapa Haka came to assist and support all the groups.
First up was the Tongan group performing the traditional Ma’ulu’ulu, followed by the seniors spirited performance of Otu Motu. Mention must be made of the glorious costumes lovingly decorated by a passionate group of parents.
Next up, the new African group delighted the audience with a demonstration of some of the many traditional dances of Ethiopia.
This was followed by the glorious Cook Island group, again stunningly costumed and performing with energy and pride.
Another group that is new to the Unity concert was the Sri Lankan group who introduced dances from both Sinhalese and Tamil cultures.
And welcome back to Unity to the Niuean group, who delighted with a boys Takalo (call to war), joined by the girls Tau Fuata and Fiti Lagakali.
The next item was a stunning performance by members of the Chinese group, who entertained with a medley of traditional and modern dances.
The always polished and disciplined Samoan group lead by ex-student Tali Meavale was a favourite as always with the audience.
The evening was closed out by a vibrant and energetic performance by the MAGS Indian group.
Director of Cocurricular Ms Cesan said, “Thanks to the many parents and families that came to support, as audience members and helping to get the students ready, and to the staff and students who gave up their time and expertise to help all the students give this wonderful display of Unity.
