What went on at Pao! Pao! Pao! 2006
Posted: 18 November by Toi Maori Aotearoa
Wellington Opera House rocked with so many stars on show, from the superstars of Maori music, Hinewehi, Whirimako and Ruia; to the rising hip hop heroes Legacy.
The appearance of the aerial performers to accompany Toni Huata's new songs was thrilling. Guitar virtuosity by Steve Rangihuna and the surprising Christine White accompanying Hinemoana Baker were further treats alongside the expected stars. The opening with taonga puoro by Rici Bennett, Rewi Spraggon and Justin Kereama and their use in subsequent acts were a fine tribute to Hirini Melbourne.
Hip hop artists 4 Corners from Hamilton were a potent reminder of the tough politics they are known for. Vocalists Mina Ripia and Gabrielle Rikihana of Wai ripped into the lyrics of a Julian Wilcox composition with a ferocity of energy that had the audience breathless.
Wellington Girls High School's 13-year old Megan Glue won first prize in the new Manaaki Tangata composition contest at this year's Maori Music Summit. Megan strode onto the stage with her guitar, accepted the award, presented her mihi in a flawless manner and then opened up with a powerhouse voice.
Dance group Torotoro Nesian Dance opened the first half with a furious-paced dance sequence that had the audience gasping at the frenetic pace. This was only the first of the big dance acts as in the second half, Legacy lifted the roof with their individual brilliance as dancers. These two groups are world-class performers and drew on near heroic storylines that appeared as brief cameos of energy and pounding rhythm.
The show allowed some subdued moments of smouldering heat but these were small periods of respite as wave after wave of stunning artists sauntered to centre stage to make this year's show the best Pao! Pao! Pao! since its beginnings back in Hamilton in 2002.
And how do you maintain the energy in a show over such a long time span? Well, you engage Matai Smith as MC. The changeovers gave no time for rest, with the crowd rising to the constant challenges from Matai as he effortlessly carried the boisterous crowd through five hours of pure bliss.
Roll on Pao! Pao! Pao! 2007 - we can't wait!
2006 line up
Hinewehi Mohi
Ruia
Whirimako Black
DJ Poroufessor
Hinemoana Baker
Tohu
WAI 100%
4 Corners
Kathy Phillips and Ngairo Heretaunga
Toni Huata
Torotoro Nesian Dance
Tuahine
Rewi Spraggon and Riki Bennett
Legacy