Media Release – Wednesday 6 October

T-Minus Ten Days For Manukau Lift Off!

MANUKAU FESTIVAL OF ARTS 2010
October 15th – October 31st 2010

We are only ten days away from the start of the third annual Manukau Festival of Arts 10, bringing together the many diverse theatrical, artistic and musical pursuits of the multicultural talent across Manukau – with highlights this year including:

The highly anticipated Strictly Brown 2 opens the 2010 festival, a one-night-only extravaganza that celebrates local talent, jam-packed with live acts, surprise celebrity guests and tons of giveaways. Starring the sizzling hot Kila Kokonut Krew and supported by Tony T and his smoking band Empty Rooms. This year’s Strictly Brown promises to be bigger, bolder and browner than ever!

Hallowed dance collective Atamira bring their latest work, TAONGA: dust, water, wind to the Genesis Energy Theatre this festival, honouring the life of Rona Williamson –a kuia of Ngai Tahu whanui. Set in the small seaside town of Kaka Point, audiences are submerged into a magical landscape where bodies inhabit a world of seaweed and stone, where a fantail echoes death, and the moon guides the young heroine and her aunt through the struggles and phases of their life.

A glitzy evening affair celebrating originality and innovation, Villa Maria Cult-Couture 2010 is Manukau’s premier fashion event. Be taken to fantastical places by this year’s show, with special performances by artists including J Williams, Annie Crummer and ReQuest.

He’s been called one of the biggest Polynesian artists of our time, and he’s coming over to take part in The Mixer Concert. Honolulu native Fiji takes centre stage, and with good reason: he’s been dubbed America’s most successful Pacific Island artist and the recipient of many awards. Fiji shares the stage with Three Houses Down, Dei Hamo, Cydel and the Groovehouse, Vince Harder, Sweet ‘n’ Irie, Erakah, Tha Feelstyle and many, many more.

Southside Gig last year was one of the biggest youth events in the country, with a who’s who of musical talent involved. This year it becomes bigger and better - spanning two days of urban culture and collaboration. Day 1 sees musical talent such as J Williams, PNC, David Dallas and DJ Sir-Vere set the tone as BBoys and BGirls battle it out. Day 2 is dedicated to Hip-Hop, with collaborations and workshops throughout the day, culminating in a showcase finale with the crews and artists that have proved themselves as the best of the weekend, with a special performance by Vince Harder!

A home-grown classic in the making, James Nokise’s The Minister’s Son, deals with topics relevant to today’s audiences, as he brings to the stage 1980’s multicultural Wellington in this critically acclaimed piece.

And of course, what festival would be complete without Billy T award winner Mike Loader’s Southside Comedy, with special guest Mike King. 50 of the country’s best comedians have stormed the stage at the Genesis Theatre at South Auckland’s premiere comedy show, and it’s a chance for young adults to experience NZ comedy outside of a bar environment – making it the perfect start to the weekend!

Visit www.mfa.org.nz for detailed information regarding this year's festivities and booking information for these events and more.

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