Day of Diversity on Day Two of the Festival

Day of Diversity on Day Two of the Festival of Colour

On a day when contemporary artists discussed what is or isn’t art, soldiers performed opera and Celtic musicians performed the ultimate tight rhythm section, Wanaka once again revelled in the wonderful diversity that is the Festival of Colour.

The day opened with the Infinity Crystal Palace packed to capacity for Australian Celtic group, Eilean Mòr. Those expecting the lilting melodies of Gaelic Scotland weren’t disappointed but they also found their toes tapping to the upbeat mouth music with more than a hint of the rhythm and blues and drum solos that produced spontaneous applause.

Later in the afternoon, Arts Laureate, John Reynolds and contemporary artist, Michel Tuffery debated But is it art? in a session chaired by festival director Philip Tremewan.

“The session was an enlightening hour that broke down all the usual clap trap about the arts,” said Tremewan. “It was just two artists talking straight from the heart helping us understand how artists tick.”

The New Zealand Army Band demonstrated the range of their talent starting the day playing in Lake Wanaka’s ANZAC Day parade. In the evening they broke all stereotypes with their lively performance to a full house of their own eclectic mix of opera, swing and popular tunes.

Windy City Strugglers wound up the day to another full house with patrons enjoying a night of blues with more than a hint of rock. For more information on the Festival visit www.festivalofcolour.co.nz.

ENDS

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