Lizzie, Tom, Howie and Rewa join Celebrate 75 cast
An exciting foursome of popular local entertainers has joined the cast appearing at next month’s Celebrate 75 community
variety concert.
Songstress Lizzie Marvelly and quirky reverend Tom Poata will MC the Civic Theatre’s 75th birthday celebration, while
Howard Morrison Jnr and Rewa Ututaonga will be part of the line-up performing at the event.
They join the previously announced ensemble of the Vicki Le Fleming Whitmore Academy of Dancing, Ellis Carrington, The
Edward Brothers, Thermaleles, Sulphur City Square Dance Club, BellyVegas, AMJAZZ, Breakthrew Dance Academy, Anne Samson
School of Ballet, Dance 2 Inspire, Dance Factory NZ and Cook Island dancers and band.
Rotorua Lakes Council performing arts director, Richard Marshall, said the new additions enhance an already stellar
cast, with Rewa Ututaonga opening the event with a stirring rendition of Rotorua’s theme song, Manaakitanga.
“This fantastic line-up of local talent promises the audience a fun and entertaining evening - certainly befitting of
such a significant venue in Rotorua’s history. I encourage locals to come along and join in the birthday celebrations.”
The final performer of the night, Howard Morrison Jnr, said his bracket will take the audience on a trip down Memory
Lane, as he performs a selection of nostalgic songs made popular by his father, the late Sir Howard Morrison. His
five-part harmony group, which features former members of local band Cairo, will also perform a variety of other songs
for the event.
“It’s a great opportunity to be part of the 75 year history of the Civic Theatre, especially given that it’s part of
what is now the Sir Howard Morrison Performing Arts Centre,” he said. “The Civic Theatre is one of Rotorua’s long
standing venues. It’s more than just a building – it’s an icon – and I encourage people to get behind this event and
support our local acts.”
Seats are $40 for the show, with pre-show drinks and canapés tickets also on sale for an additional $55. Tickets can be
purchased from the Ticketmaster box office at the Sir Howard Morrison Performing Arts Centre, or online at ticketmaster.co.nz (booking fees apply).
ENDS