| THE MUSICAL |
TO THE STAGE SHOW SYNOPSIS
'POI-E' AT THE ROYAL GALA PERFORMANCE
This artwork was purchased by Te Papa Tongarewa, The Museum of New Zealand,
from Dalvanius Prime after he had offers from British and American collectors
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In 1982 Maui Dalvanius Prime walked into my home in Tokomaru Bay. On that day I knew our lives would never be the same. I watched my late wife Ngoi once again. She was the tutor, her student wide-eyed and eager to learn about Maoritanga (things Maori). I recall their days and nights together - Kaiako (teacher) and Tauira (student) immersed in their work, oblivious to the existence of anyone else. My beloved wife left this earthly plain the summer of 1985. In the summer of 1994 her dream was realised. I knew then the time they spent together was tspecial'. 'Poi E - The Musical' was staged for the first in its entirety at Patea. I was in the audience that night. I laughed, I cried, I clapped and I cheered. I am proud to have been a part of its evolution and its birth. Most of all, I am proud to have been a part of that special night. For four weeks in 1984 'Poi E' the record was No.1 on the New Zealand pop charts. One nation gathered under one Kaupapa (cause). Tonight 'Poi E - The Musical' has gathered us again under that same kaupapa. 'Poi E - The Musical' is a true story It is about the struggle, the tragedy of rural Aotearoa (New Zealand). It is about real Kiwi (New Zealanders). More than likely its about someone you know, or it could even be about you. E nga mana, e nga reo, e nga waka nga hau e wha. Tena koutou tena koutou katoa. CHAIRMAN 'Poi-E' Cultural Theatre Trust of Performing, Recording, Visual Arts, Crafts and Associated Services. |