Festival of the Elements

Porirua's annual Waitangi Day celebration of diversity is certainly living up to its mission with this year's schedule of performers. In addition to home-grown Kiwi talent (singer/songwriter Ruia and hip-hop dance group Legacy are headlining), a wide array of overseas cultures have found their way into the programme.

Wellington-based Doorway Dance Theatre will present a contemporary dance influenced by traditional Indian forms. Returning festival favourite Sam Manzanza looks forward to having the crowd on their feet and dancing to his African - and ska-inspired rhythms.

Celia Briar, a popular harpist, will play a soothing selection of Celtic favourites on the small harp. A Maungaraki-based Russian choir will present a programme of traditional songs, and Vox Serbicus, another choir, will be singing a cappella in a traditional Slavic style.

Several types of dance demonstrations and introductory lessons will be offered, including exotic Cuban fusion. The award for the act who travelled farthest to appear at the Festival undoubtedly goes this year to the Yellowhawk family. Jim Yellowhawk of South Dakota and his son, Gabe, will perform traditional dances from the Native American Lakota tribe.

With all these talented groups among many other shows and activities, the Festival of the Elements is an event to attend! It is free to the public.