The 2011 Auckland Arts Festival presents:
IHIMAERA, Charlotte Yates Production (NZ)
In this unique concert, twelve of New Zealand’s best contemporary recording artists come together for four very special nights to perform songs inspired by the rare and moving words of iconic Maori writer, Witi Ihimaera.
From King Kapisi to Horomona Horo, Teremoana Rapley to SJD, amazing Kiwi-musos create songs from 12 totally new lyric poems written by Ihimaera, setting his words in a wide range of styles which showcase Ihimaera’s distinctive and powerful evocations of life in Aotearoa and the impressive diversity of New Zealand music.
In its fusion of great literature and outstanding musical talent, Ihimaera is a phenomenal feat of artistry. Linked by narration from star of Outrageous Fortune, Kirk Torrance, and produced by Charlotte Yates, creator of the wonderful Baxter (2000) and Tuwhare (2006), Ihimaera gives the author’s words a new wardrobe of sound.
A special Auckland Arts Festival commission, Ihimaera receives its world-premiere in 2011. A CD of songs from the show is set to be released by Universal Music NZ in February 2011. Artists featured include Lupin (Victoria Girling-Butcher), LA Mitchell, Unitone Hi Fi, Ruia Aperahana, Horomona Horo, King Kapisi, Warren Maxwell, Maisey Rika, The Twinks (Milan Borich and Tim Arnold ex- PLUTO), SJD, Teremoana Rapley and Charlotte Yates.
