Amazing variety on show

World on Stage, Regent on Broadway, Palmerston North, Saturday, June 30. Reviewed by Stephen Fisher.

Sometimes, it’s easy to ignore the vibrancy of Palmerston North, but last Saturday’s World on Stage was a true celebration of the amazing spirit and diversity that surrounds us every day. It was brought to our attention by local citizens who took the opportunity to share some of the cultural activities that form part of their colourful backgrounds. With more than 200 languages represented in Palmerston North, it was immediately obvious that this was going to be a night to remember, the lineup guaranteeing satisfaction for each audience member. Therefore, we were treated to an amazing variety of items, with their roots in the Middle East, Africa, Asia, the Pacific Islands, Europe or America, both North and South, all coming together in a colourful array, each celebrating their own traditions with obvious pride, passion and, above all, great joy. The infectious mix was inspirational. With many of the cultures performing on stage represented only by small numbers, locals who were onetime strangers, soon to become friends, have obviously been welcomed to rehearsals and it was inspiring to see the diversity of the various groups. They expressed their various dance styles, many of which have become internationally popular. The first half concluded with an impressive costume parade to the accompaniment of Manawataki, an Afro-inspired drumming ensemble, and the evening ended with Samba Ao Vento leading a joyful audience out of the theatre to continue the salsa party on the Broadway pavement.