Event showcases children’s talents
For months Firth Primary School’s choir has been singing up a storm under the guidance of Lesley Johnston, in preparation for their involvement in the show: Everything is Ka Pai – Kids for Kids.
Along with a number of other Waikato schools, the choir performed at Founders Theatre in Hamilton last Wednesday with Nathan King and Funky Monkey Chris Lam Sam in front of a packed out audience.
Student Georgia Pearce played in the ukulele group on stage and the audience was encouraged to sing along to the classic 10 Guitars.
Principal James Eldridge said the children would have lifelong memories of their experience and thanked Mrs Johnston for her hard work.
Nathan King, former front man of chart topping band Zed, said he had attended a number of the Kids for Kids shows over the last few years and was inspired by the talent, enthusiasm and energy of the school children involved in the show. ‘‘It’s such a great opportunity for young people to learn some of our most well- loved Kiwi songs and to enjoy making music at the same time as making new friends,’’ he said.
‘‘As an ambassador of World Vision, I’ve seen firsthand the incredible work that World Vision does in povertystricken countries and it’s absolutely heartwrenching to see children in crisis but, through the Kids for Kids event, Kiwis can make a difference.’’
Kids for Kids is one of World Vision’s major annual fundraisers in New Zealand.
World Vision chief executive Chris Clarke said since the first Kids for Kids shows were held, more than 250,000 primary and intermediate students had enjoyed being part of a mass choir performing in front of audiences in New Zealand.
‘‘The events also pro- vide an opportunity for Kiwi kids, their families and school communities to make a difference in the lives of children around the globe and are an opportunity for World Vision to talk about the incredible efforts made possible through child sponsorship.’’
Since 1996, Kids for Kids has sponsored 5296 children being through the shows, equating to $8.3 million raised by sponsorship.