Performing artists to donate talent to show

Professional performing artists from Ka¯ piti have gifted their time and talents to support the development of the new Ka¯ piti Performing Arts Centre.

They will take part in the inaugural Beat the Blues concert at The Waterfront Bar and Kitchen, Raumati Beach, on Saturday evening September 7.

Hosted by crowd favourite Fergus Aitken, the gig will showcase the coast’s best talent in Latin, funk, swing and the blues.

Headline acts include the legendary Wayne Mason with Andrew and Kirsten London, Paeka¯ ka¯ riki reggae soul masters Tu¯ Tilley and The FeN˜ a Latino Combo who bring an authentic tour d’force of rock, jazz and traditional Spanish and Brazilian sounds.

Mr London said the group was delighted to be able to help out with fundraising efforts for the performing arts centre, which is under construction on Raumati Rd.

“It’s going to be an incredible asset for the whole region and will not only encourage national and international artists to perform here on the coast, but more importantly, help to nurture young people into the performing arts generally.

“Our hats are off to all the good people who have helped with this initiative and we’re really thrilled to be part of the project.”

Concert organiser Fiona Gunter-Firth was honoured to have high calibre artists on board for the fundraiser, which will contribute to the final development phase.

“The fact that these top artists have agreed to support us shows how excited they all are about having a flagship centre for performing arts in Ka¯ piti.

“The line-up promises to be a great night’s entertainment — the ideal way to catch up with friends, dust off your dancing shoes and say goodbye to winter while supporting the new centre.”

Limited tickets are available at $30 plus booking fee from Eventfinder.