Kiwi joker’s words serious stuff
Comedian Mike King was better known for his Maori tongue in cheek - he’s still a funny guy, but now he delivers a serious message.
Nowadays, King redirects his way with words towards the sensitive topic of suicide prevention.
The reformed Kiwi comic and mental health advocate will visit five secondary school’s in the region for the Key To Life, Let’s Talk - Community Korero, from March 8 — 10.
The Rotary Club of New Plymouth West, plays host to the tour with King sharing his experiences with youth from; NP Boys’ High School, Sacred Heart Girls’ College, Francis Douglas Memorial College, Inglewood High School and Spotswood College, in a bid to get his powerful message across.
The club supported the korero in the hopes it would move the community to look around and step up to communicate with others said the clubs Vicki Ingles.
King had visited the Spotswood co-educational school before. Principal Mark Bowden said King had delivered a presentation
‘‘We are a more open society with good people willing to share their story to benefit the kids. Unfortunately sometimes that can be a double-edged sword’’
Mark Bowden
a few years ago and Bowden had been reluctant to agree to the visit. His hesitation stemmed from his personal observation of King in his comedic days.
The school was often approached by people wanting to talk to the kids and tell their story, he said. In theory it was a great way for them to learn, through other people’s experiences.
‘‘We are a more open society with good people willing to share their story to benefit the kids. Unfortunately sometimes that can be a double-edged sword.’’
The school’s ethos included being diverse and inclusive, it currently runs a multiplicity of programmes that provide students with positive reinforcement. For Bowden, it was his responsibility of ensuring his kids were exposed to the right messages, shared in an appropriate and meaningful way.
Perhaps the fact King was booked in to give another korero was a sign the reformed comedian’s previous presentation met the grade.Although ‘‘suicide prevention was the big picture, King doesn’t actively discuss it.’’