A concert celebrating Matariki with Dane Moeke and friends
As Aotearoa leans into Matariki becoming a highly anticipated celebration, Kirikiriroa Hamilton already has a favourite on the mid-winter calendar. Fresh off singing the National anthem at the televised Super Rugby Pacific final, Dane Moeke’s next project was his annual Matariki concert. ‘In Good Company’ featured Dane alongside his diverse and talented friend group in a delightful performance that had a warm-hearted atmosphere from the get-go.
Dane is a gracious, generous and non-egotistical performer. From the bare-footed teen who appeared on NZ’s Got Talent to now producing sold out shows, Dane has evolved as a performer with an unmatched voice and a creative producer who pays it forward with opportunities for others.
Anne-Marie Case-Miller was a terrific choice in the role of MC. At home on the Riverlea stage, Anne-Marie’s delivery was warm and engaging. When she along with Fiona Greaves and Heather Connolly reprised their Mamma Mia! roles as Donna and the Dynamos complete with choreography, most of the audience was on their feet dancing and singing along.
A standout performance was given by brothers Trightan and Lee Panui. Soulful and innately talented, they could make a living from playing festivals, weddings, birthdays, the hospo circuit and more. These two should be gigging regularly and sharing their talents with a wider audience.
Dane was joined by some of his best theatre mates – Alex Pelham-Waerea, Iosia Tofilau and Sekonaia Faletau. The quartet’s faultless four-part harmonies, witty choreography and particularly the medley that opened Act Two was impressive and garnered a massive response from the audience.
Ella Veitch, Felix Rowe, Zachary Clarke, Daniel Cruickshank, Justine Allen, and Bobby Howard showcased their immense talents. The next generation of performers also had the opportunity to tread the boards. Their delight at performing alongside Dane and others was infectious. Many of the numbers were performed in Te Reo, and the pronunciation was ka pai.
Simple fine tuning such as appropriate set dressing, refinement of song selection, using head mics for musical theatre numbers, adjustment of the lighting rig and an A5 programme would elevate this annual celebration to the next level.
There are too many people to name but know if you contributed to Dane’s show in any way, you are appreciated. Oh, to have a friend group like Dane has.
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