NEWS: Manukau Festival Of Arts 2010 Announced

Manukau’s music scene has rightfully gained a reputation as a hotbed of performing talent. This year’s Manukau Festival of Arts brings to you not only some of the best artists in New Zealand right now, but unearths future talents, contemporary classics and even some greats you might not be aware of.

He’s been called one of the biggest Polynesian artists of our time, and he’s coming over to take part in The Mixer Concert. Fiji takes centre stage, and with good reason: he’s been dubbed America’s most successful Pacific Island artist and is the recipient of many awards. Fiji shares the stage with Three Houses Down, Dei Hamo, Cydel, Vince Harder, Sweet ‘n’ Irie, Erakah, Tha Feelstyle and many more.

There’s a treat in store at Mangere Arts Centre - Ngā Tohu o Uenuku on Labour Day Monday. Cydel and The Groovehouse, one of Manukau’s favourite bands, bring their unique blend of R & B, blues and soul to this public holiday.

Southside Gig is one of the biggest youth events in the country, with a who’s who of musical talent involved. This year it becomes bigger and better - spanning two days of urban culture and collaboration. The first day sees musical talent such as J Williams, PNC, David Dallas, Gene Rivers and DJ Sir-Vere set the tone as BBoys, BGirls and Graf artists battle it out. The second day is dedicated to Hip-Hop, with collaboration comps and workshops throughout the day, culminating in a showcase finale with the crews and artists that have proved themselves as the best of the weekend, with a special performance by Vince Harder!

Manukau Symphony Orchestra bring to life Prokoviev’s musical tale “Peter and the Wolf”, with help from New Zealand diva Helen Medlyn and conductor Rupert D’Cruze. An enchanting tale for all ages, the special one-hour performance also includes famous movie themes – from “Lord of the Rings” to “Indiana Jones”.

Uxbridge Music Festival will inspire and entertain listeners with a great line up of acts and activities which appeal to everyone. Howick will be singing throughout the festival – whether it’s at “Intense” youth night, “Make Some Noise” art and music workshop or a performance from Uxbridge’s favourite daughter Julia Mason.

Join international blues guitar sensation Billy TK Jnr and his band for the Otara Bluesfest, as they team up with San Francisco guitarist Robbie Macgregor and his band the Shuffle Hustlers for an evening of incredible music, guitar duels and lots of fun.

And come celebrate Manukau’s vast female musical talent at Otara Music Arts Centre, where Lyrical Sisters sees up and coming performers take to OMAC’s stage to share their vocal, lyrical and song-writing talents – with a special performance from the legendary Yandall Sisters.

Visit www.mfa.org.nz for detailed information regarding this year's festivities.