Record number of Polyfest performers at 2017 eventJohn Hawkins Members of the Otatara Kindy on stage at Polyfest 2017The Southland Polyfest event has hit new heights, with record numbers of performers set to be watched by record numbers of spectators this week. The inaugural one-day Southland Polyfest event in 2009 attracted less than 700 performers from 16 groups who performed cultural song and dance routines on stage. Polyfest features early childhood, primary school, secondary school and community groups who perform cultural song and dance routines in a non-competition environment. Polyfest trust manager Pauline Smith said children got a sense of pride when they performed with one voice on stage. ​The massive growth of the event, while pleasing, has not come without problems for organisers the Murihiku Maori & Pasifika Cultural Trust.

Source: Stuff August 21, 2017 02:26 UTC