The Pohutukawa Tree

Produced by Norman McLean, "The Pohutukawa Tree", by Bruce Mason, promises to be good theatre. The cast, from the Boys' and Girls' High Schools, has been in rehearsal for some weeks now and the production appears to be of a high standard. It is due for presentation in the Boys' High Assembly Hall on June 24-5-6. The story is of Maori and European relationships, and the conflict of Christian and traditional Maori beliefs in the mind of the central character, Aroha Matira, played by Tui Maynard.

A poignant moment as Aroha looks to the past. At left is Peter Boshier as the Rev. Sedgwick and, at right, Karen Berry as Queenie.

Dennis Berdinner (right) arrives on stage to complicate matters. From left, in the cast, are Karen Berry, Tui Maynard, Michael Chadwick, Gillian Skyrme, and Claire Hall.

Tui Maynard looks on in disgust at the effects of alcohol on her son, Michael Chadwick. Helping him up is Dennis Berdinner and at right is other leading character Karen Berry.

Also in the play are Andrew Ninness and Phillip Moon

An emotional moment for central players Roger French and Karen Berry.

Kerry White sings for the guests at the wedding reception. From left at the table are Dennis Berdinner, Gillian Skyrme, Steven O'Hagen, Claire Hall, Liz Miller, Andrew Ninness, Roger French and Peter Boshier.

The drama heightens with a confrontation between Roger French (centre) and Aroha (Tui Maynard, seated). Others from left are Karen Berry, Michael Chadwick and Peter Boshier.

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The Gisborne Photo News

No 180 : June 18, 1969

The Pohutukawa Tree