Maori Dances Filmed

The grace and skill of East Coast Maori traditional dances and songs were recorded on colour film recently by the well–known Gisborne photographer, Mr Keith Wade, when the Waihirere Maori Concert Party performed for an hour at the Poho–o–rawiri meeting–house.

Two movie cameras, worked by Mr Wade and Pastor Potter, of the Seventh Day Adventist church, were used, while the sound was recorded by Messrs F. Wise and P. Stevens.

The morning was cold, but the lightly clad Maori maids and men didn't seem to mind. In between "takes'" they enlivened the show with impromptu rock'n'roll dances.

Mary Te Amo Bryan and Enid Bartlett in characteristic pose.

The traditional poi dance was one of the highlights of the performance.

Albert Whaanga, Muriel Wehi, Ani Taihuka, and Bill Kerekere took leading parts in one item

Expressive gestures and facial expressions caught by the camera during spirited item.

The action song, "I Moea".

A happy group: Betty Collier, George Nepe, Mihi Kerekere, Enid Bartlett, Mary Te Amo Bryan, Jane Collier, Marama Taihuka, Pat Kara, Corrie Keenan, Rana Kerekere.

"Six Hits and a Miss"

Possibly the only picture ever taken of "rock'n'roll" in traditional dress

Studying weave of carpet used in film scenes

Pastor Potter changing a film

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The Gisborne Photo News

No 37 : July 25, 1957

Maori Dances Filmed