The school holiday fun continues at Te Kōputu a te whanga a Toi – Whakatāne Library and Exhibition Centre – next Wednesday 24 July, with musical duo Pacific Curls putting on an exciting and interactive performance for children of all ages to enjoy.

Pacific Curls will be performing several sessions, starting at 10 am in the Sheaff Family Gallery, to celebrate the culmination of Te Wiki o te Reo Māori and Matariki events.

Whakatāne District Council Library Services Team Leader, Tangimeriana Rua, says she is delighted that Pacific Curls will be performing at Te Kōputu. “The expressive and throught-provoking performance of Pacific Curls will provide a fitting tribute to the significance of the recent cultural events,” Ms Rua says. “It’s hard to define the sound of Pacific Curls, but they have pioneered a fusion style of music that seamlessly blends their indigenous roots.

“Kim Halliday draws on her Rotuman/NZ Scottish heritage for inspiration, while Ora Barlow credits her Te Whānau-ā-Apanui/English roots for the duo’s backbeat Pacific rhythms, fiddle playing and evocative Māori instrumentation and lyrics,” she says. “Through stories and music, they customise their performance for people of all ages to enjoy.”

Ms Rua says Pacific Curls, who have previously performed as part of the Whakatāne Summer Arts festival, will be performing at 10:00 am, 10:35 am, 11:15 am, 12:30 pm and 1:15 pm in the Sheaff Family Gallery at Te Kōputu. “Attendance is free and bookings are not required, so  bring the whole family along for a great time at Te Kōputu.”