Archive for the ‘Guest blogger - Charlotte Yates’ Category

In the late 90s, musician Charlotte Yates, came up with a concept for a CD and then a show about James K Baxter. The concept was simple and inspired. She invited some of New Zealand’s best musicians to put James K Baxter’s poetry to music. The show Baxter incorporated performances with images and words of Baxter’s life. It was a huge success. Then in 2005, Charlotte wrote and directed a similar show that celebrated the poetry and life of Hōne Tūwhare: Tūwhare. The last time Tūwhare was performed, Hōne completely surprised the cast and audience by turning up at the last moment. It was a rare appearance and a precious gift for all who were lucky enough to be present that night! Charlotte shares her memories with Lively…

“There’s a photo on my desk of some of the performers in Tūwhare taken at the Auckland Festival Club after the performance for AKO7 at the Civic Theatre. I’m in the centre of the snap with a grin from ear to ear, Michael Keating, the manager of Goldenhorse, is also smiling beatifically, pointing at the camera, and beside him is Graham Brazier, arms at full stretch. On my other side is Blanche Rawiri, from WAI with another set of pearly whites and beside her is Rawiri Paratene in dark glasses, looking very urbane.

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